Skin is the largest organ of the human body, and the skin of the hands is perhaps the most used part of that organ. Hands are subjected to frequent immersion in water, which depletes the skin of moisture. Hands may come in contact with harsh chemicals, such as nail polish removers and household cleaners. The skin of the hands may not be protected from the sun, causing aging and discoloration. Hands may be the truest indicator of age visible on the body.
One thing that can be done to minimize the damage done to hands is to apply hand cream. Hand cream is a moisturizer. It does not add moisture to depleted skin but it traps in moisture to soften and protect the skin. But hand lotions should not be confused with hand creams.
Hand creams and hand lotions may have the same ingredients, but in different proportions. Both are a mixture of ingredients and both are either water-in-oil or oil-in-water. Creams are viscous; lotions have more water and a liquid consistency.
This difference, the proportion of water-in-oil or oil-in-water, is the reason some creams and lotions feel greasier than others. In fact, some hand cream water-in-oil proportions may be so heavily weighted towards the oil that they may be considered ointments.
The thicker or more viscous the hand cream, the less often it needs to be applied. However, this means the cream will feel greasy and can interfere with everyday activities. These creams may be more suitable for bedtime, maybe covered with cotton gloves.
Lotions are more liquid and feel cool and refreshing to the skin. However, they don't have the same protective qualities as products with more oil. They will need to be applied more often than creams.
Whether you choose a thick cream or a soothing lotion, all hand moisturizers need to be applied after ever hand washing. Washing not only removes the cream or lotion but it depletes the skin of moisture. Reapplication will hold the moisture in.
What to Look for
If your hands are very dry, look for a cream that has oil as the second or third ingredient. Fragrances and alcohol should be in the middle or towards the end of the list of ingredients.
Lotions are a good choice to use when away from home. They will not have the same protective effect as creams, but they will not interfere with daily activities.
Common Pitfalls
Good hand creams and lotions are not necessarily expensive. Plain petrolatum is an excellent overnight hand cream and can be found easily and at little cost.
Fragrances do not add to the value of hand moisturizers and may, in fact, contribute to skin dryness.
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