Hand Creams & Lotions

Hand creams and lotions can help relieve dry and chapped hands. Creams and lotions have many similar qualities; they can hydrate and help smooth skin. The difference between lotions and creams depends on how much oil and water the product contains. Creams are usually half oil and half water. Lotions usually have less oil and more water, giving them a consistency ranging from thick to thin.

Handwashing

Germs aren't all you get rid of during handwashing. Soap and vigorous scrubbing can wash away your skin's natural oils, decreasing your skin's ability to retain moisture and leaving you with dry hands. Hand cream can help reduce symptoms caused by washing hands.Using cream after handwashing can help your skin retain more moisture. You also can use lotion, but it might not be as effective because it has less oil.

Sun Protection

Many lotions and creams include sunscreen to prevent sun damage and premature aging of your hands. Creams and lotions have varying levels of SPF protection, so choose a level that is appropriate for your skin tone and sun exposure.

Anti-Aging Products

If your hands are showing their years, both creams and lotions can reduce signs of aging. Besides moisturizing ingredients such as vitamin E and aloe, they can contain ingredients that can improve the look of aged skin. These anti-aging ingredients can include retinol, which can reduce the severity of wrinkles; collagen, which can improve the elasticity of skin; and alpha or beta hydroxyl, which loosens and removes dead skin.

Climate Changes

Climate can be a factor choosing a cream or a lotion. If the weather is cold, it usually means humidity is low and your furnace is blowing dry, warm air that can reduce skin's moisture. Hand creams usually work better in these conditions because they hold in more moisture. In the hot and humid summer months, a lighter moisturizer such as hand lotion might be more appropriate.

Sensitive Skin

Scented hand creams and lotions can be appealing, with their array of charming smells. But if you have sensitive skin, they might be contributing to your problem instead of helping it. Chemicals used to add fragrance can irritate sensitive skin. If you have delicate skin, try a non-scented or hypoallergenic cream or lotion.