I have sensitive skin and sometimes cracked hands. Is this cream safe to use? — Silky Hands Velvet Hands Cream 72 ml

This product is intended for hands that feel dry after washing, office work, cold weather or frequent contact with water. It contains moisturizing and soothing ingredients—panthenol, allantoin, aloe vera, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, avocado oil and olive-derived emollients—which can make the texture feel gentler on skin exposed to wind, soap and sanitizers. That said, “gentle” does not mean it will suit absolutely everyone, especially if the skin is already damaged or very reactive.

If your skin is very sensitive to fragrance, check the ingredient list before regular use. The product information also advises that on irritated or cracked skin, any scented hand cream should be introduced carefully, and use should be stopped if stinging or redness appears. A practical approach is to do a patch test on a small area of the forearm for a day or two before applying it to your hands. If there is no itching, burning or redness, it may be fine to use; if any reaction appears, discontinue and, if necessary, consult a specialist.

This cream is a cosmetic product meant for hydration and comfort only. It is not intended to treat cracked skin, eczema, dermatitis or any other skin condition, and it should never be used as a replacement for medical care. If your hands crack deeply, bleed, or do not improve with regular moisturizing, see a doctor or dermatologist. If you have a chronic skin condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take medication, consult a specialist before adding a new cosmetic product to your routine.