Grooming

5 Hand Creams for Autumn

[Image - Forrest Cavale]
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Written by Tim Barnes-Clay

September is here and with it follows a season change, often causing dryness and soreness in our skin, particularly our hands.

Dryness is often most noticeable on our hands because they are so used and exposed to the air constantly. Men – dads in particular – often neglect their hands, despite being more likely to have rough, dry or hard skin. Admittedly, some of the moisturisers on offer can be too perfumed and come in girly packaging or are even coloured pink or glittery. These creams end up being unappealing to guys or leading to the classic excuse “I don’t have enough time”. So, it’s time to put that myth to bed, because fitting moisturising into your routine is actually pretty simple.

If you have a job which is hard on your hands, then keep your hand cream by the soap so that whenever you nip to the ‘Gents’ and wash your hands, you can replace the lost moisture. If you have a job which is easy on the hands, perhaps one where you type, then leave it by the bed and apply it just before you switch out the light.

All of the moisturisers we’ve found are great choices for men, being neither too fragranced or too ‘pink’. They also come in handy travel sized tubes so that you can keep one in your car (or your pocket) and tackle that dry skin as soon as you see it. 

The Body Shop Hemp Hand Protector

Hemp Hand Protector is a really great intensive moisturiser for hands. It gives quick results on the driest skin. It does have a scent, but it is pleasant and not floral or feminine like many hand creams. It really prevents the cracking that can occur across the knuckles in colder weather.

Clarins ClarinsMen Active Hand Care

This hand cream is really good for soothing irritations caused by the environment. It doesn’t leave hands sticky and the scent is subtle and specifically aimed at men. It rubs in easily and contains ingredients such as Bison Grass and Chinese Ginger to energise the skin.

Ahava Men’s Mineral Hand Cream

A nourishing and healing hand moisturiser that eliminates rough skin, giving maximum hydration and protection. Witch hazel gives skin a refreshed feel, restoring suppleness quickly. Gingko Biloba Leaf detoxifies your skin, reducing inflammation and preventing premature aging alongside other ingredients such as Ginseng Root which encourages new cell regeneration.

Jack Black Intense Therapy Hand Cream

Formulated for tough, calloused skin, Intense Therapy Hand Cream has been tested by those in professions which cause high levels of stress to the skin on your hands such as Carpenters. It comes in attractive packaging with a masculine feel and is fragrance free. It works at high speed to relieve your hands from dryness and alleviate the uncomfortable soreness you may feel from chapped and over-worked hands.

Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve

Kiehl’s Hand Salve has two main ingredients to nourish and restore the skin, avocado oil and sesame oil. Avocado oil contains amino acids as well as Vitamins A, D and E to soothe and smooth your skin. It is said to create a ‘glove-like’ protection that lasts throughout the day. It is rich and creamy with a light herbal smell which fades quickly and is definitely not too ‘girly’.

There you have it guys, with a top selection of handcare products specifically targeting men, why not get moisturising?