5 Best Products for Dry Hands from Washing Too Much

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Hopefully, you’ve stepped up your hand washing game in light of recent events. Unfortunately, dry hands from washing too much can be the price we pay for good hygiene. Each time you wash your hands— especially when done thoroughly— you are stripping your skin of its natural oils that help keep your skin soft and hydrated.

Not only is your skin probably feeling dry, maybe even cracked, but your nails are probably taking a hit too. Here are the best products for dry hands that I’ve used to help do damage control.

Daily Carry Hand Lotion: Cetaphil DailyAdvance Lotion ($7.19)

This hand lotion is perfect for use throughout the day, as it sinks into the skin quickly without leaving any greasy residue. It’s fragrance-free and can be used all over the body. It’s convenient to throw in a purse or work bag, and can keep your hands hydrated for up to 24 hours.

Overnight Hand Treatment: Farmacy Honey Savior Repair Salve ($34)

If you’re experiencing severely dry hands, or have started to see cracking in dry areas, this rich ointment will make a huge difference. Made with honey, antioxidants, plus skin-loving vitamins and nutrients, this balm helps intensely hydrate and protect. Don’t let the higher price tag fool you: a pea-sized amount is more than enough to cover your hands. I recommend this as an overnight treatment because it is thick and leaves a very slight film on the hands which may transfer to clothes or other items.

Need a vegan option? Try the SpaRitual Geranium Cedarwood Body Salve!

Moisturizing Hand Soap: Dove Beauty Bar ($3.59/2-pack)

While I do suggest using antibacterial soap when necessary (in the kitchen and especially when returning home from shopping), switching to a moisturizing hand soap for regular in-home use will help you avoid dry hands. In our home, we’re using the Dove Beauty Bar which is made with mild cleanser and 1/4 moisturizing cream, so it won’t strip your skin. This bar helps you maintain the natural moisture of your hands and leaves them soft and smooth.

Nail Strengthening Serum: Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Vitamin Strength Serum ($4.99)

My nails definitely take the brunt of all the hand washing, becoming brittle and weak. I’ve been using this nail serum for a while to help with strength and growth, and it’s an even more important part of my beauty routine now. It uses Vitamins A, C & E and hydrolyzed protein actives to help nails resist damage and breaking.  

Nail Hardener Clear Coat: Londontown Kur Nail Hardener & Base Coat ($18)

Wearing nail polish, or at least a clear coat, will go a long way to protect your nails. You absolutely don’t need to splurge on this step, but the Kur Nail Hardener is a tried and true staple of mine. Its formula hydrates the nails and works to make them stronger and thicker. It lasts a while, even when worn on its own, and has outperformed all budget options I’ve tried. It’s worth the splurge for my already-weak nails.