What makes this cream different from a lighter hand lotion? — Hand cream with oil for dry skin "Simply Essentials" Mellor&Russell, 75 ml

The source explains that oils are especially valued in a cream for dry hands because they form a light protective layer, making skin feel less exposed to wind, soap, and hard water. A lotion typically has higher water content and lighter emollients, so it absorbs faster but the barrier effect wears off sooner — often within an hour or two, especially after hand washing. This cream's richer texture stays on the surface longer, which is why it is described as more suitable than a very light lotion for rough knuckles, cuticles, and areas that tend to become flaky. The trade-off is a slightly slower initial absorption and a faint residual film, but that film is exactly what reduces water evaporation between washes. Choose the cream when your hands feel tight, coarse, or stripped after frequent water contact; choose a lotion for quick touch-ups when skin is only mildly dry and you need immediate dry-down.