This $13 dermatologist-approved hand cream saved my skin from dry winter weather

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As someone who struggles with dry hands at the best of times, the current climate of increased hand washing and sanitizing has been tough on my skin.

Normally, I’d turn to one cult-classic moisturizer to help soothe and hydrate my skin, but I recently decided to switch things up and opt for a different, dermatologist-approved cream to protect my hands this winter.

The bestselling cream hails from French brand La Roche-Posay, and is an affordable solution for banishing dry skin for good.

What is it

At just $13, the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Mains hand cream has become my new go-to for keeping my hands soft and moisturized. Made with a fragrance-free blend of moisturizing shea butter, Vitamin B3, and glycerin, it effectively helps to repair dry, cracked skin while leaving smooth, hydrated hands behind.

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Its quick absorbing formula easily sinks into the skin and lasts for up to three washes with water before needing to be reapplied. It’s also suitable for use on irritated or sensitive skin, making this a must-have for anyone who works with their hands.

SHOP IT: Amazon, $13

Why I love it

I was first introduced to this hand cream when interviewing Dr. Sonya Abdulla, MD, FRCPC, a dermatologist at Toronto’s Dermatology on Bloor clinic, who recommended it as one of her top picks for dry hands. Months went by before I actually picked up a bottle for myself, but after using it for the past few weeks, I wish I had jumped on board with it sooner.

I’d often end up with stubborn hangnails that would peel away, leaving behind raw and painful skin beneath. None of the other hand creams I’d tried ever fully improved the situation — until La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast Mains. After just a few days of use, I noticed that the skin around my nails was much smoother and more hydrated (without a hangnail in sight!), which also helped prevent my nails from becoming brittle and cracking as they grew.

If I go a day or two without applying the Cicaplast Mains cream, I notice a huge difference in the look and feel of my skin, so it’s safe to say that this hand cream has earned a permanent spot in my skincare routine. It also has zero fragrance, which is a definite plus if you’re like me and are prone to headaches from strongly scented products.

What others are saying

It appears that I’m not the only fan of La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast Mains cream, which has earned a 4.7 star rating from more than 800 Amazon reviewers.

“I am a server and wash my hands close to 50 times a shift with harsh soap...they get so dry and cracked to the point of bleeding in the winter months. I’ve tried so many creams with no result. This is the first cream that has actually provided relief,” reads one five-star review.

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“I suffer from dry skin on the hands and it's always getting cut and scraped accidentally throughout the day, this has helped. I also have very dry skin (flaking) around the cuticles and the excessive hand-washing and sanitizing from COVID hasn't helped. This really moisturizes and softens the skin while giving it a protective barrier,” reads another.

The verdict

At $13 for a 50mL bottle, some shoppers have complained that this hand cream isn’t the best value for your money, but luckily a little goes a long way in order to soothe your skin. The compact size is also ideal for throwing into a jacket pocket or purse for hydration on the go.

If you’re looking for a new addition to your winter skincare routine, this is one product that’s definitely worth trying. Trust me, your hands will thank you.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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