Keeping our skin moisturised is essential for ongoing skin care, but this task often proves to be a little daunting. There are so many products available on the market right now. So how do you decide whether you should invest in a moisturising lotion or a hand cream? This is where we come in.
This detailed guide will help you learn more about each and the pros and cons to help you make an educated choice. Let's get into it, shall we?
What is hand lotion?
A hand lotion is a low viscosity product that is used to moisturise hard-working skin. The one major thing that can help you spot a lotion is the water content. They tend to have a thin consistency and a high percentage of water. Because of this consistency level, it can spread it quickly on a larger surface. Hand lotion provides a lighter option to use in the Summer months. When we talk about skin types, people with 'normal' skin type should opt for a hand lotion. However, we tend to offer hand creams, as we find them a better option for protecting and nourishing the skin.
What is hand cream?
Hand creams are a high - viscosity product specifically designed to be used on the hands, to soften and moisturise dry and cracked hands. The high viscosity of the hand cream means that they have a higher percentage of oil as compared to water. As a result, hand creams don't have the runny texture of lotions and are thicker. These are recommended for people with dry skin as it helps in giving them extra coverage. Hand creams are used most commonly in winter. We've been creating luxury hand creams for decades and have received so much positive feedback about our Naturally European collection.
Shop our luxury hand creams here.
Difference between cream and lotion
One way to tell the difference between cream and lotion is the consistency of the product. Hand creams will be a lot thicker in texture because of their high oil percentage. A body lotion or lotion will be thinner because of the high water content.
The debate about lotion vs cream has been going on for quite some time now. Before you try to pick between one, you should be aware of all the differences. In addition to different consistencies, let's talk about usage.
Many people prefer to use lighter lotions in summer because the light texture doesn't make hands feel sticky or greasy. Meanwhile, creams with a thicker consistency tend to be more oily and denser.
Lastly, coming to a difference that you can feel, lotions will be absorbed quickly by your skin. However, thicker creams rich in shea butter will stay on your skin for longer and create a protective layer — an ideal choice in the Winter.
Can you use body lotion for hands?
Body lotions can be used on your hands, and it's undoubtedly easier to use one product. However, keep in mind that sometimes our hands need richer content, and the thin formulation of body lotions might not be sufficient. Moreover, hand lotions also have some ingredients, such as lactic acid, which are present to moisturise the tougher parts of your skin, such as your elbow, etc. The point to note here is that you may not find this ingredient in certain body lotions.
Can you use hand cream on your face?
A major misconception that people have is that they can use hand creams on their face. The thick consistency of hand cream has not been developed for the delicate skin on your face. It may even trigger breakouts of spots or blemishes. Moreover, there are various ingredients that you need to watch out for. Hand creams have lactic acid, which can irritate when exposed to delicate skin.
The best time to use hand cream
It would be best to give your skin maximum time to benefit from your moisturising products. So, this is why nighttime is the best time for all your moisturising routines.
Applying hand cream at night means that you can give yourself 6-8 hours of uninterrupted pampering. Keep a hand cream on your bedside table as a gentle reminder before bed. Also, make sure you apply hand cream when you are heading out in colder weather.
If you are looking for exquisite scents, then we recommend our best luxury hand creams, such as Beauty of Bath hand cream. For something a little lighter try our floral Aromas Artesanles de Anigua hand cream, blended using Shea butter.
Benefits of hand lotion and hand creams
Using lotions and creams is an inexpensive way to give yourself all the pampering you need. Other than just feeling good, there are tons of other benefits that come with lotions too.
Lotions and creams can help in rehydrating dry skin. If weather conditions are cold or dry, skin can be adversely impacted. Some people can suffer from skin irritation because of heat as well as the cold. Lotions and hand cream will provide relief.
Rough areas like elbows and knees can hugely benefit from a little moisturising hand lotion or cream. A perfect way to make your skin free from rough and dry spots.
Regularly applying a cream will help soften hard skin and make it easier to reduce dry skin. Calluses are a common occurrence for people who tend to be on their feet a lot, and our Naturally European hand cream can be used to great effect on feet.
Thick hand creams will provide your skin with an extra barrier in winters. This barrier will give your skin all the protection it needs. Lotions and creams are a great way to feel pampered with the lasting scent of your favourite fragrance.
Hand cream gift sets
If you're looking for the perfect gift for a loved one, check our wide selection of gift sets. Hand creams offer a thoughtful and practical gifts.
The Somerset Toiletry Company was founded in 1999 and has been developing beautiful body care and gifts ever since. Please read our about us page to find out more, or explore all our scented toiletries, home fragrances and more on our website.