Hi In Your Hands--I tried it--the Ice part madethings WORSE....
Have had much better luck using different textured things, like velvet, a soft wash-cloth, those fluffy nylon scrubber things that comes with bath-gel, and believe it or not, on a good day, I can sort of tolerate a well-worn loofah-sponge and a very gentle skin exfoliator lotion (nothing too harsh or "grainy" to start with). The OT and my Doc said to just start off real gentle with what can be tolerated, and slowly work up to more vigerous pressure/scrubbing. They said it is good to use small, circular motions, and work your way towards the heart (helps with swelling).

Maybe one day you hubby will be able to tolerate water better; I do all these things plus my hand/arm exercises in the tub, FAITHFULLY, every a.m., and sometimes, 3 times daily. It has really helped my arms not to be quite so sensitive, and helps maintain what strenght/ROM I've got.

Hope your hubby finds something that helps!