13 Best Hand Creams and Serums For the Year 2025

What Are Hand Creams and Serums?

Hand creams and serums aim to keep your hands hydrated, and heal dry, cracked skin for a soft, smooth, moisturized surface. Often rich in antioxidants, antimicrobial agents, and anti-inflammatory properties, these formulas repair damage to the skin barrier, kill germs to prevent you from getting infections, decrease redness and inflammation, and help heal any existing skin conditions you may have.

As you may know, hand creams and serums can also tighten the skin on your hands to smooth wrinkles and fine lines. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about choosing the best hand cream or serum on the market, and give you our selections for the best dermatologist-recommended hand cream and serum for hands.

Our Top Hand Creams and Serum Picks

It’s important to note that not every Hand Cream will work for everyone, and your results may vary.

Which Hand Cream Should I Use?

Are you ready to hear about some of the Best Hand Cream recommended by dermatologists on the market? We’ve researched numerous brands to seek out the most promising products in the industry. Here we present the best hand creams and serums available today.

One of the best hand serum for wrinkles, The Ultra Renew Hand Rejuvenating Serum is formed using cutting-edge ingredient technology. This formula works to visibly plump up thinning and crepey skin, smoothen wrinkles, and diminish dark spots, resulting in noticeably more youthful-looking hands that you can feel confident about.

The Reviewers Say:

As a senior citizen, I don’t have high expectations for skincare products to work wonders. However, after trying the hand serum, I am impressed with how it feels on my skin and I can see a visible reduction in the appearance of my age spots. ~Stevie

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 1.35 fl oz (40 ml) | Form: Serum | Brand: Beverly Hills MD

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The award-winning Shea Youth Hand Cream is one of the best hand creams for aging hands which is designed to combat the visible signs of ageing on your hands. Its unique formula blends nourishing Shea Butter and potent Immortelle Essential Oil to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, resulting in smoother, more even-toned, and radiant-looking hands that appear plumper and brighter.

The Reviewers Say:

During the holidays, I purchased my first tube of this product, and within a few weeks, I noticed a remarkable improvement in the texture of my hands’ skin. It is now less dry and wrinkled, and my cuticles are also in excellent condition. Although I am typically doubtful of such products, I am pleased that I took a chance on this one. This is the best hand cream that I would prefer. ~Melinda

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 2.7 fl oz (80 ml) | Form: Serum-in-Cream | Brand: L’Occitane

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O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream is designed to provide healing, relief, and repair to hands that are extremely dry and cracked. When the natural protective barrier of the skin is compromised, it can result in dry and cracked skin. O’Keeffe’s products are specifically designed to establish a shield on the skin’s surface that retains moisture and helps to keep the skin well-moisturised.

The Reviewers Say:

One of the best hand creams. This product doesn’t leave a greasy residue after application, and the scent is very subtle and neutral. Additionally, a little bit of the product goes a long way, so it seems like it will last for a while. While I’ve only been using it for a week, I’m hopeful that it will continue to provide benefits for my skin over time. ~Thomas

Key Facts

Container Type: Jar | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 2.7 fl oz (80 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: O’Keeffe’s

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Neutrogena Hand Cream is a reliable solution for dry and chapped hands, featuring a refreshing, subtle scent. Its potent, lotion-based formula has undergone clinical testing, and it works quickly to repair dry skin, leaving a noticeable improvement in texture and appearance. With just one use, hands feel velvety and supple.

The Reviewers Say:

I am fond of this hand cream; it surpasses all other alternatives I have used. If only I had discovered it two decades earlier, as it is the sole product that effectively combats the harsh winters in Chicago. This is the best hand lotion as I sense a barrier between my skin and the harsh environment. Furthermore, it is accurate that only a small amount is required to achieve desirable results. ~Barbarain

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 2 fl oz (60 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: Neutrogena

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The Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength hand salve for dry skin is free from harmful parabens and gluten, making it a safe and healthy choice for your hands. Its nourishing formula, enriched with Shea Butter, Avocado Oil and Sesame Seed Oil, offers long-lasting care to both active and dry hands, leaving them feeling soft, moisturised and well-cared.

The Reviewers Say:

As a pet groomer, my hands tend to become dry and cracked, especially during the winter. However, this is absolutely the best hand lotion! It effectively moisturises my skin and makes it soft without leaving any greasy residue. Moreover, its long-lasting effect is truly impressive! ~Mariak

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 2.5 fl oz (75 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: Kiehl’s

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CeraVe Therapeutic Hand Cream is designed to soothe and hydrate the skin. Its unique formula contains a blend of three essential ceramides that work in harmony to preserve the skin’s moisture and enhance its natural protective barrier. The cream also utilises MVE technology, which gradually releases moisturising ingredients for long-lasting hydration. With its non-greasy and fast-absorbing texture, this cream promotes silky-smooth, supple hands making it one of the best hand creams. Its formulation includes dimethicone, a skin protectant, as well as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

The Reviewers Say:

This hand cream is very pleasant to use as it is quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving any greasy residue. Additionally, it is fragrance-free and comes in a compact packaging that is convenient for carrying in a purse. ~Zarinat

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 3 fl oz (90 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: CeraVe

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The Chanel La Creme Main hand cream is designed to provide moisturization, brightening, and protection to the skin. It has a gentle fragrance and comes in an innovative, easy-to-carry design. The formula is quickly absorbed into the skin without leaving any stickiness. It improves skin protection by 40%* and hydration by 45%*. Furthermore, it enhances nail strength by 70%**.

The Reviewers Say:

This hand cream is the perfect size for my purse, and I was introduced to it by a friend who gave it to me as a gift. It effectively softens my hands and has a lovely fragrance that I adore. I liked it so much that I purchased another one to take with me while travelling. ~Susie

Key Facts

Container Type: Jar | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 1.7 fl oz (50 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: Chanel

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The Eucerin Advanced Repair Hand Cream is specially formulated for the hands, containing a blend of Ceramide-3 and Natural Moisturizing Factors. This unique combination works to repair dry skin and provide the much-needed moisture for the hands. With its long-lasting relief, the cream effectively addresses very dry skin concerns.

The Reviewers Say:

Having used this hand cream for years, I can confidently say that there is no other product that is as calming and soothing for my hands. The cream not only repairs dryness but also creates a silky and protective barrier that is crucial, especially when frequent hand washing is necessary. ~Pamela

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 2.7 fl oz (80 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: Eucerin

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The La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hands is designed to cater to individuals with dry to very dry hands. This hand cream effectively moisturises and nourishes the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. The presence of shea butter in the cream provides immediate relief to dry and damaged hands. It is non-greasy and provides up to 48 hours of hydration, making it suitable for individuals who frequently engage in activities that cause their hands to lose moisture, such as frequent hand-washing and exposure to cold weather.

The Reviewers Say:

I have been using this hand cream, which effectively keeps my hands soft and beautiful like a baby’s skin. Despite being thick and nourishing, it feels lightweight when applied. Over time, I have observed a significant improvement in the overall health of my hands’ skin. This is the best hand cream for aging hands. ~Anad

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 1.69 fl oz (50 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: La Roche Posay

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With the latest ingredient technology, StriVectin Volumizing hand cream has been improved to provide three distinctive benefits: plumping, brightening, and moisturising, making it a deeply nourishing formula and the best hand cream. It effectively targets dryness, crepiness, and uneven skin tone, particularly on delicate skin that is frequently exposed. Its smart formula is enriched with patented NIA-114™, which has been clinically proven to enhance the skin barrier, resulting in long-lasting moisture and protection against dryness.

The Reviewers Say:

I was in need of a product that can effectively moisturise my extremely dry hands, as they are difficult to keep hydrated. And fortunately I got one of the best hand creams so far. ~Julie L

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 2 fl oz (60 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: StriVectin

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The SERUMKIND Black Blossom Hand Serum is a nourishing solution designed to rejuvenate the skin cells on your hands. Its rich blend of moisturising ingredients effectively hydrates and softens dry, cracked, and rough skin. This is the best anti aging hand cream which features Black Tulip Powder, Beta-Glucan, and Acetyl Octopeptide-3, which work together to form a low-irritant formula with a pH level similar to your skin. This creates a protective moisture layer that helps maintain your skin barrier for healthy and nourished hands. We have mostly noticed positive serumkind black blossom hand serum reviews which indicates its efficacy.

The Reviewers Say:

The packaging of the product resembles that of a hair dye tube, which requires piercing with the cap. It is an environmentally-friendly option as it is made of metal. The texture of the hand cream feels delightful on the skin and effectively softens it. ~D. M.

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 1.69 fl oz (50 ml) | Form: Cream | Brand: Serumkind

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La Mer has extended its expertise in serums to a highly visible and expressive part of the body. The treatment is luxuriously soft and smooth, designed to enhance renewal and brightening of the skin. The serum strengthens delicate skin and imparts an immediate radiance. Over time, hands become softer and show a reduction in visible discoloration.

The Reviewers Say:

Initially, I had doubts about buying this product, but considering the exceptional quality of other La Mer items I’ve used, I gave it a try. After applying this hand serum every day for roughly a month, I was pleasantly surprised to see a significant reduction in brown spots on my hands – they’re almost gone! ~Stashe

Key Facts

Container Type: Tube | Skin Type: Suitable for Dry Skin | Size: 1.62 fl oz (48 ml) | Form: Serum | Brand: La Mer

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Aveda Hand Relief Renewal Serum is effective in improving the texture of hands by visibly reducing the appearance of fine lines. The serum also moisturises the skin, and Andiroba oil is used to protect the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

The Reviewers Say:

After discovering an unused bottle and using it up, I realised that I couldn’t live without the hand relief renewal serum anymore. For a long time, my hands had been neglected, but now they feel revitalised and rejuvenated. This is the best hand cream I have ever used. ~Maijalena

Key Facts

Container Type: Bottle | Skin Type: For All Skin Types | Size: 1.5 fl oz (45 ml) | Form: Serum | Brand: Aveda

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Pros and Cons

How Did We Evaluate Hand Creams and Serums?

Our team of board-certified dermatologists evaluated dozens of existing hand creams and serums based on a set of criteria to decide on the best brands.

These are some of the key factors we looked at, and they are the same characteristics you should look for when selecting the best hand cream or serum for you.

Manufacturer Reputation

While there are some newer companies or little-known brands which may produce very high-quality products, generally speaking it’s best to purchase from a known company that already has an excellent reputation for producing safe, high-level skin care. In our selection, we have chosen brands and manufacturers that are highly reputable.

Ingredients

When evaluating hand creams, our team looked carefully at the ingredients list to ensure that everything included has benefits backed by scientific research. In addition, we selected brands that were all-natural and low in artificial or chemical additives that could lead to skin irritation.

Value For Cost

We compared the prices of different brands, and in particular we examined the price in relation to what each product has to offer to see if the formula was worth the cost. All of the brands we selected have high value for the price.

Return Policy/Guarantee

Any company that believes in their products will give you an adequate amount of time to try it out to see if it works for you. We looked for brands that offer a minimum of a 30-60 day return policy or guarantee, and you should too.

Safety

A company that makes safe products should carry out their production and testing in an FDA-registered facility following strict safety standards, ideally GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), so that was an important factor for us. We also chose formulas which were as natural as possible, and free of harmful agents that could lead to skin irritation.

Customer Reviews

Insights from user reviews can be extremely helpful in learning about the pros and cons of a product, side effects, and the general customer experience. We only chose products that had excellent feedback from users.

How Do They Work?

Hand creams and serums contain deeply hydrating ingredients which moisturize the hands and alleviate dryness and cracked, flaky skin. The liquid also plumps the skin to smooth signs of age like wrinkles and fine lines on the surface, as we explained in our review of the best facial serums.

A study by Günter Kampf and Joachim Ennen published in BMC Dermatology concluded that using hand cream regularly can attenuate the dryness that comes from frequent hand washing (1).

Some formulas have ingredients which increase levels of collagen in the skin, which tighten the surface to further smooth wrinkles and lines. A review of studies in Dermatology Practical and Conceptual by Hend Al-Atif found that collagen applied topically or given orally can contribute to skin anti-aging (2).

Hand creams and serums often have antimicrobial benefits, helping to kill harmful germs and microbes to decrease the risk of infection. They are also high in anti-inflammatory agents which reduce redness and swelling and help heal skin conditions.

These formulas are also high in antioxidants which destroy free radicals on the skin and lessen oxidative stress levels. This helps repair damage to the skin barrier, boost the skin’s immunity, and protect from environmental agents like UV rays.

A review published in the Journal of Dermatological Sciences by Hitoshi Masaki explored the anti-aging properties of antioxidants in the skin (3).

What Are Some of the Ingredients To Look For?

These are some of the key ingredients in the best hand creams and serums:

Shea Butter

This is the fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree, and it has deep hydrating properties for the skin. As we documented in our content titled Face Moisturizers for Men, Shea butter can eliminate dryness, and it’s very high in anti-inflammatory agents which help soothe, heal skin conditions, and decrease redness and swelling.

Shea butter is also rich in free radical-killing antioxidants which repair damage to the skin barrier and protect it from harm. A study by S. Essengue Belibi, et al published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that shea butter was helpful in healing eczema and softening the skin (4).

Niacinamide

Niacinamide – Niacinamide is Vitamin B3, and it can shrink the size of pores, protect and repair the skin barrier, and heal conditions like acne and eczema. It also helps form a barrier to keep moisture locked in, for deep hydrating benefits.

In our content on best facial mists we noted that Niacinamide boosts the synthesis of collagen, and the higher levels help to tighten the skin and smooth sighs of age like wrinkles and fine lines. The best hand cream for wrinkles and dryness products tend to include niacinamide.

A review published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology examined the topical mechanisms of niacinamide and its use in dermatology (5).

Sunflower Seed Oil

This deeply hydrating oil comes from pressing the seeds of the sunflower, for rich moisturizing skin benefits and elimination of dryness. It also plumps the skin to smooth signs of age like wrinkles and fine lines.

This oil also has anti-inflammatory benefits which soothe inflamed, rough, red skin and help to heal skin conditions. Its high antioxidant count can repair and protect the skin barrier.

An article published in Applied Science Reports by Mihaela Stoia and Simona Oancea looked at the evidence-based benefits of topically applied sunflower oil (6).

Glycerin

This is a compound which is a humectant, meaning it draws a tremendous amount of liquid from the air to deeply hydrate the skin, eliminate dryness and rough patches, and plump to smooth wrinkles and fine lines.

It has particular benefits for smoothing right patches on the surface of the skin, making it great for the hands. A review published in the British Journal of Dermatology by J W Fluhr, R Darlenski and C Surber explored the origin and function of glycerin in the skin (7).

How Do You Use Hand Creams and Serums?

Generally these formulas are easy to use, you just take some of the product into your hands and rub it in until its completely absorbed. You can use most hand creams and serums multiple times daily, but do check the instructions for the specific product you are using.

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