Retinol concentration: 0.25% | Key ingredients: oat extract, silver mushroom | Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is retinol cream good for your hands?
“Yes, retinol cream can be beneficial for the hands,” says Dr. Spearman. “Many people with mature skin focus on the face with treatments to look younger than their age there, but the hands can expose the truth.” Retinol helps stimulate collagen production, increase cell turnover, fade dark spots, and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, making it a great addition to your hand care routine.
However, proceed with caution, as “the skin on the back of the hand can be more sensitive to the side effects of retinol, like irritation, redness, and peeling,” she says. To avoid these issues, she recommends starting with one or two applications per week, working up to daily use. Always pair retinol with a moisturizer to keep skin hydrated, and don’t skip daily sunscreen, as retinol can increase sun sensitivity.
Where not to apply retinol
When applying retinol, it’s important to avoid certain areas to prevent irritation. “Steer clear of fingers and knuckles, as these areas experience more friction and are prone to increased sensitivity. Additionally, avoid applying retinol on broken or compromised skin, such as cuts or extremely dry patches, as it can exacerbate irritation,” says Dr. Spearman.
Can you put retinol on dry hands?
Yes, but, according to Dr. Spearman, you should not apply retinol on cracked or irritated areas, as it can worsen dryness or cause discomfort.
Is it better to put retinol on damp or dry skin?
“To minimize sensitivity, always ensure your skin is completely dry before application, as damp skin can enhance retinol’s potency and increase the risk of irritation,” says Dr. Spearman.
Meet the experts
- Dara Spearman, MD, board-certified dermatologist and the owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana
- Saami Khalifian, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of SOM Aesthetics in San Diego, CA
- Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best retinol hand creams, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance (or lack thereof), texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
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