The adage “put your best foot forward” is a bit misleading because it is, in fact, our hands that are extended first. Whether it’s a handshake, a wave, or the ever-so-underrated high-five, our hands are seen far more than our feet ever will be. The highlight of my skincare routine is hydration, especially the hands. My favourite part about lotions is the scents, of course. I love food-based scents far more than those derived from flowers. Perhaps it is my inner foodie that desires to smell like food. Who knows? The sense of smell and the brain are intricately linked. A whiff can transport you to a memory you perhaps had once forgotten, evoke an emotion, or be a calming reminder of someone you love. Here is a sampling of some of my favourite hand lotion scents:

#1 Apricot: Apricot is a favourite because it immediately reminds me of my mother. She is a true lady in every sense of the word. Like her, when the apricot scent enters the room, you are every bit aware of its presence, but it is never overpowering. It is also a delicate scent that is affable to even those who prefer lotions of the unscented variety.

#2 Cucumber: Cucumber is such a fun smell. It boasts a crispness that’s both sweet and refreshing. I find this scent most appropriate for the daytime. Cucumber is certainly the wildcard of the group. It pairs well with just about any other scent. It can amplify the aroma of a more muted scent or tone down a very dominant fragrance. Currently my favorite Cucumber-scented lotion on the market is made by Evolution of Smooth. If you want to check it out you can find it here.

#3 Vanilla: Whether we’re talking cake, ice cream, or lotion, you can never go wrong with a classic vanilla. Depending on the vanilla, it can be very light or quite powerful, especially when blended with another scent. For me, the best vanilla is somewhere in between. It’s certainly noticeable but not headache wrenching. I love vanilla in the winter. It compliments the cold weather and is a fragrance equivalent to an elegant winter white.

#4 Lemon: Ahhh! Nothing makes me feel quite the way the scent of lemon does. There’s a reason it is always a scent option in household cleaners. This smell on your hands just screams, “clean!” It rouses fond memories of Saturday-morning chores and summer lemonade. The citrus tingle makes your hands feel so revitalized and full of energy.

*This is a collaborative post.