5. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
BEST HAND CREAM FOR WINTER
PROS
- Effectively hydrates skin
- Leaves skin soft and smooth
- Rich formula to protect skin against harsh weather conditions
CONS
- May feel greasy
| Key ingredients | Glycerin, fatty acids |
|---|---|
| Size | 2 oz. |
| Fragrance | None |
This thick, glycerin-rich Neutrogena cream, ideal for winter, is dermatologist-recommended for a reason: In past GH Beauty Lab tests, it was a top-scoring formulation, increasing skin’s hydration levels by 40.3%. It also rated well with testers for making skin feel soft and smooth and its pleasant scent, though some thought the formula was greasy. “The best hand cream I’ve ever used,” one consumer tester raved. More positive tester feedback: “You don’t have to use a lot to make your hands feel conditioned,” and “even after washing my hands, they were still moisturized.”
6. Karité Crème Mains Nourishing Hand Cream
BEST DERMATOLOGIST-RECOMMENDED HAND CREAM
PROS
- Created by a dermatologist
- Softens skin
- Lasting effects
CONS
- Scent wasn’t appealing to most
| Key ingredients | Glycerin, shea butter, plant oils |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.4 oz. |
| Fragrance | None added (light natural scent) |
Not only recommended by a dermatologist, this Karité hand cream was created by one, Naana Boakye, M.D., along with her two sisters, who source sustainably-harvested raw shea butter from their native Ghana. In GH Beauty Lab testing, the formula scored high for leaving hands soft and testers reported that it provided lasting moisturization. Lab Corneometer calculations confirmed that it raised skin moisturization levels by a strong 39% over six hours after application.
While the cream has no added fragrance, most testers didn’t like the natural aroma, which some said was reminiscent of coconut. “I have several fingers that were very dry to the point of peeling and this lotion helped them tremendously,” a tester raved.