I really do love this time of year; the trees are turning golden, there’s a sudden chill in the air and – dare I say it – the countdown to Christmas has begun. However, the sudden drop in temperature comes at a price – dry skin.

When it comes to my face and body I like to think I have my moisturising routine perfected now, but I must admit that when it comes to my hands I can be less than prepared. Don’t get me wrong, I do own hand creams but I often forget to use them until it’s too late.

Our hands go through a lot each day and I know I should be looking after mine more than I currently do, so when I had the chance to try out the Lavender & Vanilla Repair Hand Cream from organic German spa brand Primavera I made a promise to myself that I would keep it up.

The first thing I have to say about this cream is that it smells SO nice. Enriched with lavender essential oil, the lavender scent is subtle yet incredibly soothing and relaxing and lingers on the skin nicely after application.

This rich, vegan cream formulation is packed full of nourishing natural ingredients including avocado oil, which promotes cell regeneration and also soothes itching, kukui oil, which is full of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, and vanilla, which has balancing, inflammation-reducing and pain alleviating properties – as well as adding sweetness to the scent.

You only need a small amount of the cream, and it absorbs into the skin really quickly without leaving a sticky residue. Instantly after use my hands feel smooth, soft and really nourished – and the scent has a really relaxing effect.

I have been using this cream daily for almost two weeks now, and not only is there still loads of product left, but my hands aren’t even the least bit dry or cracked. Usually by this time of year, my hands feel sore and tight, and it’s usually too late for me to repair the damage quickly. I have certainly learnt that prevention is key, and that my hands deserved to be nourished all year round – I will be treasuring this little pot of wonders from now on!

The Primavera Repair Hand Cream (RRP £13) is available from selected independent stores nationwide and online, head to www.primaveralife.co.uk to find out where you can get your hands on one.