We've all been washing our hands a lot more than usual, for longer than we previously did, hand sanitising even after washing with soap, and some have even stockpiled hand sanitisers.
READ MORE: Does hand sanitiser ever expire? Here’s what doctors want you to know
Of course, what that means is that we're most likely moisturising our hands more frequently.
Are your hands starting to feel like droewors ever so slightly? I know, right.
And do you know what's now almost as in high a demand as hand sanitiser was about 50 days ago? Hand lotion.
Although Dis-Chem's most searched for items right now include hand sanitiser, surgical face masks, and Dettol, it's been speculated that hand cream is climbing the ranks as a sought-after product across retailers.
Screenshot from Dis-Chem website.
And this makes sense. I feel the need to moisturise my hands more frequently than I did before - I even instinctively reach for my hand cream while watching series or in the middle of writing up an article. I'm on tube number three now and I believe the journey ahead is still long so there's no harm in stocking up on more hand hydration.
In fact, there's evidence backing the necessity to moisturise now more than ever - the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) explains that this is what science knows so far;
- Dry skin increases your risk of picking up germs. If you have dry skin from using hand sanitiser, apply moisturiser immediately after your hand sanitiser dries.
- Handwashing helps to prevent illness, but frequent handwashing can dry your skin. To prevent and heal dry skin, apply a hand cream or ointment after you wash your hands.
- When skin is moist, it can better protect you from germs.
In addition to this, they advise that the best manner in which to achieve optimum result is by "drying your hands with a clean towel but leave some water on them. You can also let your hands air dry. While your hands are slightly damp, apply your hand cream or ointment."
When it comes to purchasing the ideal hand cream, AADA dermatologists recommend using a hand cream or ointment that:
- Contains mineral oil or petrolatum
- Comes in a tube rather than a pump-bottle
- Says it’s “fragrance-free” and “dye-free”
READ MORE: 6 DIY hair and beauty treatment skills you shouldn't be intimidated to master during lockdown
So in the interest of making sure you stay ahead of the rush and make the right purchase, we've recommended 10 hand creams to keep your hands moisturised and soft. I mean, you may not be shaking hands during this time, but wouldn't it be lovely if your hands remained as soft as a baby's bottom?
Disclaimer: New Level 4 lockdown online shopping policies may differ from store to store. At the time of publication of this article, these products were available to shop.
10 hand creams you'll love long after your days of social distancing:
Eucerin hand cream 5% Urea
75ml, R139.95 at Dis-Chem online
Repairing and replenishing cream for dry to extremely dry hands. Intensively moisturises and soothes dry to severely dry hands for noticeably smooth and softer skin.
Epimax all purpose moisturiser
100g tube, R49 on Takealot
It's gentle and mild enough for the whole family. Dermatologist tested. It contains pure cetomacrogol cream and glycerine.
I'm currently using this moisturiser, which you can also purchase in-store at Clicks.
Longmarket Peony & Honey hand and nail cream
60ml, R69.95 at Woolworths online
Enjoy the sweet floral fragrance of this peony and honey scented hand and nail cream, enriched with shea butter to keep hands soft, nourished and moisturised all day long.
Dr Hauschka hydrating hand cream
30ml, R359 on Faithful to Nature
Give your skin a helping hand with this nourishing botanical lotion. Dr. Hauschka Hydrating Hand Cream helps to soothe, soften and strengthen the skin, leaving your hands feeling healthy and supple. This natural hand cream is deeply moisturising but non-greasy, and has a fresh, subtle scent. Made with extracts of kalanchoe, marshmallow, blackthorn and carrot.
Palmer's hand cream
60g, R37.95 at Dis-Chem
Coconut oil formula with vitamin E. 24-hour moisture.
Esse hand cream
60ml, R225 on Faithful to Nature
This lightweight hand lotion from Esse is made with marula, rooibos and jojoba, to nourish your skin without leaving a greasy residue.
READ MORE: Prada, LVMH, Gucci, and Pyer Moss among luxury fashion names contributing to Covid-19 relief
Carrol Boyes hand lotion
500ml, R225 from the Carrol Boyes online store
Not tested on animals. Paraben-free. This beautifully scented hand cream in a light formulation is quickly absorbed to soothe and protect hands and cuticles, leaving them feeling soft and silky. Enriched with shea butter and cocoa butter.
Carrol Boyes hand cream
120ml, R95 from the Carrol Boyes online store
Not tested on animals. Paraben-free. This nourishing hand cream is created in a luxuriously thick cream which leaves hands feeling soft and moisturised. Presented in a durable PU tube, perfect for popping in your handbag or leaving by the kitchen sink. Enriched with shea butter and cocoa butter.
HERBAE par L'Occitane hand cream
30ml, R150 online at L'Occitane En Provence
Enriched with shea butter, this light-textured, nourishing cream leaves behind the distinctive green and floral notes of HERBAE par L’Occitane, with its addictively fresh wild grass accord. The handy travel size slips easily into your handbag.Hand cream with a green, floral scent to leave skin soft and delicately fragranced.
Jo Malone London Lime Basil & Mandarin hand cream
50ml, R520 at Woolworths online
Peppered basil and aromatic white thyme give an unexpected twist to the scent of limes in a Caribbean breeze. This Body & Hand Lotion is enriched with coconut oil and is easily absorbed. It instantly provides moisture and care, while its fragrant properties help emit scent from the skin.
Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Sign up to W24’s newsletters so you don't miss out on any of our stories and giveaways.