The Hand Cream Spectrum
FYI
You already know that the best offense is a great defense, and that couldn't be more true when it comes to fighting the elements. Even if you've got a great set of gloves and plenty of warm winter clothes, not introducing moisturizer into your daily regimen is only going to leave you high and dry. Winter can be especially harsh on the hands, which dry out quickly thanks to constant hand washing and outdoor texting. That's why you should stash a reliable hand cream in the office and at home. Whether your budget is more like a Norwegian fisherman's or Patrick Bateman's, we've rounded up the best to protect your extremities from extreme temperatures.
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, $5
A time-tested, fragrance-free formula good enough for seafaring fishermen. It's a tad greasy, so it's best used overnight.
Jack Black Industrial Strength Hand Healer, $15
Jack Black adds vitamins A and E to help soothe hands. It claims to be effective for callouses and people who wash their hands a lot.
Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, $20
This rich salve offers heavy-duty, all-day protection. That means a slippery grip, but the stuff heals chapped hands fasts.
Aveeno Active Eczema Therapy Moisturizing Cream, $7
This oatmeal-based formula is made for babies. But the fragrance-free lotion is quick absorbing and won't leave you greasy.
AHAVA Hand Cream, $20
Infused with ginger, ginseng and dead sea minerals, this hypoallergenic cream is absorbed into the skin almost instantly.
