It is not always easy to know which criteria to prioritize when choosing a hand cream. A dermatologist guides you to find the product that suits you.
You need a cream with strong moisturizing power
For Dr Marie-Estelle Roux, dermatologist, it is essential to choose a very moisturizing cream for your hands. “ You need a cream with strong moisturizing, effective power, which prevents dry hands due to the cold. You must also pay attention to tolerance, check that there is no allergenic or irritant agent to which you are sensitive in the composition. »
In terms of the cosmetic quality of the cream, Dr Roux gives a tip: “ A good cream is one that absorbs quickly, does not stick, and does not leave fingers greasy, so you can quickly use your hands afterwards. »
Depending on the skin problems you encounter, you can also opt for a cream with specific active ingredients. “ Some creams have, for example, anti-stain agents. There are also barrier creams, often silicone-based, which create a protective film against aggressive agents such as detergents. These creams are interesting for people who tend to have eczema on their hands. »
Hand creams that have proven themselves
There are many hand creams offered by cosmetic laboratories and brands. For example, you will find Eucerin’s UreaRepair Plus cream in drugstores, which contains 5% Urea to soothe very dry and damaged hands. Uriage’s Bariéderm Cica cream also helps repair cracks, without sticking.
Also in pharmacies or parapharmacies, you will find Cicaplast Mains cream from La Roche-Posay, which acts as a barrier against external aggressions and soothes the skin. Finally, it is possible to find Nuxe Cica Honey Dream cream in supermarkets or pharmacies, which nourishes very dry skin.
Beyond cream, how to protect your hands?
Putting cream on your hands every day in winter, for prevention or to rehydrate them, is a good thing. But it is also possible to take other effective actions on a daily basis to protect your hands from the cold.
« It is important to start by covering your entire body, from your head to your neck and toes. » recalls the dermatologist. “ If the rest of the body is warm, it will be easier to warm your fingertips. In addition to the hat and scarf, you must wear gloves outside. But also wear gloves inside when washing dishes or when using aggressive products, to avoid aggravating drying of the skin. »
Diet also comes into play. To supplement the hydration of your skin, Dr Roux recommends consuming fruits for vitamins (oranges, clementines, lemons), as well as products including omegas and good fatty acids: “ almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, fatty fish and cold sea fish. »
Source: www.topsante.com
