Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (2024)

Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (1)

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A quality hand cream is one of the most underrated grooming products for men. Everything from harsh winter weather conditions and sun exposure to frequent hand-washing and weightlifting can wreak havoc on our hands. To keep them soft, supple and youthful, we encourage you to invest in a hand cream for men to use all year long.

Compared to your average lotion, the best hand creams for men are thicker, in order to allow for deeper protection of the skin. Hand creams are more effective at boosting skin moisture and elasticity when used on a daily basis, as opposed to only when they feel dry. A good hand cream will also reduce dryness and redness of the skin without leaving behind a nasty greasy residue.

We know everyone has a different skin type and preference, so we tested dozens of hand creams to outline the top performers. Our grooming editors, who are experts at testing products, evaluated hydration levels as well as the overall look and feel of their hands after each application. The most common effective ingredients to look for are glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and shea butter. Aside from skin-softening benefits, they also create a protective barrier on the surface to lock in hydration and prevent further water loss. Whether you want a nice-smelling, luxury formula or a simple hydrating balm that still gets the job done, keep reading to discover the best hand creams for men to keep within reach at all times.

    Best Overall Hand Cream

    Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (9)

    Now 18% Off

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (10)Leaves skin feeling soft
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (11)Made with plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (12)Smells amazing
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (13)Delivers rich hydration with each application
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (14)On the pricey side

    The Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm from Aesop ticks all the boxes. For starters, it sinks easily into the skin followed by a clear, smooth finish. Also, the vegan formula is packed with ingredients such as glycerin, shea butter, and sweet almond. These moisturizing treatments work to lock in hydration and soften. The herbal scent is worth mentioning too with notes of mandarin, rosemary and cedarwood that smell heavenly.

    Our grooming editors are longtime fans of this hand cream. They rave about how it makes their hands feel supple and stays on the skin for hours—especially during the most brutal days of winter. Only half a teaspoon is recommended per application, which means it will go a long way. Not to mention, it lathers so smoothly and doesn't leave behind any film residue after drying down.

    Size2.6 oz.
    Active IngredientsMandarin Rind, Rosemary Leaf, Cedar Atlas
    Skin TypeDry, Sensitive
    ScentCitrus, woody, herbaceous

    Best Hand Cream For Manual Workers

    O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (15)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (16)Hypoallergenic formula
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (17)Clinically proven to instantly boost moisture levels
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (18)Amazon best-seller with over 24,000+ 5-star ratings
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (19)Easy to take on the go
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (20)Must apply a few times daily for the best results

    For those whose job is hard on their hands, O'Keefe's hand cream is right up you alley. Aside from being one of Amazon's bestseller items with over 24,000 five-star ratings, it works to soothe, relieve and repair dry, cracked skin.

    We love how easy it is to take on the go. It can fit in any work bag or your handwarmer pockets for easy access. Whether you're a carpenter, mechanic or somewhere in between, this is perfect to use throughout the course of the day. For the best results, apply after you've washed your hands, taken a shower and before bed.

    Size6.8 fl. oz
    Active IngredientsGlycerin
    Skin TypeDry, Cracked
    ScentUnscented

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    Best Multi-Use Hand Cream

    Nivea Men Creme

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (21)

    This multi-purpose tub of concentrated cream by Nivea Men is ideal to use on the go. Its packable size is easy to fit into your duffel bag or backpack whenever you travel and can be applied liberally on your face, body and hands.

    The lightweight formula is designed to give all areas of your skin the proper boost of hydration to deter from drying out. One Amazon user credits the product for improving the appearance of wrinkles. Another claimed it alleviates skin irritation that occurs post-shave. Plus, a little goes a long way with this straightforward cream.

    Size2.6 oz, 5.3 oz
    Active IngredientsGlycerin, Vitamin E
    Skin TypeDry
    ScentSpicy-woody, Herbal Notes with Apple

    Best Non-Greasy Hand Cream

    CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (26)

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (27)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (28)Developed and tested with dermatologists
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (29)Free of fragrance to avoid irritation
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (30)Safe and effective for eczema
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (31)Have to reapply after frequent handwashing

    If thick heavy creams aren't your thing, then check out this thinner alternative from CeraVe. The texture strikes a balance between rich and lightweight, and dries down to a soft matte finish. One of its main ingredients is dimethicone, an emollient used to provide long-lasting skin-smoothing benefits.

    Over the course of our testing, we had to reapply after washing our hands. But that doesn't outweigh the positives: the ultra-sheer formula is water-resistant, glides onto the skin with ease, and gently hydrates. Another bonus: this product is also safe and effective for eczema-prone skin.

    Size3 oz.
    Active IngredientsHyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides
    Skin TypeDry, Sensitive, Oily, Acne-prone, Eczema-prone
    ScentUnscented

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    Best Smelling Hand Cream

    Malin + Goetz Vitamin b5 Hand Treatment

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (32)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (33)Created with natural fragrance and color
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (34)Delivers intense hydration to skin, cuticles and nails
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (35)Comes in a recyclable travel-sized tube
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (36)May run out of it fast

    If you're in the market for a nice-smelling hand cream, you can’t go wrong with this one from Malin + Goetz, which has a bergamot scent that our editors describe as "calm and refreshing." Its enriched with absorbent fatty acids like vitamin b5 and shea to moisturize and nourish the skin.

    We love that this hand treatment comes in a travel-sized tube that can fit right in your pocket or backpack. Also, the fragrance isn't too dominating that it'll bother your senses or anyone else around.

    Size1 oz.
    Active IngredientsVitamin b5, Shea Butter, Sodium PCA, Glycerin
    Skin TypeDry
    ScentBergamot

    Best Hand Cream With SPF

    Supergoop! Handscreen SPF 40

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (37)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (38)Good for anti-aging
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (39)Made with fast-absorbing formula
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (40)Ideal for radical damage, hyperpigmentation, sun damage
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (41)Vegan and cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (42)A little overpriced for the size (but lasts long)

    Sun exposure is one of the biggest culprits behind aging—both on your face and on your hands. Not only does this rich cream have SPF40 protection against the sun’s damaging rays, but it also contains sea buckthorn—a key ingredient to help reduce dark spots. Meadowfoam and argan oils are also in the mix for boosting moisture and pumping up the skin with hydration.

    Supergoop's hand screen is perfect for vacations in the sun and cold days in the winter. It's light enough to reapply throughout the day and rubs into the skin with a clear finish.

    Read More: Best SPF Moisturizers for Men

    Size1 oz.
    Active IngredientsSea Buckthorn Fruit Extract, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Argan Oil
    Skin TypeNormal, Dry, Combination, and Oily
    ScentUnscented

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    Best Budget Hand Cream

    Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (43)

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (44)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (45)Contains soothing aloe and triple vitamin blend
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (46)Under $10
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (47)Hyperallogenic
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (48)Not for you if you're looking for a scent

    Looking to snag an affordable option? Gold Bond carries a healing hand cream that infuses a triple vitamin blend to improve the appearance of skin and protect against environmental stressors. Also, it's formulated with aloe and 7 intense moisturizers to deliver intense hydration for 24 hours.

    Aside from the attractive price tag, the feeling of all-day hydration makes this pick comparable to that of the more expensive brands we've tried. It brought our hands back to life with a velvety soft feel. Plus, the feeling of moisture attached to the skin remains after washing your hands or exposing them to the cold.

    Size3 oz.
    Active IngredientsAloe, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E
    Skin TypesAll
    ScentUnscented

    Best Luxury Hand Cream

    Le Labo Hinoki Hand Pomade

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (49)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (50)Luxury scent
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (51)Plant-based formula
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (52)Comes in a rich creamy consistency, but non-greasy
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (53)Repairs and hydrates skin
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (54)Pricey than others on the list

    Le Labo is synonymous with high-quality fragrances for men and their hand pomade is an extension of that. To deeply replenish, repair and condition, its formula contains sweet almond, shea butter and peony root extract.

    Our editors referred to this hand cream as "the holy grail". From a creamy rich texture to a warm Hinoki scent, this luxury pick lathers oh-so smoothly and smells even better. It also helps with chapped knuckles and dry, cracked palms. The price is higher than most, but if you can bear the expense, your hands will thank you. Plus, it's made with a plant-based formula which is suitable for all skin types.

    Size1.8 oz.
    Active IngredientsShea Butter, Sweet Almond, Peony Root
    Skin TypeAll
    ScentHinoki

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    Best Heavy-Duty Hand Cream

    Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (55)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (56)Soothes, conditions and moisturizes
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (57)Free of parabens and gluten
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (58)Made with recyclable packaging
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (59)Subtle scent

    Kiehl's maximum-strength moisturizer is designed for dehydration. Like most of their products, the magic lies within the ingredients. The thick formula includes shea butter as well as a medley of avocado, eucalyptus and sesame seed oils, which lock in existing moisture and return suppleness.

    This hand cream stood out because it absorbs within minutes and sticks around for hours. It's also perfect to restore the drying effects of outdoor activities like doing yard work or shoveling snow. We also like the convenience of the squeeze tube and flip cap dispenser to control the amount we use.

    Size2.5 oz.
    Active IngredientsShea Butter, Avocado Oil, Sesame Seed Oil, Eucalyptus Oil
    Skin TypeAll
    ScentUnscented

    Best Unscented Hand Cream

    Nécessaire The Hand Cream

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (61)Helps with anti-aging and loss of firmness
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (62)Non-Comedogenic
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (63)Vegan and cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (64)The tube is not recyclable
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (65)Costly

    This unscented hand treatment exceeds the bare minimum of supplying moisture. Thanks to ingredients like cermaides and niacinamide, the Nécessaire hand cream helps improve dark spots, restore plumpness and strengthen the skin barrier.

    Our editors who are team sensitive-skin love that hand cream is free of fragrance, so there's no cause of irritation or clashing with your signature cologne. Despite the lightweight feel, it instantly relieves dryness for hours, even after washing your hands.

    Size2.2 oz.
    Active IngredientsFive Ceramides and Five Peptides, Niacinamide, Marula Butter and Marula Oil
    Skin TypeAll
    ScentUnscented

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    Best Sanitizing Hand Lotion

    Dove Hand Sanitizer Moisturizer

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (66)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (67)Two-in-one lotion and sanitizer
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (68)Nourishes skin 10 layers deep for soft, smooth hands
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (69)99.99% effective against many germs
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (70)Not travel-size

    This clever two-in-one sanitizer-lotion fights away germs and bacteria, while at the same time provides moisture to dry hands. And get this—it's been clinically proven to hydrate skin up to 8 hours and nourish 10 layers deep for an ultra-soft surface.

    Most sanitizers can strip away moisture, but this one does quite the opposite. Instead, there's just an incredible boost of hydration and a scent that's not too overbearing for your senses.

    Read More: Best Hand Sanitizers

    Size8 oz.
    Active IngredientsNaturally derived alcohol, skin natural nutrients
    Skin TypeAll
    ScentUnscented

    Editors Pick

    evolvetogether Monaco

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (71)

    Pros
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (72)100% biodegradable
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (73)Smells expensive
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (74)Antioxidant rich
    Cons
    • Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (75)Cost a little more than others

    Our of editors first used this hand cream on a ski vacation when their hands were dry, cracking, and desperate for relief. Two days later, they were baby soft and healed of the eczema and dry patches typically experience on their hands all winter long.

    A dime-sized amount of this luxe cream is all you need per application. It feels rich and creamy but soaks in quickly and totally for a hydrating, non-greasy feel. I’ve even applied it directly before slipping on a pair of winter gloves, and my hands are never left feeling clammy.

    How well it works and feels is only a fraction of why it made our list. The real kicker, is the smell. The brand describes its Monaco scent as a ‘modern rose’, which paints a pretty accurate picture. It’s light and fresh with subtle, gender-ambiguous notes of rose and citrus, and smells way more expensive than it is.

    Size1.7 oz
    Active IngredientsVitamin B5, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Glycerin
    Skin TypeAll
    ScentModern Rose

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    What to Look For in Hand Creams

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    Everyone's skin type is different, so finding the best hand cream relies on understanding your skin's needs and the ingredients that best meet those needs. Below, we have listed must-have ingredients for the most common concerns.

    For dryness and cracked skin: You will need the best source of hydration, which will derive from humectants such as aloe vera, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. They attract and bind water to your skin, increasing its moisture. Also, keep an eye out for emollients like argan oil, d imethicone, shea butter, squalane, and petrolatum. These ingredients create a physical barrier over the surface of the skin to prevent water loss and lock in hydration.

    For wrinkles and anti-aging: The skin on top of the hands is very delicate and prone to show early signs of aging. While some of the same anti-aging ingredients found in face products can also be effective for the hands, the combinations may vary. To help the skin stay soft and youthful, look for the following ingredients: retinol, vitamin C, vitamin E, lactic acid, niacinamide.

    For dark spots and discoloration: The best way to prevent discoloration on the skin is by protecting yourself from long bouts of sun exposure. Find a hand cream with SPF 30 or higher.

    How We Selected

    Don't Be Ashy This Winter: Buy These Hand Creams Instead (77)

    For the past two years, we consulted with Men's Health's Grooming editors and writers on the best hand creams for men. Experts, including our Grooming Editor Garrett Munce, put a number of hand soaps to the test and evaluated their ingredients, scent, and performance in the winter. We also considered top-reviewed hand creams that had high customer ratings on e-commerce websites that we trust.

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    Why Trust Men's Health

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    At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations.

    Our grooming editors and writers are experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality. They evaluated hand creams on their performance during the coldest winter months as well as in between washes. Their rankings were also concluded based on ease of use, scent, texture and whether it's possible to spot a significant difference whether you have acne, dark spots, or eczema-prone skin.

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