Hands are usually the first place to show winter dryness. They’re washed often, exposed to cold air and have fewer oil glands than the face. The result can be tight, rough skin, and in bad cases painful cracks around the knuckles and fingertips. Here’s how to fix dry hands and keep them comfortable.
Why hands get so dry
- Frequent hand washing strips natural oils, especially with harsh soap and hot water.
- Cold, dry air outside and central heating inside both pull moisture from skin.
- Hand sanitiser with alcohol dries skin further.
- Cleaning products and dishwashing irritate unprotected skin.
7 remedies for dry, cracked hands
1. Use a gentle hand wash
Swap harsh soap for a mild, hydrating wash. Our Hand & Body Wash, Grapefruit cleans without leaving hands squeaky and tight.
2. Wash with lukewarm water
Hot water feels nice in winter but removes more oil. Use lukewarm water and pat your hands dry, rather than rubbing.
3. Apply hand cream after every wash
This is the habit that makes the biggest difference. Keep a hand cream next to every sink. The Silk Skin Hand Cream absorbs quickly, so you can carry on with your day.
4. Try an overnight treatment
For very dry or cracked hands, apply a thick layer of rich cream at bedtime and wear cotton gloves overnight. A urea cream works well here. Urea softens rough skin and helps it hold water. Try the 5% Urea + 2% Panthenol Body Cream.
5. Wear gloves
Wear warm gloves outdoors, and rubber gloves for washing up and cleaning.
6. Exfoliate gently, once a week
If your hands feel rough but aren’t cracked, a gentle scrub once a week helps your cream absorb. Skip this step on broken skin.
7. Moisturise after sanitiser
If you use hand sanitiser often, follow it with hand cream once it has dried.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or pharmacist if your hands bleed, become very red, swollen or itchy, or don’t improve after two weeks of regular care. Eczema and contact dermatitis need specific treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the fastest way to heal cracked hands?
Apply a rich cream several times a day, and do an overnight treatment under cotton gloves. Most cracks improve within a few days.
Is urea good for dry hands?
Yes. Urea is both a moisturiser and a gentle softener, so it’s especially good for rough, thickened skin.
How often should I apply hand cream?
After every hand wash, and whenever your hands feel tight. In winter that can be 5 to 10 times a day.
Find more nourishing care in our Body Care collection.
