Quick Answer

Choose the No. 23 Hand Wash for a daily cleansing ritual that softens skin while you wash, and pair it with the No. 23 Hand Lotion for deep hydration and lasting scent. If you prefer a minimal routine, the hand wash alone provides gentle care, but for dry or exposed hands, the lotion is essential.

No. 23 Hand Lotion

No. 23 Hand Lotion

When it comes to hand care, the right products can make a difference between dry, tight skin and soft, nourished hands. Fischersund, the Icelandic brand known for its evocative scents, offers two complementary products: the No. 23 Hand Wash and the No. 23 Hand Lotion. Both share the same warm, nostalgic fragrance—notes of anise, black pepper, tobacco seeds, and sitka spruce—but serve different purposes in your skincare routine.

In this comparison, we'll break down what each product does, how they work together, and which one you might need more, depending on your lifestyle and skin type.

The Role of a Hand Wash vs. a Hand Lotion

A hand wash is designed to cleanse, removing dirt, oils, and bacteria from your skin. Fischersund's No. 23 Hand Wash goes a step further with a water-based formula that includes calming Aloe and hydrating Meadowfoam Seed Oil. This means it doesn't strip your skin of moisture—instead, it helps maintain softness even during the washing process.

A hand lotion, on the other hand, is meant to moisturize and protect. The No. 23 Hand Lotion combines hydrating Meadowfoam Seed Oil with vitamin E-rich Sunflower Seed Oil to restore and shield your hands. It also imparts a subtle, lingering scent, turning a simple moisturizing step into a sensorial experience.

  • Use hand wash when you need to clean your hands, especially after outdoor activities or before meals.
  • Apply hand lotion after washing or whenever your hands feel dry, to lock in moisture and keep skin supple.

Key Differences at a Glance

The most obvious difference is their function: one cleanses, the other moisturizes. But there are also differences in texture, usage frequency, and scent intensity. The hand wash lathers and rinses off, leaving a light scent, while the lotion absorbs into the skin, providing longer-lasting fragrance and hydration.

If you wash your hands frequently—like healthcare workers, parents, or gardeners—you might find that a hand wash alone isn't enough to prevent dryness. That's where the lotion becomes a necessary partner. Conversely, if you're looking for a simple, no-fuss addition to your bathroom sink, the hand wash can stand alone.

  • For a complete hand care routine, use both: wash to cleanse, then lotion to moisturize.
  • If you have oily skin or live in a humid climate, you might prefer just the hand wash.
  • In dry or cold environments, the lotion is crucial to prevent chapping.

How to Incorporate Them into Your Routine

A practical approach is to keep the No. 23 Hand Wash at your kitchen or bathroom sink for daily cleansing. After washing, pat your hands dry and apply a small amount of the No. 23 Hand Lotion, massaging it into your cuticles and knuckles. This not only hydrates but also creates a protective barrier against environmental stressors.

For those who are always on the go, consider carrying the lotion in your bag for quick touch-ups. The hand wash is more of a home essential, but you can also use it as a gentle body wash if you're traveling and want to pack light.

  • Keep the hand wash in high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
  • Store the lotion near your desk or in your handbag for easy access.

Trade-offs: Hand Wash vs. Hand Lotion

  • Cleansing vs. Moisturizing: The hand wash cleanses while gently moisturizing; the lotion focuses solely on hydration and protection. If you need both, use them together for best results.
  • Scent Intensity: The hand wash leaves a light, fleeting scent; the lotion provides a longer-lasting fragrance that lingers on the skin. Choose the lotion if you want your hands to smell great throughout the day.
  • Convenience: The hand wash is best used at sinks; the lotion is portable and can be applied anywhere. For on-the-go hydration, the lotion is more practical.

Product Facts: What's Inside?

  • No. 23 Hand Wash: Water-based formula packed with calming Aloe and hydrating Meadowfoam Seed Oil. Vegan, cruelty-free, and made in Iceland. This ensures your hands are cleansed without being stripped of natural oils, making it suitable for frequent washing.
  • No. 23 Hand Lotion: Nourishing formula with hydrating Meadowfoam Seed Oil and vitamin E rich Sunflower Seed Oil. Made in Iceland. The combination of oils provides deep hydration and helps restore dry or damaged skin, leaving hands soft and subtly scented.

Which One Fits You?

Best For

  • People with normal to dry skin who want a complete hand care ritual.
  • Those who value a lingering, warm scent on their hands throughout the day.

Not For

  • If you're looking for a purely cleansing product without additional moisture, the hand lotion may be unnecessary.
  • If you have very oily skin or prefer no residue, the hand wash alone might be sufficient.

Both the No. 23 Hand Wash and No. 23 Hand Lotion are thoughtfully crafted to care for your hands while enveloping them in the distinctive Fischersund scent. Whether you choose one or both, you're adding a touch of Icelandic luxury to your daily routine. Explore the No. 23 Hand Lotion to experience its nourishing benefits for yourself.