"Nurses' Top Picks: Best Hand Creams for Busy Hands"

Nurses, often the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry, are known for their compassion, dedication, and, of course, their hardworking hands. These hands, which provide comfort, care, and support to countless patients, deserve the best possible care themselves. One of the most important aspects of this care is the use of an effective hand cream. But with numerous options available, what hand cream do nurses use, and why?

Why Hand Cream is Essential for Nurses

Nurses are constantly washing their hands, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and even cracking. Moreover, they often use harsh disinfectants and wear gloves, which can exacerbate these issues. A good hand cream can provide much-needed moisture, protect the skin barrier, and even help prevent infections. It's no surprise, then, that many nurses swear by certain hand creams.

What Nurses Look for in a Hand Cream

When choosing a hand cream, nurses typically look for products that are:

• Moisturizing: To replenish the lost moisture and keep their hands soft and smooth.
• Non-greasy: To ensure they can continue working without leaving residue on their hands or causing gloves to slip.
• Fast-absorbing: To minimize downtime between hand washing and resuming patient care.
• Fragrance-free or lightly scented: To avoid irritating sensitive skin or triggering allergies in patients.
• Antimicrobial: To help reduce the risk of infections, although this isn't a universal preference.

Top Hand Creams Used by Nurses

Based on numerous recommendations and reviews from nurses, the following hand creams stand out:

O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream

This heavy-duty cream is a favorite among nurses due to its ability to deeply moisturize and heal even severely dry, cracked hands. It's also non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and fragrance-free.

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream

This popular cream provides intense moisture and is known for its fast absorption. It's also non-greasy and fragrance-free, making it a great choice for nurses.

Burt's Bees Hand Salve

This rich, thick cream is infused with beeswax and botanical oils to provide deep moisture. It's also free from artificial fragrances and is certified natural by the Natural Products Association.

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizing Moisturizing Cream

This cream not only moisturizes but also sanitizes hands, thanks to its alcohol-based formula. It's fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and has a light, fresh scent.

Honorable Mentions

Other hand creams that have received positive reviews from nurses include:

• L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream
• Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS Hand Creme
• Superior Essentials Hand Cream

Each of these creams offers unique benefits, so the best one for you may depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Tips for Using Hand Cream Effectively

To get the most out of your hand cream, consider the following tips:

• Apply cream immediately after washing your hands to lock in moisture.
• Carry a small tube of cream with you during your shift for easy access.
• Consider using a heavier cream or an overnight treatment once or twice a week for extra nourishment.
• Don't forget to apply cream to your cuticles and the skin around your nails.

In conclusion, the best hand cream for nurses is one that effectively moisturizes, protects, and doesn't interfere with their ability to provide patient care. With so many options available, it's worth trying out a few to find the one that works best for you.