I dread winter every single year. Sure, there’s the obvious discomfort—the cold air, constant shivering, bulky layers, and the struggle of keeping a bag on your shoulder over a thick coat. But what really gets me is the toll winter takes on my hands. As soon as temperatures drop, my skin becomes dry, cracked, itchy, and painfully irritated, especially after frequent handwashing.
Cold and flu season only makes matters worse. With packed subway rides and daily commutes, hand hygiene becomes non-negotiable. Unfortunately, washing your hands over and over again strips away natural oils, leaving skin vulnerable. While the weather is beyond control, choosing the right moisturizing hand soap can make a noticeable difference, helping hands feel soft, smooth, and nourished instead of tight and damaged.
Why a Moisturizing Hand Soap Matters
“You can’t overdo hygiene, but you can over-strip your skin,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman. According to her, frequent washing removes essential oils that protect the skin barrier, often leading to cracking, dryness, and irritation. This is especially common during colder months or for anyone who washes their hands repeatedly throughout the day.
A well-formulated moisturizing hand soap cleans effectively while also supporting the skin’s natural barrier. Ingredients that attract and lock in moisture help maintain hydration, allowing hands to stay healthy, resilient, and comfortable even with constant washing.
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How We Chose the Best Moisturizing Hand Soaps
Finding the right formula is essential for keeping hands clean without sacrificing skin health. The most effective options include hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, aloe vera, and shea butter. At the same time, it’s important to avoid harsh sulfates that can worsen dryness and sensitivity.
These soaps are known for their creamy lather, skin-softening finish, and pleasant scents that never feel overpowering. Whether you prefer a fragrance-free formula or a spa-like experience with notes of bergamot and sandalwood, there’s a suitable option for every skin type and preference.
Our Top Picks for Moisturizing Hand Soaps
Femmue Flower Infusion Hand Wash
One pump of this hand wash instantly creates a luxury hotel-like experience. Infused with rose and jasmine essential oils, its pH-balanced formula leaves hands feeling smooth, soft, and refreshed after every wash.
Scent: Rose and jasmine
Key ingredients: Aloe vera, camellia japonica flower extract, centella asiatica, glycerin
Amazon rating: 4.4/5
An ELLE editor shares that this formula has helped combat winter dryness without stripping the skin, while delivering an incredible, long-lasting scent.
Evolvetogether Restorative Hand Wash
This hand wash is known for its rich, creamy lather and deeply hydrating feel. It combines moisturizing ingredients with a warm, woody fragrance that feels especially comforting during colder months.
Scent: Cardamom, violet, vetiver, cedarwood
Key ingredients: Amino acids, antioxidants, plant-based glycerin
Bluemercury rating: 4.8/5
Editors praise its ability to deliver lasting hydration, even after heavy kitchen or dishwashing tasks.
Aesop Hand Wash for Sensitive Skin
Designed with sensitive skin in mind, this gentle formula cleans effectively without causing dryness. Its balanced blend of botanical ingredients makes it suitable for all skin types.
Scent: Citrus, woody, herbaceous
Key ingredients: Mandarin rind, rosemary leaf, cedar atlas
Amazon rating: 4.6/5
Reviewers highlight its earthy, refined fragrance and how little product is needed for a thorough cleanse.
Moroccanoil Hand Wash
Fans of Moroccanoil’s haircare line will recognize this signature scent instantly. The formula delivers high-end hydration while leaving hands softly fragranced.
Scent: Amber, magnolia, woods
Key ingredients: Argan oil, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Amazon rating: 4.6/5
Users report that regular use helps prevent chapping and cracking, even in harsh winter conditions.
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Hand Soap
This classic option offers excellent value without compromising on quality. Made with essential oils and plant-based ingredients, it keeps hands clean, hydrated, and comfortable.
Scent: Rain water
Key ingredients: Aloe vera, olive oil
Amazon rating: 4.7/5
Many users appreciate its gentle cleansing power and balanced scent, making it a staple for everyday use.
Malin + Goetz Bergamot Hand Wash
This versatile formula works as both a hand soap and body wash. Its foaming gel texture cleanses thoroughly while maintaining skin hydration.
Scent: Bergamot
Key ingredients: Glycerin, amino acids, citrus oils
Amazon rating: 4.6/5
Longtime users describe it as silky, hydrating, and efficient, with just one pump delivering ample lather.
Hotel Lobby Signature Hand Wash
Beautifully packaged and equally luxurious in feel, this hand wash delivers velvety hydration with every use.
Scent: White petals, bergamot, citrus
Key ingredients: Glycerin, aloe, jojoba oil
Neiman Marcus rating: 4.8/5
Dr. Engelman notes that this is one of her personal favorites for keeping hands soft, smooth, and well-hydrated.
Byredo Suede Hand Wash
This lightweight yet nourishing formula is enriched with conditioning ingredients and features the brand’s iconic Suede fragrance.
Scent: Pear, bergamot, aldehydes
Key ingredients: Glycerin, xylitol
Nordstrom rating: 4.3/5
Reviewers describe it as a luxurious everyday indulgence that fills the room with a clean, refined scent.
Ouai Hand Wash
Featuring biodegradable jojoba beads, this formula gently exfoliates while nourishing oils create a creamy, moisturizing lather.
Scent: Citrus fruits, rose, magnolia, linden blossom
Key ingredients: Castor oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, rosehip oil
Amazon rating: 3.9/5
Users love the spa-like experience it provides with every wash.
Joonbyrd Moisturizing Hand Wash
This premium option combines hydration, microbiome support, and antioxidant protection in one elegant formula.
Scent: Amber, jasmine, brown sugar, orange
Key ingredients: Panthenol, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, apple ferment
Brand rating: 5/5
Customers consistently mention how it leaves hands feeling comfortably hydrated after each use.
How This List Was Curated
As a trusted source for fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com evaluates products through hands-on testing, expert consultations, and detailed review analysis. For this guide, beauty writer Emma Aerin Becker worked closely with board-certified dermatologists, tested each product personally, and reviewed customer feedback to identify the most effective moisturizing hand soaps available.
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