6 skin-saving hand creams for perennially dry hands
Even in the most humid parts of Asia, people are not immune to the curse of having uncomfortably dry hands. Between constant handwashing, frequent flying and prolonged exposure to air conditioning, skin can quickly feel tight or flaky and appear aged. For those who view grooming as a full-body ritual, not an afterthought, a quality hand cream is essential. These six hand creams don’t just hydrate—they restore, repair and help reverse visible signs of damage. Consider them your skin’s first line of defence.
Read more: Is your beauty routine damaging your skin barrier?
Officine Universelle Buly Pommade Concrète
This no-nonsense cream from the French apothecary brand skips silicones and mineral oils in favour of shea butter, beeswax and sweet almond oil. Designed to soften without stickiness, it works particularly well on severely dry skin. The formula is fragrance-free—which means the product, while not unscented, has no added fragrance—making it suitable even for sensitive hands, while the vintage-style aluminium tube adds a tactile charm to an otherwise understated product.
Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Balm
An updated version of the original cult favourite, this balm offers targeted care for both skin and nails. Rich in shea butter, sesame oil and myrrh extract, it nourishes dry hands, strengthens fragile nails and conditions cuticles. The texture is thicker than the cream variant yet still absorbs well without leaving residue, making it a solid choice for those who need serious repair but dislike stickiness. It’s particularly effective during travel or post-sanitiser use.
Chanel La Crème Main
More than a pretty egg-shaped tube, this is a high-functioning treatment with a streamlined formula. Iris pallida extract brightens the skin, May rose wax hydrates and glycerin helps lock in moisture. The ergonomic packaging was designed to prevent leaks and dispense the perfect amount. It also makes it one of the most Instagrammable hand creams—definitely not embarrassing to whip out at dinner. The texture melts into skin with no greasy after-feel, making it a staple for those who want both form and function.
Grown Alchemist Rich Restorative Hand Cream
This plant-forward option from the Australian skincare label features a blend of tamanu oil, camellia seed oil and Persian rose. The formula is rich enough to restore dry or cracked hands, yet sinks in quickly without leaving a waxy layer. It has a mild herbal scent and focuses on strengthening the skin’s barrier function over fragrance or cosmetic sheen. Ideal for those who prefer results-driven naturals.
111Skin Black Diamond Hand Cream
From the Harley Street-born brand known for its clinical skincare, this luxe hand cream is powered by the brand’s signature NAC Y² complex, a trio of peptides and antioxidants designed to support cellular repair. Black diamond particles aid ingredient absorption, while added vitamin C helps reduce pigmentation. It targets thinning skin, dark spots and texture—essentially treating the hands like the face.
Sisley Paris Restorative Hand Cream
Sisley Paris Restorative Hand Cream
This intensely moisturising cream is formulated to comfort and repair dry, stressed hands. It features a blend of shea butter, carrot extract and harpagophytum, also known as South African herb devil’s claw, to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier, while vitamin E provides antioxidant support. Lightweight yet nourishing, it absorbs quickly and helps improve suppleness over time. Ideal for hands damaged by environmental stress, frequent washing or seasonal dryness.
Offering more than just basic hydration, these hand creams deliver real skincare benefits, whether you’re after brightening, anti-ageing or repair. Whichever one of these hand creams lands in your bag or bedside table, your hands will look and feel significantly better for it.
NOW READ
10 perfumes that won't trigger your fragrance allergies
7 long-lasting, sweat-proof and concert-friendly makeup products