Arlington Hand Lotion vs Hand Wash: Which Is Right for You?
By Chemists and Perfumers since 1790 D R Harris London | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare D.R. Harris Arlington hand lotion and hand wash to decide which suits your routine. Learn key differences and get practical guidance.
Quick Answer
Choose Arlington Hand Wash for daily cleansing and Arlington Hand Lotion for moisturizing and soothing. They complement each other, so many people use both in a complete hand care routine.
Why the Arlington Range Works as a Pair
The Arlington range from D.R. Harris London is built around a classic citrus and fern fragrance. Both the hand wash and hand lotion share this scent, so using them together creates a consistent, pleasant experience.
The hand wash is designed for bathrooms and kitchens, where a good liquid soap makes hand washing a simple pleasure. The hand lotion, on the other hand, focuses on soothing and moisturizing without leaving a greasy residue. Together, they cover cleansing and care.
If you already use Arlington cologne or aftershave, adding the hand wash and lotion extends the fragrance to your hand care routine without clashing scents.
Key Differences in Texture and Purpose
The hand wash is a liquid soap meant to be rinsed off. It cleanses and refreshes, making it ideal for frequent hand washing. The hand lotion is a leave-on product that hydrates and soothes after washing or whenever your hands feel dry.
Because the lotion is rich yet non-greasy, it works well for daytime use when you don't want slippery hands. The hand wash, being a soap, is not designed to moisturize on its own—it cleanses.
If you have dry skin, you'll likely benefit most from pairing the two: wash with the hand wash, then follow with the lotion to lock in moisture.
A Note on Fragrance and Consistency
Both products carry the same classic Arlington fragrance, so you won't notice a scent mismatch if you use them together. However, the fragrance may linger differently: the hand wash rinses off, leaving a subtle trace, while the lotion stays on the skin, providing a more lasting scent.
The lotion's non-greasy formula makes it suitable for frequent application, even at a desk or on the go. The hand wash is a practical addition to any sink, but it is not a substitute for moisturizing.
Consider your hand care routine: if you wash your hands often, the lotion becomes essential to prevent dryness; if you rarely need extra moisture, the hand wash alone might suffice.
How to Choose Between Them
- Choose Hand Wash if: You want a refreshing, fragrant cleanser for your bathroom or kitchen sink. It's perfect for regular hand washing and leaves a subtle scent.
- Choose Hand Lotion if: You need to soothe and moisturize dry hands without greasiness. Use it after washing or whenever your hands feel tight or dry. If you wash your hands often, pair the lotion with the hand wash for best results.
- Choose Both if: You want a complete hand care routine with a consistent fragrance. Use the hand wash to cleanse and the lotion to moisturize, creating a balanced experience. This combination is especially beneficial for dry skin or frequent hand washers.
Product Facts
- Arlington Hand Lotion 300ml - D R Harris London: Arlington Hand Lotion 300ml blends citrus and fern in a rich, soothing formula that moisturizes without greasy residue. This makes it ideal for frequent use throughout the day, especially after hand washing, to keep skin soft and comfortable.

Arlington Hand Lotion 300ml - D R Harris London - Arlington Hand Wash 300ml - D R Harris London: Arlington Hand Wash 300ml is a fresh, vibrant liquid soap with the classic citrus and fern fragrance, suited for bathrooms and kitchens. It elevates everyday hand washing with a pleasant scent and effective cleansing, but it does not moisturize on its own.

Arlington Hand Wash 300ml - D R Harris London
Who Should Choose What
Best for
- Arlington Hand Wash: daily hand washing in bathrooms or kitchens, especially for those who enjoy a classic citrus-fern scent.
- Arlington Hand Lotion: people with dry or sensitive hands who need non-greasy moisture, and those who want a subtle fragrance that lingers.
Not for
- If you prefer unscented hand care products, the Arlington range may not suit you due to its distinct fragrance.
- If you only need a moisturizer and don't wash your hands frequently, the hand wash alone won't address dryness—consider the lotion instead.

