Aesop hand cream review: is it really worth the money?

4–5 minutes
aesop resurrection aromatique hand balm tube

This Aesop hand cream review will tell you everything you need to know about their bestselling balm. Thinking of treating your clients to a luxury pampering experience? Or looking for the perfect nail tech gift? Don’t splurge before reading this article…

From scent and texture to value for money, this is the full lowdown on whether it’s worth that eye-watering price tag.

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About Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm

Aesop is the kind of brand that makes your bathroom look expensive. Known for its apothecary-style packaging and botanical-rich formulas, it’s become a status symbol in the skincare world. The Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm is one of their bestsellers — and easily one of the most recognisable products in their range.

It promises to deliver long-lasting hydration with a non-greasy finish, all while smelling like an upscale day spa. But is it actually worth the splurge? Let’s break it all down.

What does Aesop Resurrection smell like?

The scent is one of the biggest reasons people buy this product. So what does Aesop Resurrection smell like?

Think fresh citrus, wood, and herbs. The standout notes include:

  • Mandarin rind
  • Rosemary leaf
  • Cedar atlas

The overall vibe is clean, sophisticated, and unisex. It’s not floral, sweet, or synthetic — it’s more of an aromatherapy moment. The scent lingers gently but doesn’t overpower, and it layers well with perfume too.

aesop resurrection aromatique hand balm on a white sheet background

Aesop Hand Cream Ingredients

Here are the ingredients for Resurrection Aromatique specifically, as described on the Aesop website.

Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Bark Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Citrate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Beta-Carotene, d-Limonene, Linalool. Contains nut derivatives.

There are no artificial colours or synthetic fillers, and the balm is vegan and cruelty-free. Just a blend of rich botanicals and hydration boosters.

Texture and viscosity – 10/10

The consistency of this balm is thick, but smooth — more like a rich lotion than a heavy cream. It spreads easily and sinks in fast. No greasy film, no sticky hands, and no waiting around before you can touch your phone again.

It’s ideal for dry hands, but also works on rough patches like elbows and ankles. The added moisture can strengthen your nails and keep your cuticles in top shape too.

before and after of aesop hand cream on dark skinned hand

Affordability – 4/10

Let’s be real: this is not a budget buy. A 75ml tube is around £27, and the larger pump bottle is closer to £80. But you’re paying for luxury, ingredients, and a brand that just *feels* expensive.

If you’re someone who loves a pampering ritual or wants a hand cream that doubles as a mini aromatherapy session, it’s a justified splurge. If not, there are cheaper hand cream options that still do a decent job.

Longevity – 8/10

One application keeps your hands soft for hours, even after washing. You don’t need to constantly reapply, which is exactly what you want from a premium product.

If you’re using it daily, a 75ml tube lasts for a couple of months— even longer if you’re using it more sparingly.

Packaging – 6/10

The aluminium tube is a design dream. Minimalist, matte, and looks amazing on your desk or bathroom shelf. But the low rating is because it’s surprisingly not the most practical.

I find that sometimes more than planned comes out, or when the weather’s warm it gets supper runny. This means that the cap is hard to twist on and it leaks from time to time. Not good if you’ve already spent close to £30 and want to savour every drop!

On the other hand, there’s a more user-friendly pump version if you’re planning to use it at home. But that will set you back.

Scent – 10/10

If you’ve every been into an Aesop store you’ll know exactly what to expect when it comes to their ‘typical’ scent. The Resurrection range smells earthy yet fresh, making it the ideal gender-neutral fragrance for a hand cream.

It provides a much-needed burst of energy when I use it throughout the day. I love it!

My Aesop hand cream review: final thoughts

8/10

10000% worth the hype!

So, is Aesop hand cream worth it? If you’re after results and luxury in equal measure, Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm ticks both boxes. It smells amazing, hydrates without greasiness, and makes a chic addition to any skincare routine. Is it necessary? No. Is it satisfying? Absolutely.

Whether it’s a treat for yourself, your clients or a gift for someone else, it delivers the pampering experience the brand is known for.

Have you tried Aesop’s hand cream? Let me know what you think in the comments below!

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