13 Best Lotions For Cracked & Dry Hands, As Per An Expert – 2024
In the words of every skin care expert, there ever was - Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
Donna Kay Parrish is a licensed esthetician and an oncology certified reiki practitioner based out of Oxford, North Carolina. She worked as an operating room radiologic technologist at a Level I trauma center for 18 years before opening her own practice full time in esthetics.
Read full bio of Donna Kay Parrish
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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The best lotions for cracked hands leave your skin feeling soft and supple. Our hands go through a lot, be it multiple washing or constant spraying of sanitizers. This leaves our hand’s skin prone to dryness and roughness. A good moisturizing lotion can take care of these issues while gently caring for your hands. The dermatologist-tested formulas have active ingredients like dimethicone and ceramides that work wonders without disturbing the natural moisture barrier of your skin.
A good quality hand lotion is enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients that provide the TLC that your hard-working hands need. These hypoallergenic ingredients do not cause adverse effects and are suitable for sensitive skin types as well and make for great cracked hand remedies.
The market is full of hand cream options that promise to soothe your hands and keep them supple. In this article, we have listed a few of our favorites that will work wonders for your hands. So, go ahead and take a quick look!
In This Article
13 Best Lotions For Cracked, Excessively Dry Hands – 2024
1. Best Dermatologists-Recommend:CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
For normal to dry skin, the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing hand lotion is smooth, lightweight, and is easily absorbed by your skin. Developed with dermatologists using the MVE control-release technology, this lotion tackles the problem of dry and cracked hands with its non-greasy formula that will leave your skin with 24-hour hydration. Formulated with 3 essential ceramides, including 1, 3, 6-II, and hyaluronic acid, this non-comedogenic product retains your skin’s natural moisture and restores the skin’s natural barrier. The fragrance-free lotion is suitable for sensitive skin types and also has a gentle formula that can be used as a body lotion, face lotion, or hand lotion. This video review will provide you with added insights about the product.
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologically approved
- Lightweight and smooth texture
- Can be used on the face, body, and hands
- Contains sulfate and paraben
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 9,086 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
2. Best For Dead Skin Cells:Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Clinically proven to soothe and hydrate dry skin, the Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion contains an active natural colloidal oatmeal formula and rich emollients to give you a 24-hour glow. This fragrance-free lotion for very dry hands is non-greasy and can significantly improve your skin’s health, with visible differences in a single day. With dimethicone as its active ingredient, this skin protectant gets rid of dead skin cells, locks in moisture, and helps in repairing cracked skin by gently nourishing you with soft and smooth skin. Dermatologists also recommend this non-comedogenic lotion for its ability to tackle dry and dehydrated skin. Take a look at this video review to know more about the product.
- Clinically proven to hydrate dry skin
- Fragrance-free
- No greasy feeling
- Non-comedogenic
- Recommended by dermatologists
- As it is specially formulated for dry skin, it may not be best suited for other skin types.
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 3,752 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
3 Best Moisturizing Formula:Jergens Ultra Healing 48-Hour Moisturizer
If you are looking for long-lasting and intense moisture for dry and cracked hands, the Jergens Ultra Healing 48-Hour Moisturizer is a safe bet. This unique formula with a hydralucence blend of ingredients combined with vitamins C, E, and B5, tones, repairs and leaves your skin soft and glowing. This lotion absorbs into extra dry skin and penetrates 5 layers of your skin to reduce dryness at the source while catering to treating rough hands or spots like your heels, elbows, and knees. Your skin’s appearance and texture are left with a luminous glow! You may check out more about this product in this video featuring the reviewer’s experience.
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Long-lasting moisture
- Treats extra dry skin
- Suitable for men and women
- Contains paraben
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 2,976 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion Best Dermatologists-Recommend | Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion Best For Dead Skin Cells | Jergens Ultra Healing 48-Hour Moisturizer Best Moisturizing Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4 x 5 x 6 inches | 3.4 x 2 x 9.2 inches | 1.46 x 1.54 x 3.23 inches |
| Weight | 0.01 Ounces | 0.037 ounces | 3.84 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 9,086 | 3,752 | 2,976 |
| Price | $11.34 | $9.2 | $8.17 |
4. Best Non-Greasy Formula:Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
Developed by dermatologists, the Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion is a hydrating, unscented solution for normal to dry skin types. Fortified with vitamin B5 and skin essential moisturizers, this non-greasy formula is clinically proven to replenish and moisturize dry hands for up to 24 hours and thus, makes effective cracked hand solutions. Your skin’s natural moisture barrier will also be left with a pleasant, soft, clean, and smooth texture with this fast-absorbing lotion. Additionally, Lubriderm is the most recommended brand by tattoo artists for tattoo aftercare, so you can trust that it will help you effectively tackle all your dry skin needs. Amazon reviewers suggest using this product everyday to heal and repair dry and damaged skin.
- Developed by dermatologists
- Unscented
- Non-greasy formula
- Clinically proven to moisturize for 24 hours
- Improves skin’s natural moisture barrier
- Contains parabens
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 17,142 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
5. Best For Dry Skin:Curél Ultra Healing Intensive Lotion
Clinically proven to repair and renew extra dry skin, the non-greasy Curél Ultra Healing Intensive Lotion, relieves extra dry skin twice as well as leading intensive lotions. The all-day moisturizer with extra-strength naturally hydrating agents helps even the driest and tightest skin feel soft, supple and restored. With an advanced ceramide complex formula, shea butter, and oatmeal extracts, this lotion helps to hydrate dry skin and restores your skin’s ceramide levels to retain moisture and prevent symptoms of dry and tight skin from returning.
- Does not clog pores
- Suitable for men and women
- 24-hour dry skin relief
- Non-greasy formula
- Fragrance-free
- Clinically proven to repair dry skin
- Dermatologist-recommended
- It may not be best suited for all skin types.
"I've been using this moisturizer for years and it's always helped my dry flaky skin. With just one use, my skin was less wrinkled. It's also improved my sunspots over time which were caused by my frequent beach visits. This lotion kept my skin soft without any greasiness. It's perfect for travel too. This one is my go-to moisturizer for regular use and even for travel. It gets absorbed and works for hours. Highly recommended!"
Quick Tip6. Best Non-Comedogenic Option:Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Skin Therapy Lotion
Enriched with aloe, the dermatologist-tested Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Skin Therapy Lotion penetrates 10 surface layers of skin to deliver intense hydration that lasts for 24 hours. The fresh and clean scented formula is easily absorbed by your skin to give you instant relief from dry and cracked hands. This non-greasy lotion for dry hands treats rough and extra dry skin cells with 7 intensive moisturizers and vitamins A, C, and E to nourish and soften dry skin. It also helps improve skin elasticity, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, promotes collagen formation, minimizes lipid loss, and enhances the overall protective function of your skin. It is one of the most effective hand care essentials.
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Quick-absorbing formula
- Dermatologist-tested
- It may not be the ideal choice for oily skin
"My dry skin and I swear by this lotion. Its richness sinks straight into my skin, making it instantly smooth and soft. It may feel mildly oily, but it absorbs quickly and doesn't leave any greasy residue. I've noticed less flaky skin and more softness, especially during winter. A reliable moisturizer indeed!"
7. Best Long-Lasting Product:NIVEA Intense Healing Body Lotion
If you’re looking for instant and long-lasting relief from dry skin, the dermatologically approved NIVEA Intense Healing Body Lotion works wonders for dry to very dry skin types. This non-greasy lotion provides extended moisture for up to 72 hours which helps in protecting cracked skin, making it perfect for dry hands. Enriched with deep moisture serum and pro-vitamin B5, you will now see visible results and ultra-skin-nourishing moisture for your rough skin after just one application. The hydra-IQ technology that this nourishing hand cream provides, supports your skin’s hydration network and gives you non-stop moisture.
- Non-greasy formula
- Moisturizes up to 72 hours of moisture
- Intensive skincare
- Visible results with single-use
- Dermatologically tested
- Contains sulfate
8. Best For Itchy Skin :O’Keeffe’s Skin Repair Body Lotion
When your skin needs instant relief from dry and itchy skin, turn to the O’Keeffe’s Skin Repair Body Lotion and you will not be disappointed. This fast-absorbing, unscented formula heals and repairs your skin, and protects you from dryness for up to 48 hours. Not only can you prevent future flare-ups, but with this potent shower-proof lotion, your moisturized hands can fight extremely dry skin with ease. This moisturizing hand treatment is a concentrated and clinically-effective lotion that is safe to use on eczema-prone skin and for diabetic patients too.
- Clinically proven formula
- Safe to use for diabetics
- Unscented
- Up to 48-hours moisturization
- Prevents future flare-ups
- It may take some time to absorb
"With dry skin as my inheritance, I can vouch that O'Keefe's Body Lotion has been a boon! Not overly greasy, it revives parched skin from frequent wind exposure, soothing the cracks effectively. A slightly oily residue does surface post-application but it has significantly improved my skin health. A worthy investment for similar skin afflictions!"
9. Best For Sunburn:Vaseline Intensive Care Soothing Hydration Body Lotion
The Vaseline Intensive Care Soothing Hydration Body Lotion is a non-greasy body lotion that locks in moisture and provides instant relief for dry, itchy, and irritated skin. Made with 100% pure aloe extract, your skin will feel soothed and look hydrated and healthy. Microdroplets of Vaseline jelly in this clinically-proven formula go beyond basic moisturization to heal dry skin from within. For visibly healthier skin from the first use, this lotion also doubles as a cure for sunburn. This lotion contains glycerin that draws and binds skin moisture and will be your go-to for all dry skin needs that can be tackled at the root and makes for deep hydration remedies.
- Contains microdroplets of Vaseline jelly
- Non-greasy formula
- Mild fragrance
- Soothes dryness associated with sunburn
- Can be used as a nourishing eczema cream
- Multi-layer formula
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clinically tested formula
- Some may find the consistency slightly watery
"I've been using this Vaseline lotion for my dry and itchy skin for years. Despite being less creamy than before, it manages to hydrate my skin without leaving a greasy feel. The texture is well-balanced, neither too thick nor too thin. All in all, it's one of the best lotions I have come across in my life."
10. Best Fast-Absorbing Formula:HerbXtract Cosmetics Rose Series Hand Cream
The HerbXtract Cosmetics Rose Series Hand Cream improves, balances, and hydrates your hands and is made especially for dry and cracked skin. This fast-absorbing product moisturizes and heals dry hands to restore softness with the rejuvenating power of organic rose oil. Containing 100% natural ingredients including pure collagen, keratin, and vitamin E, this formula will improve skin elasticity and diminish the appearance of fine lines. Not only does this lotion double up as an anti-aging solution, but it also instantly boosts moisture levels and prevents daily skin damage and further moisture loss.
- Contains 99.5% collagen hydrolyzate
- Clinically-tested ingredients
- Non-greasy
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Regenerating effect
- Some may find the scent overpowering
11. Best Vegan Product:climbOn All Purpose Creme Lite
For soothing hand lotions with moisturization and nourishment, the climbOn All Purpose Crème Lite is perfect for skin that is subject to harsh outdoor conditions. This long-lasting vegan lotion balm has a 100% plant-based hydrating formula that includes apricot kernel oil, grape seed oil, shea butter, lemon oil, lavender, and geranium, which come together to give you softer skin. The light, paste-like consistency makes this lotion easy to use daily, whether you want to apply it on a concentrated skin area or spread it smoothly over your entire body.
- Easily absorbed
- Multi-purpose product
- No synthetics, fillers, or GMOs
- 100% vegan ingredients
- Light consistency without beeswax
- Cruelty-free
- Some may find the fragrance overwhelming
"I used to have painfully dry hands but this lotion keeps them moisturized and protected. However, it's a smidgen greasy and the scent isn't my favorite. I have recommended it to my peers and they are satisfied with it as well!"
12. Best Cruelty-Free Formula:Soapbox Deep Moisture Hand Lotion
Experience luxurious moisturization with the Soapbox Deep Moisture Hand Lotion that contains beneficial ingredients like olive oil, aloe, vitamin E, shea butter, and coconut oil for 5 times the moisture your skin needs to seal in hydration. The fast-absorbing formula is infused with vitamins and fatty acids in the form of coconut oil and other nourishing ingredients, which makes this the ideal hand cream for dry, cracked, or aging hands. This hand lotion recommendation is packed with a nutty, light-woodsy aroma of coconut milk and sandalwood, this comforting blend will help keep your hands smooth and supple.
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Parabens-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalates-free
- The lotion may have a slightly greasy texture.
"This lotion is indeed a delight. I adore the smell, somewhat akin to sandalwood and coconut milk, and it soothes my frequently washed, red hands nicely. Its effective moisturizing formula that absorbs well is another plus. Will surely be repurchasing it."
13. Best Lightweight Formula:OUAI Hand Lotion
The OUAI Hand Lotion has the perfect lightweight formula that your dry skin needs for deep hydration. It is formulated with avocado, jojoba, and rosehip oils to moisturize even the driest spots and lock in moisture. Donna Kay Parrish, a licensed esthetician, says, “The jojoba oil and the rosehip oil combination in the hand lotion is what takes the cake and makes this such a moisturizing winner. Moreover, the smell is luxurious and devine.” Scented with Dean Street, a floral fragrance with a blend of citrus fruits, rose, magnolia, and linden blossom, you will be left mesmerized with the inviting fragrance of this potent formula. This lotion is effective in repairing damaged skin and soothing cracked hands and you can look forward to regularly using this lotion for a soothing and replenished feeling. Last but not the least, remember to conduct a patch test to check for allergic reactions before you use it!
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Lightweight texture
- Uplifting citric and floral fragrance
- Slightly expensive
"The lotion is extremely pleasant with its beautiful fragrance. However, the damp texture of the lotion wasn’t quite my favorite. But its amazing ability to hydrate my skin and soothe my cracked hands has ensured that I will buy it again!"
Now that you’ve glanced through our curated list of the best lotions for cracked hands, here’s a guide that will further help you navigate the right solution for your skin type and skin needs.
How To Choose The Best Lotions For Cracked Hands: A Buying Guide
Extra dry skin deserves more intensive support, which the traditional lotion may not always provide. Hands lotions help you alleviate dryness, and while choosing the right lotion may seem straightforward, you might have a few questions when it comes to the kind of ingredients used and what formulas to avoid that will lead you to make an informed and effective buying choice.
Ingredients To Look For In Lotions For Dry Hands
The inclusion of one or more of these ingredients is a pretty good indicator that the hand lotion for cracked skin that you intend to use is capable of holding in and protecting moisture and even though not every lotion will contain each of the following ingredients, you can choose one that contains these.
- Glycerin
Glycerin is important for healthy skin and is naturally found in human skin cells. It retains moisture and acts as a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin cells and also prevents drying out. You will be left with soft and hydrated skin.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E improves your skin’s condition by protecting it from sun damage, while also improving the texture and softness of your skin. Vitamin E is a nourishing agent that almost all skin healing products should ideally contain for its numerous benefits.
- Shea butter
With numerous skin benefits, shea butter is an age-old therapy that contains essential fatty acids and essential antioxidants like vitamins A and E to help your skin repair itself. It is also known to improve your skin’s ability to retain moisture and is perfect for dry and chapped hands.
Ingredients To Avoid While Choosing A Lotion For Dry Hands
Some ingredients may cause more harm than you can perceive and it is important to steer clear from using products that contain them. Often they can irritate sensitive skin and can even aggravate allergies. They can also cause deeper harm to your body and general well-being, so you should be fully aware of what these ingredients are. It is best to avoid the following ingredients:
- Parabens
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- Phthalates
- BHT
- Lead
- Formaldehydes
- Triethanolamine
The Bottom Line
Due to constant washing for hygiene purposes or extreme exposure to dry environments, your hands become sensitive and dehydrated real quickly. To combat this dryness, you need to start using the best lotions for cracked hands that will leave your skin smooth and soft. The CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion doubles up as a body lotion and enables essential hydration with its lightweight and smooth texture, while the Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Skin Therapy Lotion is enriched with vitamins to nourish the skin. To repair your skin and avoid eczema flare-ups, try the O’Keeffe’s Skin Repair Body Lotion. The products reviewed above have dermatologist-tested formulas packed with active ingredients like ceramides and dimethicone that work wonders without disturbing the natural moisture barrier of your skin. In addition, they have a non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic formula that offers long-lasting moisturization to your hands. Always consider the ingredients before choosing the best lotion for cracked hands. Avoid those containing SLS, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, lead, and other synthetic preservatives.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Krati Darak, the author, is a skin care enthusiast who considers using a good lotion as an effective solution to get rid of cracked hands. She has carefully reviewed the products on the list to help the readers make the best choices, and it includes some of her go-to favorites. These lotions are enriched with good moisturizing ingredients and are extremely skin-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does coconut oil help dry cracked hands?
Yes, it is a great option for natural hand moisturizers.
Is petroleum jelly good for dry cracked hands?
Depending on the ingredients used along with petroleum jelly, you can effectively tackle dry hands.
Is olive oil good for dry cracked hands?
Yes, olive oil has numerous skin benefits that will help you fight rough skin and help in restoring dry hands.
Can you put lotion on cracked hands?
Yes, you can apply lotion on dry, rough, or cracked hands to help them heal faster.
How do you heal cracked hands overnight?
You have to retain the moisture in your hands to heal them overnight. For that, apply a hydrating lotion, moisturizer, or petroleum jelly, and cover your hands with gloves to make them softer.
How do you take care of your hands?
• Regularly wash your hands.
• Moisturize them daily.
• Exfoliate your hands to remove dead skin.
• Avoid sunlight exposure.
Can you put lotion on cracked, bleeding hands?
Yes, you put lotion on cracked hands. But before adding lotion, wash your hands thoroughly with a gentle cleanser.
What happens if you don’t moisturize your hands?
If you don’t moisturize your hands regularly, they’ll start getting rough and dry and feel itchy and tight. They will look dull and aged.
How often should you apply hand lotion?
Apply hand lotion twice a day or after every hand wash. If you use hand sanitizers frequently, don’t forget to apply your hand cream as well.
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