Hand cream, or crema de manos in Spanish, is a product that is intended to moisturize and soften the skin on the hands. When shopping for hand cream, it is important to look for nourishing ingredients that will sustain softer hands for longer and wont deliver unwanted side effects and toxins where they dont belong. Here are some positive and negative aspects of hand cream ingredients:
Positive ingredients:
- Glycerin: A humectant found in many moisturizers, glycerin helps increase the water content of the outer layers of the skin by pulling moisture from the air and the deeper layers of skin.
- Lactic acid: An alpha-hydroxy acid commonly derived from milk that gently exfoliates to remove dead skin cells, making it great for your hands. It can also stimulate collagen production.
- Cold pressed fruit and plant oils: These are natural and nourishing ingredients that can sustain softer hands for longer.
- Aloe vera juice and flower waters: These are natural skin-soothers that can help moisturize and soften the skin on the hands.
- Shea butter: This is a rich hand treatment that is packed with essential fatty acids and healthy fats. It can help protect the skin and is a good source of Vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant effective at reducing oxidative damage and UV damage.
Negative ingredients:
- Parabens and phthalates: These are artificial preservatives that are known endocrine disruptors and have been banned in many European countries.
- Perfumes: These can cause skin irritation and are best avoided.
- Alcohols: These can dry out the skin and should be avoided.
- Silicones: These can clog pores and should be avoided.
It is important to note that the safety of hand creams is established by selection of ingredients that are safe and suitable for this purpose. When shopping for hand cream, it is recommended to opt for non-toxic alternatives that are free from harmful ingredients.