Winter is harsh.  It’s harsh on your skin, your hair, and your cute suede boots.  When it comes to Winter hands, I get dry, chapped skin.  Sometimes it cracks, or bleeds, or just feels generally sore.  It’s something I’ve inherited from Dear Old Dad: super soft, sensitive, delicate skin (Thanks, Dad).

One of my favorites is Aveda Hand Relief. This rich moisture therapy soothes dry, chapped hands and leaves them noticeably softer and smoother. Hydrating plant emollients, humectants, exfoliating fruit acids and anti-oxidants—including vitamins A and E—help diminish signs of aging and provide optimal relief. This is something I can get behind. Ever see those ladies with the super young faces and the crypt-keeper hands? Horrors! Aveda Hand Relief also increases moisture levels and elasticity in skin with continued use. $19

One seemingly crazy solution I learned from Dad (who knew Dad would have beauty tips?) is Bag Balm – a treatment originally intended for bovine beautification! Originally intended to soothe cow udders, this antiseptic ointment is great for chapped hands, feet, and I hear even on sunburn and windburn! It really helped with the chapped hands I had after being out bare-handed in below freezing weather. At around $6 at drugstores, how can you go wrong?

Another tip I picked up was from my Avon lady. Avon Moisture Therapy Intensive Hand Cream heals hands – fast!  For around $5 for a 4.2 ounce tube, it’s a great deal and fits in most purses (it also comes in travel sizes).   You’ll be shocked at how thick and luxurious it feels when you apply it – especially at this price point.  You can buy it online, or call up your local Avon representative!

Last, but not least, is my favorite from Bath & Body Works. True Blue® Spa Lay It On Thick™ Hand Cream is fragrance-free and contains rich shea butter. I love shea butter in lotions and creams. This ultra-hydrating hand cream softens and nourishes the skin on your hands as well as your cuticles with its rich shea butter and moisturizing vitamin E. I just love the True Blue Spa line at Bath & Body Works.  They have everything for your hands, feet, and body.  Nice.  $13 for 2.5 ounce size or 2 for $20.