How to Choose the Best Hand Cream for Dry, Cracked Hands
Dry, cracked hands are more than just uncomfortable — they can be painful, irritating, and hard to manage, especially if you’re washing your hands often or working in harsh environments. Choosing the right hand cream makes all the difference, but with so many options on the shelves, it can be hard to know where to start.
This guide breaks down exactly what to look for (and what to avoid) when finding the best hand cream for dry, cracked hands — plus why our Hemp Hand Protection Cream has been a trusted favourite for over a decade.
1. Look for Barrier-Repairing Ingredients
Dry, cracked skin often means your skin barrier is compromised. Look for creams that include omega-rich oils or humectants to repair and replenish:
- Hemp Seed Oil – Restores balance with essential fatty acids.
- Macadamia Oil – Deeply nourishes without clogging pores.
- Hyaluronic Acid – Locks in moisture for lasting hydration.
These ingredients don’t just sit on top of your skin — they absorb deeply to provide real, lasting results.
2. Avoid Heavy Silicones and Fillers
Some creams rely on dimethicone or other silicones to create the feeling of hydration, without truly nourishing the skin. While they can create a temporary barrier, they won’t repair or hydrate over time.
Instead, look for plant-based emulsifiers and stabilisers like Olivem 1000 and stearic acid, which work with your skin rather than against it.
3. Check for Synthetic Fragrances
If you have sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, synthetic fragrances are a common trigger for irritation. Opt for naturally scented creams instead.
At Made In Hemp, we use a zesty, fresh blend of pure essential oils — lemon-scented tea tree, sweet orange, and lime — that not only smell amazing but also have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Look for Small-Batch, Fresh Formulas
Hand creams that are handmade in small batches ensure higher quality and fresher products. This is especially important with natural formulas that avoid harsh preservatives or stabilisers.
Our Hemp Hand Protection Cream is made and packed by hand in Long Jetty, NSW — ensuring consistent quality in every tin.
5. Choose a Formula for Everyday Use
The best hand cream isn’t just for emergencies — it’s one you can apply daily without feeling greasy or sticky.
Our lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving your hands hydrated and protected without that heavy residue, making it perfect for:
- Nurses and healthcare professionals
- Hairdressers and mechanics
- Gardeners, hospitality, and anyone with hands that work hard every day
Why Made In Hemp is Different
For over a decade, our Hemp Hand Protection Cream has been a go-to for dry, cracked, and over-washed hands. With fewer than 10 carefully chosen ingredients, it delivers real results without the unnecessary extras found in many mainstream creams.