Disclosure: I'm a bit of hand lotion freak—I apply it obsessively during the day in between work projects and after washing my hands. But since shunning the drugstore brands that smell nice and feel good but are mostly chock-full of chemicals like parabens and pthalates and potentially skin-irritating fragrances (according to the Environmental Working Group, fragrances are among the top five allergens in the world), it's been challenging to find a favorite natural substitute. I've purchased many natural brands, but found they can be either tacky or greasy or not rich enough and dry up too fast, leaving your hands feeling chalky and dry again. Or they are overly scented. Or they have no scent at all.
UNTIL NOW. Folks, can I get a "hallelujah"? I've found the best natural hand lotion!
The one
McEvoy Ranch, an organic olive oil farm and vineyard in California, recently sent me their 80 Acres Lavender Hand & Body Lotion to try, and I instantly knew this was the perfect product. It's a part of McEvoy's 80 Acres Beauty line, and it comes in other scents, too, including Blood Orange and Bohemian Rose. I'm partial to lavender for its calming properties, though—I don't know about you, but I can use all the calming in daily life that I can get!
All the feels
This natural hand lotion is rich, feels smooth going on, and stays put for hours, thanks to its antioxidant-rich extra virgin olive oil, as well as jojoba, sunflower and grapeseed oils. Extra virgin olive oil contains high levels of squalene, an extremely hydrating lipid similar to our skin's own natural sebum that is readily absorbed. It even passed the test of keeping my hands moisturized after one hand wash. For those who like to carry a hand moisturizer in their purse or travel carryon, it comes in a travel-friendly 2.5-oz. size in addition to the larger 10 oz. that's great for home.
The scent
The lavender hand lotion is scented with essential oils of lavender (inspired by 80 Acres' own lavender fields, above), ylang ylang, lime and lemon, which make it smell extra fresh without overpowering the senses. It also is infused with aloe vera and chamomile. The Lavender, Blood Orange and Bohemian Rose scents are 100-percent synthetic fragrance free—they are fragranced exclusively with pure essential oils and extracts.
What's NOT in it
In addition to synthetic fragrances, 80 Acres products do not contain pthalates, sulfates or parabens. Wherever possible, it sources organic ingredients, but the lotions are not 100-percent organic—each product varies in the percentage of organics used. Its preservatives come from potassium, sodium and sage-based extracts instead of parabens.
More goodness
The best natural hand lotion's packaging is, naturally, BPA free and made of post-consumer recycled packaging that is itself recyclable. Plus, 80 Acres products are cruelty fee and Leaping Bunny certified, meaning they are never tested on animals.
Looking for more natural beauty products? Check out the Badass + Healthy Beauty page. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us and let us know what you want to know!
