How to Choose the Best Moisturiser for Your Hands

Since the pandemic broke out, most of us have been frenziedly washing and sanitising our hands with harsh sanitisers. This might curb the chances of virus transmission but it has definitely taken a toll on our hands. Frequent washing of hands or use of sanitisers lead to dry and chapped hands. The harsh chemicals tend to strip the skin of any natural oils, breaking down the moisture barrier that protects our hands. Therefore, it’s essential to apply hand lotions or creams to keep your skin healthy and soft. But how do you choose the right moisturiser when there are so many options out there? To help you out we asked Bhargav Paritala, co-founder, The Palm Care Company, to share some deets on the main ingredients to look out for. “ Since hands tend to dry out easily than facial skin, moisturizers for the face and hands should be different in texture and consistency. While choosing the right hand moisturising cream or lotion, look for the following ingredients that keep hands smooth for long hours,” says Bhargav. Given below are the ingredients Bhargav suggest you look out for next time you are shopping for hand creams or lotions. 

Vitamin E

Considered the gold standard of skincare ingredients, Vitamin E is an effective natural moisturiser. Hand moisturisers including Vitamin E can help to maintain velvety-smooth hands for long . The potent ingredient works to protect the outer layer of the skin from irritation and sun damage. Vitamin E also helps to promote cell regeneration and increases cell turnover, thus it is effective to maintain good skin health.

Shea Butter 

Shea Butter has remained an absolute favourite for people with dry skin as it has the potential to naturally improve skin barrier function. Enriched with Vitamin A, E, and essential fatty acids, shea butter aids in restoring and revitalising the skin cells, and enhance the overall appearance of hands. The ability of shea butter to melt at room temperature helps in easy absorption and provides enhanced lubrication to hands.

Glycerine

Glycerine is an excellent humectant that draws moisture back to the skin’s surface and restores hydration. This ingredient is effective in smoothening out fine lines and improving elasticity. Besides, hydrating your hands glycerine also protects skin from environmental damage.

Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees, which acts as an exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and keeps skin clean to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungus. The skin-friendly ingredient bolsters skin barrier function and improves moisture retention to keep hands soft and smooth. The high concentration of Vitamin A found in beeswax prevents hands from getting dry.

Ceramides

Ceramides are long-chain lipids that make up for over 50% of skin’s composition. Ceramides limit moisture loss and protect skin from environmental damage. The skin-replenishing ingredient is ideal for improving skin tone and texture and for combating visible signs of ageing. Using a hand moisturiser enriched with ceramide can strengthen the skin’s moisturisation defences.

Hyaluronic acids

One of the most popular ingredients in the skincare industry, hyaluronic acid possesses an impressive hydrating action. It helps keep skin supple. The ingredient works well to prevent dry hands and premature skin ageing.