Skip to main content

Top 11 Best Hand Creams for Dry Skin

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedOctober 23, 2024

It is common for hands to become dry and cracked, especially during the winter time. Hand creams are commonplace nowadays, but the best hand cream for dry skin may be difficult to find. It is important to note that not all hand creams are the same, and some may even be detrimental to your skin.

To find out which hand creams are the most moisturizing and non-greasy, we had to read through articles and apply several hand creams for many hours. In the next section of this article, we will provide you with our recommendations for the best hand cream for dry skin.

Top 3 Best Hand Creams for Dry Skin

  1. CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream
  2. Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream
  3. Ancient Greek Remedy Hand Cream

We have reviewed a number of hand creams and our team has come up with the best creams in the market. It does not matter whether you have cracked, chapped, or rough skin; we have got the best solutions for you. Scan through the list below for the best hand cream for you.


CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream

Editor's Choice

CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream

CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream is a non-greasy, fast-penetrating gem in the world of hand creams. It is enriched with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to serve your skin right. While others may experience a mild tingling sensation at first, that is not long-lasting. It is slightly less pronounced than expected, but it is skillfully able to save dry hands. Sink into this non-scented wonder to refresh and protect your skin.

See price on Amazon

If you are in search of a hand cream to avoid any fragrance that is capable of interacting with your skin and insulting it, CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream is ideal for you since it’s fragrance free and provides the skin with essential ceramides to restore its protective barrier to a healthy state.

Pros

  • Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula
  • Contains essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to moisturize and protect skin
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association

Cons

  • Some users may experience a burning sensation upon initial use
  • Texture is thinner than expected for a cream
  • Moisturizing effect may not last as long as other products

It’s not greasy and it gets absorbed quickly, so you can apply it and go about your business without making everything you come across greasy. In addition, it has ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that is useful in maintaining skin moisture and barrier.

Another thing that should be noted is that the first few times you use it, you may feel a burning sensation. Although, this often clears up after a few uses of the product. Also, the cream has a lighter texture compared to a normal cream but it works well to heal dry, cracked hands.


Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream

Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream

See price on Amazon

For those who need a hand cream that can restore the skin and give the hands and fingers the necessary hydration, you should pay attention to Eucerin’s Advanced Repair Hand Cream.

Pros

  • Formulated with ceramide-3, natural moisturizing factors, and nourishing shea butter
  • Non-greasy, fast-absorbing, fragrance, and dye-free
  • Noticeably smoother hands after just one use

Cons

  • The odor is not offensive, but it might not be pleasant for some people
  • Might not be suitable for people with very sensitive skin
  • The packaging might be a bit bulky for some people

The formula is enriched with ceramide 3, natural moisturizing factors, and nourishing shea butter that effectively repairs damaged skin and locks in moisture.

When used for the first time, we realized that our hands looked smoother and felt softer than before. It felt much softer and the skin was no longer tight or dry any where I had applied the cream .

Another thing that caught our attention regarding this hand cream is that it does not leave the skin oily and it dries very quickly. It is also free from fragrance and dyes to accommodate individuals with sensitive skin.

The only thing that we detected was a smell when first applying the cream. It is not vulgar, but perhaps the sight of it may not be appealing to some of the people. Also, in case you have extremely sensitive skin, then you will not benefit from this hand cream.


Ancient Greek Remedy Hand Cream

Ancient Greek Remedy Hand Cream

See price on Amazon

This hand cream is a good choice if you want to soften your hands with an organic hand cream for hand massage.

Pros

  • Made with organic ingredients
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Suitable for both men and women

Cons

  • Strong scent
  • May not be suitable for extremely dry skin
  • A bit pricey

The cream is made from organic ingredients such as almond oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil and did not leave our hands oily as expected but moisturized. It is easily absorbed into the skin and does not feel oily or greasy and this is advantageous.

The only possible drawback is that the odor is quite intensive, and not everybody, perhaps, will like it. However, if the skin is very dry, it may be necessary to apply the cream more often than once a day. Lastly, the price of the product is slightly higher than that of other hand creams in the market.


O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream

O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream

See price on Amazon

As for the best hand cream to apply on the dry skin, O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream is exactly what you need.

Pros

  • Concentrated formula that heals, relieves, soothes and repairs extremely dry, cracked hands
  • Creates a protective layer on the skin's surface that locks in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated
  • Provides guaranteed relief, making a difference you will feel within days

Cons

  • May leave a slightly greasy feeling on your hands
  • Unscented formula may not be suitable for those who prefer scented products
  • May not work as effectively on severely damaged skin

The high concentration of the cream makes it ideal for use on very dry and broken skin on the hands and the formation of a barrier that prevents the skin from drying out.

Another great feature about this hand cream is that it comes with an assurance of relief. You will begin to feel the difference within the first few days of using it and your hands will be soft, smooth, and moist. It is also hypoallergenic, appropriate for diabetic patients, and available in a portable little jar.

All in all, the formula is formulated without any fragrance; however, it has a slightly greasy feel to it. Secondly, it may not be as effective for severely damaged skin.


Vaseline Hand Cream for Dry Skin

Vaseline Hand Cream for Dry Skin

See price on Amazon

For those in search of a reliable and effective hand cream for dry skin, Vaseline Hand Cream for Dry Skin may be the solution. The lotion is cheap and easily accessible, and users have reported good results with its usage.

Pros

  • This non-greasy formula locks in moisture for up to 48 hours, preventing dryness and leaving your hands feeling soft and smooth.
  • The lotion contains ultra-hydrating lipids and Aloe Vera extract, which soothe and refresh dehydrated skin.
  • The unscented, dermatologist-tested body lotion features Vaseline Jelly and other nourishing ingredients, which can help repair extremely dry skin.

Cons

  • Some users may find the lotion a bit too thick, which can make it difficult to apply.
  • The packaging is not travel-friendly, as the tube is quite large and may not fit in smaller bags.
  • The lotion may leave a slightly greasy residue on the skin, which can be a bit uncomfortable for some people.

As much as we have used Vaseline Hand Cream for Dry Skin, we can confidently recommend it to anyone who has a problem having dry and cracked hands. The formula is not strong and can be used daily; after the application of the lotion, the hands do not remain greasy anymore. Nourishing ingredients such as Aloe Vera extract makes this lotion gentle on the skin and it is especially suitable for people with sensitive skin.


L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: Nourishes Very Dry Hands, Protects Skin, With 20% Organic Shea Butter, Vegan 1 Ounce (Pack of 1)

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: Nourishes Very Dry Hands, Protects Skin, With 20% Organic Shea Butter, Vegan 1 Ounce (Pack of 1)

See price on Amazon

If you are seeking a hand cream that will moisturize your hands, then L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream is the one that will suit you. It is slightly costlier than some other hand creams in the market but we believe that the quality of the product is worth the price.

Pros

  • Absorbs quickly into the skin
  • Keeps hands moisturized for a long time
  • Does not cause skin irritation

Cons

  • Strong baby powder scent
  • A little oily at first
  • Expensive compared to other hand creams

The cream penetrates into the skin easily, and it does not feel sticky or oily after it has been applied.

Now one of the things that we disliked about this hand cream is that it has a very strong baby powder fragrance. Although some people might like this smell, we feel it is too strong and we would like a less intense smell.

Another minor drawback of this cream is that it leaves an oily layer at the first touch of the skin. But this feeling disappears after a few minutes when the cream is already absorbed in the skin.


Amazon Basics Ultra Moisturizing Skin Cream

Amazon Basics Ultra Moisturizing Skin Cream

See price on Amazon

If you are in search of an affordable yet effective hand cream to use when your skin is dry, then you should consider using the Amazon Basics Ultra Moisturizing Skin Cream.

Pros

  • Provides deep hydration to dry and sensitive skin
  • Fragrance-free and gentle on the skin
  • Affordable price point

Cons

  • May take some time to fully absorb into the skin
  • Packaging may vary from images shown
  • Some users may prefer a cream with a stronger scent

This cream has been tested by dermatologist and it does not contain any fragrance, thus can be used by people with sensitive skin or allergies.

Another aspect of this cream that users will appreciate is the cost of the product. Although it is affordable, it works well and keeps the skin moisturized for an extended period.

Although it may take some time for the cream to penetrate the skin, there was no oily feel or accomplishment left behind. The packing could be different from what is depicted here, but the quality of the cream remains the same.


Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream

Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream

See price on Amazon

For fragrance-free hand creams recommended for skin relief and containing intense moisture, Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream is highly recommended.

Pros

  • Locks in 24 hours of intense moisture
  • Forms a protective barrier against the elements
  • Fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with very sensitive skin
  • Some users may find the formula too thick and heavy
  • May leave a slight residue on the skin

This moisturizing hand cream is enriched with nourishing Prebiotic Oat that helps to nourish and calm extremely dry skin. Moreover, the product has been clinically endorsed as it offers 24-hour hydration and helps to create a shield against the harsh environment. It is recommended for daily use since it is fast-absorbing and non-greasy.

On the whole, the Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream is perfect for incorporation into a daily skincare regimen. It is from a brand that dermatologists recommend, and the company has been in business for more than 70 years. It is fragrance-free, non-acnegenic, hypoallergenic, and has no parabens, sulfates, or dyes that may be irritating to the skin.


Curél Extreme Dry Hand Dryness Relief

Curél Extreme Dry Hand Dryness Relief

See price on Amazon

For a hand cream that will help provide relief in the long-run when you suffer from extremely dry hands, there is Curél Extreme Dry Hand Dryness Relief.

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting dryness protection for up to 24 hours
  • Non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly
  • Perfect travel size hand lotion that'll go with you where you go

Cons

  • May not work for everyone
  • Some may find the scent too strong
  • May leave a residue on hands

The formula is calm and not abrasive which is ideal for individuals with sensitive skin types. It’s nice that it doesn’t have a scent and is recommended by dermatologists, so we can use it frequently.

Another advantage of this hand cream is that it protects skin for 24 hours from dryness and even during washing of hands many times. This is particularly true for those who wash their hands more often or are employed in occupations where hand washing is a common practice.

Another advantage is that it is non-greasy which means that the cream penetrates the skin fast and does not leave hands oily. We also like that it has Vitamin E and Monoi Oil, our hands feel so soft after using it.

This travel size is portable, and we like that it can be carried around with ease depending on where we are going. It can be easily stored in a purse, backpack, or even in a car due to its small size.

Compared to other products, this hand cream is not universal, but we like it for its ability to combat dry skin due to the use of hand sanitizers.


Gold Bond Diabetics' Dry Skin Relief Hand Cream, 2.4 oz., With Aloe to Moisturize & Soothe

Gold Bond Diabetics' Dry Skin Relief Hand Cream, 2.4 oz., With Aloe to Moisturize & Soothe

See price on Amazon

If you need a hand cream for the treatment of dry skin, Gold Bond Diabetics’ Dry Skin Relief Hand Cream is recommended.

Pros

  • This hand cream is specially formulated for diabetics' dry skin and contains seven intensive moisturizers and aloe to hydrate and soothe skin.
  • Nine out of 10 people with diabetes saw noticeable skin improvement within one hour of using this hand cream.
  • It's dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.

Cons

  • The 2.4-oz. bottle may not last long if you use it frequently.
  • Some users may find it to be slightly greasy.
  • It may not be the most affordable hand cream on the market.

It also takes a short time before this hand cream starts to work on the skin and make it smooth. It is especially great for those individuals with diabetes because such people are likely to experience dry skin. The formula is mild and unscented, so the product is suitable for daily use by people with sensitive skin.

We came to realize that after applying this hand cream, the texture and skin appearance were much better. It felt more slippery and smoother on the skin and the moisturizer lasted longer on my skin. However, the price of this hand cream is a bit higher as compared to other hand creams, but in our opinion, the quality of this product justifies the price.


O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream and Night Treatment Hand Cream

O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream and Night Treatment Hand Cream

See price on Amazon

If you are seeking for a hand cream that can cure, soothe, and restore rough, chapped hands O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream and Night Treatment Hand Cream could suit you. According to its claims, it is a hand cream for extra dry skin that works instantly and provides a noticeable improvement within days. Also, thanks to the 100% money-back guarantee, you can try it absolutely safely.

Pros

  • Creates a protective layer on the skin's surface that locks in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated.
  • The formula absorbs quickly to reveal noticeably smoother and softer hands.
  • Provides intense moisturization for even the driest hands.

Cons

  • The night treatment cream might be too greasy for some users.
  • The cream might not be suitable for people with sensitive skin.
  • The scent might not be appealing to some users.

The cream immediately replenishes the skin with moisture, stimulates the skin to produce more moisture and forms a thin layer on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss. In general, our hands are silky smooth, and our skin does not look chapped and scaly as it used to before.

The night treatment cream is an over-night treatment that penetrates the skin and makes the skin glowing within a single night. It is used before going to bed and one wakes up with very soft and silky hands in the morning. The formula comprises of profound conditioning oils that assist in restoring and treating dry and brittle hands.

Buying Guide

If you are in a hurry looking for the best hand cream for dry skin, the following factors will help you find the right product to buy. Here are some factors to look for when shopping for a hand cream:

Ingredients

The composition of a hand cream plays a vital role in the effectiveness of the product. Some of the things that you should consider when choosing creams include shea butter, glycerin, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. These ingredients will assist in retaining moisture and give your skin the ability to stay moisturized for many hours. Do not use creams that contain alcohol or fragrances because they can dry your skin and make it even more irritable.

Texture

Another thing that matters when it comes to a hand cream is its texture. If the creams are thick then they leave a greasy feel on the palm and if the creams are thin then they do not offer enough moisture. The creams should be of a non-greasy, light consistency that penetrates the skin quickly.

SPF Protection

If you are frequently exposed to the sun it is preferable that you select a hand cream that has sun protection feature. This will assist in preventing your skin from the effects of the sun such as drying up and early signs of aging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hand cream for extremely dry skin?

For very dry hands, we suggest using a hand cream with emollient ingredients such as shea butter, glycerine and ceramides. The top hand creams for very dry skin include Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream, and Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream.

Which hand cream is recommended by dermatologists for dry hands?

According to dermatologists, the best hand cream is CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream. This hand cream has ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide that work together to repair the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss.

What are the top 10 hand creams for dry skin?

There are many great hand creams for dry skin, but some of the top 10 include:

  1. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
  2. O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream
  3. Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream
  4. CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream
  5. Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Hand Cream
  6. Burt's Bees Almond & Milk Hand Cream
  7. L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
  8. Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve
  9. Crabtree & Evelyn Gardeners Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy
  10. The Body Shop Hemp Hand Protector

What is the best luxury hand cream for dry hands?

For those who are in search of a hand cream that would be more on the premium side and is especially great for dry hands, the La Mer The Hand Treatment is quite good to try. This hand cream contains La Mer’s Miracle Broth, shea butter and glycerin that help to soothe and nourish the skin.

Which hand cream has the best scent for dry skin?

If you need a product with a pleasant smell for dry hands, you should try L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream. This hand cream has a mild and friendly fragrance that contains shea butter, honey, and almond extracts to help soften the skin.

What is the best hand lotion for extremely dry hands?

If your hands are very dry, choose a hand lotion enriched with shea butter, glycerin and ceramides. Some of the best hand lotions for extremely dry hands are Cetaphil Pro Eczema Soothing Moisturizer, Aquaphor Healing Ointment, and Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Lotion.

Affiliate Disclosure:
The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations. As a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising initiative, we are able to earn advertising fees through providing links to products on Amazon.com. Please rest assured that we only recommend high-quality products.