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Writer's pictureLotta Kasse

Hand cream vs Hand lotion: the main differences



Although they may sound and look similar, there are some interesting differences between the two. The article will explain how they differ from one another and will look at hand cream vs hand lotion :)

To maintain healthy skin, it's important to keep it moisturized regularly, but this task can be difficult. The market is currently filled with so many products. Choosing between a moisturising lotion and a hand cream can be tricky. Let me help you decide!

In this post, you'll learn about each, and how they differ, so that you can make an informed decision. Are we ready to get started? I'm sure you are!


The importance of taking care of our hands

Every day, our hands are exposed to water, sunlight, chemicals, etc. You even slather your bath and skin care products on with your hands. From typing to washing, we use them for everything.

Hands are the first place to show signs of ageing. Even though our hands are the most used part of our body, they are unfortunately the least cared for (as I usually mention). Our hands are not noticed until they become dry, chapped, or damaged.


By neglecting our hands, we leave them vulnerable to signs of ageing such as pigmentation, wrinkles, and dehydration.

That is when hand creams and lotions come to our rescue! :)

Let's find out what each of them does to our hands and what are the differences between them.


Hand Cream


Hand creams are high-viscosity products designed to moisturise and soften dry and cracked hands. Due to their high viscosity, hand creams contain a higher percentage of oil than water. Because of this, hand creams have a thicker texture than lotions. It is recommended for people with dry skin as it gives them a bit more coverage. Winter is the most common time to use hand creams.


What about using body cream on our hands?


There is a significant difference between the skin on your hands and the skin on the rest of your body. The skin on the back of your hands is much thinner than the skin on the front.

You don't get the deep hydration and protection your hands need from your regular body cream.


The purpose of hand cream is to nourish and protect the skin on your hands. Your hands will feel soft and supple after using a good hand cream. Additionally, your hands will be repaired and undone from neglect.

Contrary to popular belief, you can apply any body cream to your hands since the consistency is the same, however, you might not expect it to deliver similar results.


Hand Lotion


The purpose of hand lotion is to moisturize the hard-working skin on our hands. Water content is the main indicator of a lotion. Water makes up a high percentage of their consistency. This consistency level allows it to spread quickly on a larger surface. During the summer months, hand lotion is a lighter alternative. A hand lotion is recommended for people with 'normal' skin types.

For protecting and nourishing the skin, hand creams are recommended more than hand lotions.


Is it possible to use body lotion on our hands?


You can but then again it will not deliver the same results as you wish. I understand that the convenience of using one product on your hands is unquestionable when you have body lotion on hand. Nevertheless, sometimes our hands need more richness than the thin formulation of body lotions can provide.


Aside from that, hand lotions also contain some ingredients, such as lactic acid, which moisturize your elbows and other tough areas of your skin. It is important to keep in mind that certain body lotions may not contain this ingredient.


The main difference between the two:

Hand Cream vs Hand Lotio

Lotion vs cream has been a topic of discussion for a long time. There are some differences between the two, which should be taken into account before you decide between them.

Here are some of the main differences:


-CONSISTENCY

One way to distinguish cream from lotion is by its consistency. Since hand creams contain so much oil, they have a thicker texture. Because body lotions are high in water, they are thinner.


-TEXTURE

Because hand creams contain a high percentage of oil, their texture will be thicker. Generally, lotions and body lotions are thinner because they contain a lot of water.


-PERIOD OF USAGE

It may also be a matter of usage.

Summer is a great time to use lighter lotions. The light texture does not leave hands sticky or greasy. In contrast, thicker creams tend to be oilier and denser and work better in colder weather.


-DELIVERY

Last but not least, lotions are quickly absorbed by your skin.

In the winter, thicker creams enriched with shea butter will stay on your skin longer and create a protective layer.


*Benefits:



The use of hand cream or lotion should be a part of your daily routine. You can carry small hand creams in your purse because they are available in small sizes. It allows you to replenish your hands throughout the day, or after you wash them.


By using hand cream regularly, you can prevent premature ageing as well as boost moisture levels and skin elasticity. Hand creams will also protect your hands from UV exposure, which leads to cracking and pigmentation.


The following are some other benefits:

  • -A smooth, hydrated complexion

  • -Provide sun protection

  • -Repair damaged skin

  • -Stress-relieving

  • -Maintaining your nails


-Key points to take from:





In conclusion, hand cream and lotion have some differences. It is important that you consider your properties and what you would like to achieve with your hands before choosing one. After all, you are taking care of your hands regardless of what you decide to use. 😊

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