Hand Creams: Five of the Best
Being cursed with perpetually parched paws, I have become something of a hand cream connoisseur and the following all pass the revitalization test following those busy times when I’ve neglected to nourish.
L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
Suited to very dehydrated skin, this is one of the most intensive solutions for dry hands and one that works well left on overnight under cotton gloves. It is 20% shea butter with honey and almond extract that can be detected in its gorgeous scent.
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Intensive Moisturising Hand Treatment
A variation of Arden’s legendary Eight Hour Cream, this contains the same healing properties and is similarly soothing and long-lasting. Ideal for weather-exposed/sunburned skin, but hands feel a bit tacky following application, so best applied before bed.
Chanel Nourishing and Rejuvenating Hand Cream
Chanel’s hand cream has been an enduring favourite of mine since a friend gave it to me many moons ago for Christmas. Not only is it super effective, I enjoy seeing that iconic label sitting on my desk, serving as a reminder to apply. Feather light, I find it soaks in immediately leaving no greasy residue, just a subtle, waxy protective layer and younger looking skin. Its scent is equally light - a pleasant, fresh fragrance that is barely detectable following application.
La Mer The Hand Treatment
Consistent with other La Mer products, this is the more expensive choice, but it contains the sea kelp Miracle Broth™ that is at the heart of all their products and seems to be very effective. My hands immediately appear more youthful following application and feel velvety to the touch for hours afterwards.
MV Hand Rescue
Aptly named, MV’s Hand Rescue does exactly that - when I have been out in the elements having forgotten the gloves, this wonder cream instantly softens and restores my reptilian skin, with a subtle and delicious fruity-floral scent. Sandalwood, tangerine and rosehip oils combine with other organic ingredients known for their soothing and nourishing properties. As with all MV products, it is super effective and contains no nasties, which is why we’ve voted it Top of the Fox. (See our May feature on the MV brand.)
