Do your hands show your age? Try these anti-ageing hand creams

Look at your hands for a moment. Palms down, observe the differences in each hand’s texture and appearance. Does the back of one have more freckles than the other? Does one seem duller; more wrinkled? There could be a very simple reason for it.

Many women pump make-up onto the back of their hand before applying it to their face. While this isn’t a bad thing (make-up artists do it too) it means that particular hand is benefitting from your foundation’s SPF while the other hand gets nada. If your left hand is constantly being protected from the elements, but your right hand isn’t, you’re bound to see differences between them.

Our hands show our age as much as our faces do. Take celebrities like Madonna and Sarah Jessica Parker, for example. Their faces appear bright and youthful after years of beauty treatments and skincare regimes; but their hands tell a different story. Years of sun exposure and the natural passing of time can cause the skin to sag, appear dry and veiny. Have you ever wondered by Madge always wears gloves?

Of course, it doesn’t actually matter what anyone’s hands look like, but if it’s something you’re conscious about there are a few things you can do. Some skin clinics offer invasive treatments such as fillers; which plump the hands and give a more youthful look. Laser treatment is available to those who have age spots, while sunspots can be reduced with chemical peels.

However, prevention is better than the cure. There are numerous anti-ageing hand creams on the market to keep your paws young and supple. Always check the ingredients on the back of the tube and lean towards products containing high SPF, antioxidants, and/or vitamin C. When it comes to SPF, ensure your cream is broad-spectrum. This means it will protect from UVA rays (the ones that lead to fine lines and wrinkles) and UVB rays, the ones that play a role in the development of skin cancer. Have a look at some of our favourite anti-ageing hand creams below:

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Anti-Ageing Hand Cream SPF25, €6.49

This non-greasy formula effectively reduces the appearance of brown spots.

Origins Plantscription Anti Ageing Hand Cream, €38.50

It contains an ingredient called ‘Crithmum’ which helps to repair damaged skin and boosts the production of collagen.

Clinique Sun Protection Body Cream SPF 40, €27

This cream can be used on your hands as well as the rest of the body. Its water-resistant formula is suitable for sensitive skin.

Dermalogica, AGE Smart Multivitamin Hand and Nail Treatment, €27.95

This one relieves signs of ageing on dry, rough hands and shields against environmental damage.

Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream, €32.95

The formula contains milk protein, hazel seed oil, rare anti-ageing omega 7, camellia, virgin plum and macadamia to leave hands radiant and soft to touch.

IMAGE Skincare VITAL C hydrating hand and body lotion, €49.50

This luxurious moisturiser has anti-ageing ingredients often reserved for the face. It’s particularly good for dry and sensitive skin.

While we have you here, be sure to listen to our new podcast, The Spill. This week’s episode talks about designer vaginas, beauty politics and bi-curiosity.