So here’s what happened.
I had every intention of sharing my winter skincare routine this week. Then, I broke beauty editor rule numero uno and started testing new products in 10-degree weather when my skin is at its most sensitive…have I learned nothing??? Naturally, breakouts and irritation ensued. So I’m going back to my trusted favorites (to be shared soon, once my skin hopefully calms back down).
Instead, I thought I would share recs for something more reliable: hand creams. It’s been a highly requested item from friends, so I thought I’d share some faves, no matter what you’re looking for. Apply regularly and generously.
My go-to: Grown Alchemist Restorative Hand Cream
Perfect consistency, perfect amount of hydration, not too fragranced. Just a great staple hand cream to have on, well, hand.
Best fragrances: Salt & Stone Hand Cream
Salt & Stone’s formula feels luxe and giftable (hence its appearance in my not-a-V-day gift guide). All five fragrances are lovely and you can’t go wrong, plus the hand cream itself is lightweight and full of good ingredients like niacinamide and squalane.
Best cheapie: Trader Joe’s Ultra Moisturizing Hand Cream (in stores only)
The only flaw with this hand cream is that you can’t order it online unless you overpay on eBay or something. Just a really good, simple, $5(!!) formula available at your local TJs. Buy it!
Best ultra-rich: Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Hand Treatment
The OG Eight Hour Cream is a great “everything” product for lips, cuticles, elbows, etc. but it can be sticky and has a medicinal scent. (Also, I can’t not think about Prince Harry’s “todger” every time I use it…) This hand treatment has similar benefits but without the greasy feel and a much lighter scent.
Best cuticle cream: Paume Cuticle & Nail Cream
This hand-focused brand’s cuticle cream seriously does wonders to shredded nail beds, and fast. The tube is quite small (.75 oz) so it’s a good one to keep in your purse or by your desk for instant soothing.
Best overnight treatment: Soft Services Theraplush Overnight Repair Treatment
If you’re looking for something that’s hand cream+, this treatment (refillable, and housed in discreet, chic airless packaging) also has retinol to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, plus panthenol to strengthen nails. Skip if you’re sensitive or want something super-simple.
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Important journalism during these trying times!
Love a good hand cream! My favourite is Aesop’s Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm