10 Things to Consider When Buying Lotion Bottle

Ever wondered why some people have better skin? Could it be the body lotion they use? This guide will dive into the many benefits of body lotion and how to pick the best one for your skin. Body lotion is more than just a cosmetic. It's key for keeping skin hydrated, fighting dryness, and boosting overall skin health.

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With so many products out there, knowing what makes a good lotion is important. It helps us make smart choices for our daily skincare routines.

Did you know our House of T•L Hand & Body Cream won the Clean Beauty Awards?

Key Takeaways

• Body lotion is vital for maintaining skin health and hydration.
• Choosing the right product enhances personalized skincare efforts.
• Regular use of body lotion provides numerous skin benefits.
• Understanding ingredients is crucial for effective skincare.
• Different lotion forms cater to varying skin needs.

Understanding the Importance of Body Lotion

We know how important body lotion is in our skincare routines. It does more than just hydrate; it's key for skin health. Using lotion daily helps keep moisture in and skin from getting dry.

This step is crucial for the skin's natural barrier. It fights dryness, flakiness, and irritation. Let's explore why this product is so essential for our skin.

Why Moisturizing is Essential for Skin Health

Moisturizing keeps our skin strong and healthy. Without enough moisture, our skin can get rough and crack. Using body lotion regularly helps keep skin hydrated.

The right lotion can make our skin look better. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin keep moisture in. They make our skin look and feel great.

The Role of Body Lotion in Daily Skincare Routines

Adding body lotion, and hand/body creams to our daily skincare makes us feel good. It turns a simple task into a self-care moment. Our skin gets nourished and looks soft and smooth.

Using lotion regularly makes skincare easier and leads to healthy skin. This shows we care about keeping our skin moisturized.

Benefit

Description

Hydration

Prevents moisture loss and keeps skin plump.

Protection

Forms a barrier against environmental stressors.

Comfort

Relieves dryness and soothes irritation.

Appearance

Improves skin texture and radiance.

Benefits of Using Body Lotion Regularly

Using body lotion daily does more than just keep skin moist. It helps keep our skin healthy by providing hydration, protection, and soothing irritation.

Hydration and Nourishment for All Skin Types

Body lotion is great for all skin types, like oily, dry, or combination. It keeps skin hydrated, making it soft and healthy. This keeps our skin's natural barrier strong against daily challenges.

Protection Against Environmental Damage

Our skin faces many dangers from pollution, harsh weather, and UV rays. Body lotion acts as a shield. It reduces damage and keeps our skin looking good.

Soothing Irritated or Sensitive Skin

Face and body creams are a big help for irritated or sensitive skin. It uses calming ingredients to soothe and balance. This makes a big difference for people with sensitive skin.

Body Lotion Ingredients: What to Look For

Choosing the right body lotion means knowing what's in it. We'll focus on natural ingredients that are good for your skin and the pros and cons of synthetic ones. This helps us pick lotions that meet our skincare goals.

Common Natural Ingredients That Benefit the Skin

Natural ingredients in body lotions are great for your skin.

Our face and body creams only include natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals.

These natural ingredients do more than just moisturize. They help keep your skin healthy, giving you a glowing look.

Understanding Synthetic Ingredients and Their Effects

Some people like natural ingredients, but synthetic ones have their uses too. They add special functions to lotions. For example:

• Emulsifiers: They mix oil and water, making the lotion smooth and easy to apply.
• Preservatives: These stop bacteria and mold, keeping the lotion fresh longer.
• Fragrances: They make the lotion smell nice but can irritate sensitive skin.

It's important to know about synthetic ingredients. They can be helpful but might not be good for everyone. Knowing the risks helps us choose wisely for our skin.

Ingredient Type

Examples

Benefits

Potential Drawbacks

Natural

Apricot Kernel Oil, Glycerine, Olive Oil

Moisturizes, soothes, antibacterial

Possible allergies

Synthetic

Emulsifiers, Preservatives, Fragrances

Stability, extended shelf life, appealing scents

Skin irritation, hormonal effects

By looking at these ingredients, we can pick lotions and creams that are right for us. This leads to healthier, more hydrated skin.

How to Choose the Right Body Lotion for Your Skin Type

Choosing the right body lotion is key, and knowing your skin type is the first step. Different skin types like dry, oily, and combination need specific solutions. Let's see how to find the right product for our skin.

Identifying Your Skin Type and Needs

First, we need to figure out our skin type. Here are some signs of each type:

• Dry Skin: Feels tight, looks flaky, and needs more moisture.
• Oily Skin: Looks shiny, gets breakouts, and might do well with light lotions.
• Combination Skin: Has both dry and oily spots, so we need a balanced lotion.

Knowing what we need, like anti-aging or extra moisture, helps pick the right lotion.

Tips for Selecting Products Based on Skin Concerns

After figuring out our skin type, we can look for the right ingredients. For example:

• For Dry Skin: Look for lotions with ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin.
• For Oily Skin: Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic lotions that hydrate without blocking pores.
• For Combination Skin: A light lotion with a balanced mix works well for all areas.

It's important to avoid harsh chemicals and irritants when picking products. Taking time to think about our needs helps us find the best products; which is why we formulated House of T•L products with only natural ingredients.

You can take a look at our best sellers to learn more about our natural body oils, cleansers, and creams.

The Different Forms of Body Lotion

It's important to know the different types of body lotion to pick the right one for our skin. There are many kinds, each made for a specific purpose. By understanding lotions, creams, and butters, we can see how they vary in texture and effectiveness.

Lotions, Creams, and Butters: What’s the Difference?

Body lotions, creams, and butters have their own unique traits. They differ in how thick they are, what's in them, and how we use them.

Type

Texture

Moisturizing Strength

Best Use

Lotions

Lightweight, fast-absorbing

Ideal for daily hydration

Warm weather, oily skin

Creams

Thicker, richer

Deep moisturizing

Dry skin, cooler climates

Butters

Very thick, luxurious

Intense moisture

Severely dry or rough patches

When to Use Each Type for Optimal Results

Deciding between lotions, creams, and butters depends on our skin type and the situation. Lotions are great for everyday use because they're light and hydrate quickly. Creams are perfect for dry skin or in cold weather, giving extra moisture. Butters are ideal for dry spots needing extra care, providing deep nourishment.

House of T•L Hand & Body Cream is great for all skin types and in all climates.

Application Tips for Maximum Efficacy

To get the most out of your body lotion, we must apply it correctly. The right way to apply can greatly improve how well it works and how deep it goes into the skin.

When and How to Apply Body Lotion

Apply body lotion when your skin is a bit damp, like after a shower. This helps the skin soak up moisture better. Dry your skin gently, not roughly, to keep enough moisture for hydration.

Techniques to Enhance Absorption

Here are some tips to make your body lotion work better:

• Use gentle circular motions: This helps the lotion warm up and absorb faster.
• Apply in sections: Work on small areas at a time for even coverage.
• Pay attention to dry areas: Use more lotion on areas like elbows and knees.

By using these tips, we can make our skincare routines more effective.

Technique

Description

Benefits

Apply on Damp Skin

Use lotion after showering.

Increases hydration retention.

Circular Motions

Rub lotion in circular patterns.

Enhances absorption.

Sectioning Application

Apply in small sections.

Ensures even coverage.

Focus on Dry Areas

Apply extra product on elbows and knees.

Addresses especially dry skin.

Face & Body Cream: How House of T•L Stands Out

Our journey at House of T•L starts with a focus on clean ingredients and effective skincare. We think everyone should have a product that makes their daily skincare better. Our cream is made with natural, high-quality ingredients that nourish the skin well.

Our Commitment to Clean, Effective Ingredients

At House of T•L, we choose clean ingredients that are good for the skin and overall health. Every ingredient in our lotion is picked for its benefits, making it safe for all skin types. We believe in being open about what's in our products, so our customers can make smart skincare choices.

The Joy of Daily Skincare with House of T•L

Adding the House of T•L Hand & Body Cream to your routine brings daily joy to skincare. It feels luxurious on the skin, hydrates deeply, and has a nice scent. We aim to make skincare a pleasant part of your day, encouraging you to take care of yourself more often.

Conclusion

As we finish this body lotion & cream overview, it's clear how important these products are for our skin. We've seen how they help keep our skin healthy by keeping it moisturized and nourished. Using body lotion daily helps fight dryness, shields against harm from the environment, and calms sensitive skin.

Choosing the right body lotion for our skin type is key to getting the best results. We suggest looking at your own needs and finding products that fit those needs. With the right products, we can improve our skincare routine and get healthier, glowing skin.

In our final thoughts on body lotion, we suggest House of T•L for your needs. We focus on clean, effective ingredients. This means you get to take care of your skin and enjoy the daily benefits of a good skincare routine. Let's start this journey to brighter, healthier skin together.

FAQ

What are the main benefits of using body lotion?

Body lotion hydrates deeply and nourishes different skin types. It protects against pollution and soothes sensitive skin. Regular use keeps skin healthy and acts as a barrier against dryness.

How do I choose the right body lotion for my skin type?

First, figure out your skin type, oily, or a mix. Think about what you need, like anti-aging or extra moisture. Pick a lotion that meets those needs and avoids irritating ingredients. House of T•L Hand & Body Cream is great for all skin types.

When is the best time to apply body lotion?

Apply body lotion after showering, when your skin is still damp. This locks in moisture, making the lotion work better. Using it daily can make your skin smoother and healthier.

What ingredients should I look for in a body lotion?

Look for lotions with natural ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and coconut oil. These keep skin hydrated. Know about synthetic ingredients too, so you can pick products that fit your skincare goals.

Are there different types of body lotion, and how do I know which to use?

Yes, there are many body lotions, including lotions, creams, and butters. Lotions are light, while creams and butters are richer. Think about your skin's needs and what you like when choosing.

How can I enhance the absorption of body lotion?

Improve absorption by applying lotion with circular motions on slightly damp skin. This helps the lotion go deeper into your skin, giving you the best results.

What makes House of T•L Hand & Body Cream stand out?

House of T•L focuses on clean, effective ingredients for the skin. We aim to make skincare a joy, ensuring our products nourish and enhance your skincare routine.

By Leta Shy

Leta Shy is an editor overseeing Wirecutter's lifestyle categories.

Many people think of applying lotion as the duty-bound, slightly unpleasant step in their bedtime or morning routine—if they incorporate it at all. The overabundance of mediocre moisturizers could be the culprit: Perhaps it’s a cheap, watery formula that imparts only a suggestion of hydration, or a heavily perfumed, overpriced cream that has underwhelmed you before.

But as dermatologists advise, everyone should use a body moisturizer every day to maintain optimal skin health. That’s why, after interviewing four dermatologists, we tested 25 lotions from an initial list of almost 100. And we’ve found eight that suit a variety of skin types and preferences.

None of our picks will induce any post-shower shudders. These are the lotions and creams that make a healthy habit feel more like a self-care ritual. They include a rich, versatile cream, a light and delightfully scented option, a thick and healing formula, a simple well-packaged lotion, a fancy refillable cream, an elegant, excellent splurge, an overperforming basic with elevated scents, and a cooling, innovative gel.

Thick and versatile staple: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Best for...

This rich cream pulls double duty as a pick in both our body moisturizer and facial moisturizer guides. Although it’s fragrance-free, it still imparts a faint, slightly medicinal scent.

The company is the world’s best Lotion Bottle supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

Dermatologist-favorite CeraVe was founded in to help people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis and is known for its fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers. Our panelists appreciated the simple, versatile formula and non-greasy afterfeel of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and it’s especially appealing since the no-nonsense cream is suitable for use on the face, too.

Its formula feels more luxurious than its price suggests. We found the cream to be much fancier-feeling than its midrange price of roughly $1 an ounce for a substantial tub. One tester described the texture as “elegantly whipped,” while another noted that it “feels hardworking and lush”; yet another called it “super smooth and silky.” Testers also liked the cream’s thick, slightly bouncy texture—one described it as a “very sleek” formula that behaved more like a sheer lotion than a thick cream upon application.

It absorbs quickly without feeling sticky. Aside from glycerin—a humectant that draws water into the skin barrier—occlusive ingredients petrolatum and dimethicone help keep water from evaporating from the skin over time. Our testers appreciated that the cream absorbed well and didn’t leave a greasy layer on their skin. “The texture is nice and sinks in quickly, but not so fast that you can’t get a good spread,” wrote one. Another panelist noted that the cream took longer to sink in than she expected, but its non-sticky texture made the absorption rate less of an issue for her than with other moisturizers she tested.

You can use it on both your body and face. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is also a pick in our facial moisturizer guide, and testers for both guides appreciated it as a one-jar option for après-shower hydration. We tested the cream packaged in a jar with a twist-off lid, which more than one panelist thought was a little unsanitary, but testers appreciated the universality and convenience of the formula overall.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Several panelists noted the unsanitary aspect of having to scoop out the cream with their hands. The cream is sold in a pump container, too, but that version might be a little harder to find.
• One tester noted that having a large-logo-emblazoned tub sitting on her bathroom counter wasn’t the most visually appealing scene. However, she appreciated that the label peeled off easily, leaving a less affronting plain white tub.

Light hydrating lotion that smells amazing: Hempz Triple Moisture Herbal Whipped Body Crème

Best for...

If you enjoy this lotion’s nostalgic sweet scent, you’ll appreciate its supremely spreadable formula and lasting fragrance. However, its added fragrance and dye could cause irritation for some people.

With its cannabis-leaf logo and roster of candy-colored, highly fragranced lotions, Hempz might not be for everyone. But after a call for moisturizer favorites in the office unearthed several fervent fans of Hempz Triple Moisture Herbal Whipped Body Crème (known as the blue formula) specifically, we knew we needed to test it. The brand’s name comes from the hempseed oil included in its lotions; Triple Moisture also contains other natural oils, such as yangu, sweet almond, sunflower seed, and jojoba seed.

It spreads like a lotion but hydrates like a cream. Although the lotion’s fragrance was polarizing (more on that below), most testers were wowed by its creamy, easily spreadable texture. The hempseed oil is accompanied by dimethicone (a non-greasy silicone), glycerin (a humectant), and a skin-softening coconut-oil derivative. “Love this one—spreads super easily but covers, unlike other thinner lotions,” one tester noted. Another panelist noted that it absorbed quickly and left her skin feeling very soft. If you’re looking for a hydrating moisturizer that’s thinner than a cream, this is a good option.

The scent is strong and long-lasting. Hempz lotions are known for their scents—think walking into a Bath & Body Works, and you’ll understand the vibes. If you’re fond of the fragrance, you’ll be happy to know that our testers found it seriously durable; one even described it as “100 percent too long-lasting.” (The scent of the Triple Moisture’s formula sent the same tester down a rabbit hole after it triggered a “Proustian response” before they decided that its “fresh citrus” scent dredged up memories of Strawberry Shortcake’s nemesis, The Purple Pieman.)

Its pump works smoothly. Throughout the evaluation period, testers developed strong views on pump-to-viscosity performance, as sometimes a formula would be too thick for its pump’s tiny hole to manage well. When you’re attempting to maintain a daily habit, even something that seemingly minor can keep you from moisturizing as often as you should. Hempz’s lighter formula and well-functioning pump were a perfect match. Testers appreciated that the formula flowed easily through the pump’s mechanisms without clogging or requiring manual labor. “Other ones feel like you’re working ye olde pump trolley on a railroad,” one tester explained.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• This formula contains two ingredients, fragrance and dyes, that dermatologists recommend avoiding if you have sensitive skin or are wary of possible irritants. One of our testers found the Hempz lotion’s blue color—a combination of Blue No. 1 and D&C Violet No. 2 dyes—to be off-putting.
• All of our panelists noted that while the pump mechanism worked smoothly and practically, the overall packaging left much to be desired. One tester said that both the design and packaging made Hempz seem cheaper than other drugstore options, such as Native or Neutrogena.

An extra-moisturizing option for serious skin soothing: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream

Best for...

This affordable, occlusive-rich cream is extremely effective for locking hydration in place. Its heavy formula is best for soothing rough or flaky skin.

For cracked, irritated, or sensitive skin, you can’t do better than Vanicream Moisturizing Cream, in which the second ingredient is the heavy-duty occlusive, petrolatum. Testers loved the luxurious feel and extra-moisturizing benefits of this cream, and although the packaging isn’t fancy, the price is right.

For a thick barrier cream, it soaks in readily. Vanicream Moisturizing Cream is much thicker than a lotion. Testers found that the formula took a while to sink in, but they didn’t mind that because of its extra-hydrating benefits. As one tester noted, “The formula’s point is to seal in moisture, and it does that very well.” Another tester appreciated that the formula soaked in well and plumped up skin without feeling overly sticky after absorption.

It’s ideal for sensitive skin. Because Vanicream formulates its products without common irritants, this cream is a no-brainer if you or anyone in your household is concerned about skin sensitivities or has a condition such as eczema or psoriasis. In fact, the ingredient panel, at just 11 ingredients, was one of the shortest among the lotions we tested. The formula was also awarded a Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association.

It smoothes rough skin nicely. The formula is safe for all parts of your body, so you can use it on your face, too (and the pump top makes things a little more sanitary than other tub options, like the version of the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream we tested). It’s also a nice option to target dried extremities—one panelist found herself reaching for it as an evening hand cream since it had the staying power to hang on while she slept. Another noticed that it almost immediately softened the appearance of craggy, callous skin along her ankles.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Although this Vanicream formula is fragrance-free, it still imparts an almost imperceptible medicinal scent that not everyone appreciated.
• One long-term tester noted that the pump top, which extends from the middle of the tub’s screw cap, tends to stop working about halfway through use. Although that is annoying, you can still unscrew the cap to scoop out the remaining cream.

Cute, vibey, and effective: Byoma Sensitive Skin Body Lotion

Best for...

This fragrance-free lotion’s creamy formula has skin-calming ingredients such as calendula and oat kernel extract, and its bright packaging encourages daily use.

Many of the unscented lotions we tested come in nondescript, utilitarian packaging. Sensitive Skin Body Lotion from TikTok-famous brand Byoma is different—although it’s more cutesy than sophisticated, the bright pink bottle was a favorite among testers, who also loved the lotion’s silky-smooth formulation. Its main ingredients include the emollients ethylhexyl palmitate and shea butter plus the humectant glycerin, as well as natural occlusive oils.

It has a squiggly, lightweight formula. One tester raved about how easily this lotion rubbed into her skin. “I was shocked at how soft my body felt the next morning,” she added. Another noted how the lotion’s pump dispensed satisfying “ASMR-ish” noodles of product. “Unlike some of the others, this one seemed to truly soak right in and moisturize without leaving a sticky need-to-dry hang time or a kind of shrink-wrap layer.”

The bottle is a vibe. One tester likened the lotion’s formula to tried-and-true drugstore mainstays like Eucerin or Aveeno and other reliable moisturizers, saying, “It’s just that the packaging makes it that much more appealing.” Another tester was at first skeptical about the seemingly wasted packaging of the large, square pump top, but its utility eventually grew on her. “I was surprised at how well this thick cream came out of the pump without getting stuck,” she said.

It doesn’t irritate sensitive skin. Some lotions for sensitive skin are so devoid of bells and whistles that they feel rather grim. With 28 ingredients and no added scent, Byoma’s formula has plenty of well-tolerated hydrating staples, including glycerin, shea butter, and squalane. But it also has some plant-based soothers, such as calendula and oat kernel extract. One panelist’s daughter has mild eczema and a distaste for cold, slippery lotion; something about the look and feel of the Byoma lotion encouraged her to develop a nightly ritual, and it helped the dry patches recede. This lotion is also accepted by the National Eczema Association.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The pump top is difficult to open. One tester had to resort to using a pot holder and some elbow grease to unscrew it. It’s an added challenge if you like to eke out as much lotion as possible before tossing empties.
• The fragrance-free formula still carries a subtle scent. One tester noted that the lotion had a slight fragrance with a somewhat plasticky backnote that was neither pleasant nor offensive, while another strongly disliked it.

Luxe, rich, splurgy: Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter

Best for...

This supremely spreadable whipped body butter elevates a mundane daily hydration habit. But it will cost you.

$36 from Sephora

May be out of stock

Model and businessperson Josie Maran’s eponymous cosmetics brand has been synonymous with the “clean beauty” movement since its launch in . Central to Josie Maran products is its use of argan oil, and the Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter also contains various other oils and shea butter. Almost all of our testers, even those wary of “luxe” lotions, loved the experience of both the rich, spreadable cream and the fancy refillable glass vessel.

It feels like a treat. At $6 an ounce, this body butter’s price was much higher than the $2.26-per-ounce average of the moisturizers we tested. It is a splurge, but it feels every bit of a luxury. The butter formulation is rich and creamy; as one tester put it, “it feels like it might be actually worth the price.” Other testers appreciated that the firm-looking butter felt much more pliable—and, yes, whipped—in hand, and they noted that the formula was “thick but spreadable.”

It leaves a subtle shimmer. Save this one for summer—testers liked that the body butter left behind a slight sheen once it was absorbed. (To be clear, it doesn’t contain mica or any other light-reflecting particles.) One tester said it made her want to shave her legs to show off her glossy, “knife-like shins.” But some said it took too long to absorb, a full 45 minutes. You might take a pause after lathering up and before slipping into a silky garment.

The refillable glass container is a nice touch. The full-size version of the body butter comes in a hefty, large glass tub; you can purchase double-size refill packs afterward. One tester noted that they liked the glass container so much, they were planning on repurposing it. You can also recycle everything but the inner liner (that is, the glass container and the plastic cap) through normal residential-recycling programs.

You can dial in your scent. Our testers evaluated the body butter in the unscented option Always Nude, which one tester noted as smelling slightly like essential oils (it does not contain added fragrance). The Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter also comes in seven other scents, ranging from musky to sweet to citrusy and heady.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The glass container is rather large, which can make it slippery to hold if your hands are moisturized.
• Like other tub moisturizers we tested, this one made some of our more germ-averse testers wary of sharing, since you need to dip your hands into the tub.

Spa-like aesthetic and an excellent formula: Nécessaire The Body Lotion

Best for...

This lotion soaks in fast, feels smooth going on, and adds a chic and minimalistic aesthetic to your routine.

Nécessaire’s deodorants, lotions, and body cleansers cater to people who value sustainability (it’s a certified B Corp) and simplicity (check out the minimalist packaging design). The ingredient list of Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion includes several humectants, emollients, and seed oils, all of which meld into a highly absorbable and hydrating formulation.

It soaks in quickly. Testers were amazed at how quickly this formula absorbed into their skin. “Truly seemed to soak right in easily. Not an excessive amount of rubbing,” one tester said. “I don’t know how it soaks in so fast but still feels moisturizing,” another wrote.

It’s delightfully spreadable. In addition to its great absorption rate, Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion has a pleasing, easily spreadable texture. “Feels like heaven,” one tester said. Another described it as a “nice, rich” lotion that locked moisture in place quickly. Yet another tester raved about the formula’s smooth feel. “It’s the perfect texture for me.”

It elevates your bathroom. Every one of our testers mentioned the chic, minimalist-design tube as a selling point. “Wouldn’t be surprised to see this tube in an upscale spa,” one said. Another tester said this lotion looked so nice on display that she granted it some coveted countertop space by her sink. As another tester wrote, this one gets “major vibe points.” If the formula weren’t so good on its own, a person might consider decanting a cheaper formula into the pleasing bottle once it ran out.

It’s fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin. Nécessaire adheres to the European Union’s regulations for cosmetic ingredients, which impose stricter ingredient bans than the United States. In addition, the fragrance-free version of The Body Lotion is accepted by the National Eczema Association.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Marketing copy on the back of the tube touts the inclusion of peptides and 2.5% niacinamide and describes it as a firming lotion. Research on the efficacy of peptides in body care is limited; in addition, the packaging doesn’t note the concentration of the peptides.
• Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion comes in a relatively small size for daily use. Although at about $4.40 an ounce (for the 6.8-ounce tube), it’s cheaper than our luxe pick from Josie Maran, it might require frequent refills at $30 a pop. The company also sells a 15.2-ounce pump container that works out to be slightly cheaper per ounce, but it’s less sleekly designed.

Everyday, good value: Native Moisturizing Lotion

Best for...

This light lotion earned solid marks for its ease of use and non-cloying scent options. But it might not be hydrating enough for drier skin.

$14 from Amazon

May be out of stock

For a habit-forming, accessible lotion that’s slightly more elevated than its run-of-the-mill drugstore counterparts, we suggest Native Moisturizing Lotion. It comes in several scents, including limited-edition fragrances, and doesn’t break the bank. The formula is a mix of humectants and emollients as well as shea butter, which can sometimes go on heavy, though not so here. It’s widely available, and it’s affordable enough for generous daily use.

It’s a lightweight formula. One of our panelists found the sensory experience of most body creams and lotions off-putting. But the lightweight Native option, which soaks in almost on impact, was just the ticket. (Testers with drier skin found this lotion to be slightly too light and watery for all-day moisturization.) Another noted that it was a general crowd-pleaser: “I can see this being an all-family option,” she said.

The scent is subtle but long-lasting. Whereas some scented lotions we tried had overpowering scents, Native’s was much more subtle. The lotion imparts a noticeable scent that doesn’t overwhelm. Testers appreciated its fragrance profile, with one even noting that it “helped with compliance” since she liked the scent so much. Another praised its lasting effects after she donned a sweater she had worn during testing a few days earlier and still noticed the scent. “It’s nice, not cloying,” she added. Our testers’ favorite scents included Eucalyptus & Mint, which one panelist’s partner especially appreciated, and Sea Salt & Cedar.

It has a pump, which testers preferred. On the whole, our testers were more comfortable using lotions or creams that they could dispense without possibly introducing germs into the remaining product; however, some of the pump mechanisms we tested broke or were terribly difficult to use. Native’s pump worked without issue for most testers, and they appreciated its quick-swivel lock function.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Testers with drier skin found Native’s lotion to be too watery and said that its moisturizing effects dissipated relatively quickly. If you count yourself in that category, you might want to try one of our creamier picks.
• One of our testers had a problem with the pump on the bottle she tested, as it took a long time to dispense the lotion. No other testers noted this issue.
• This lotion comes in several scents but has no fragrance-free version.

Unique and cooling gel: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream

Best for...

This juicy gel cream has a distinctive texture that spreads easily and leaves skin feeling refreshed. But we recommend only the unscented version, and the lotion does contain dye.

Neutrogena’s tried-and-true Hydro Boost line has been quenching dry skin for over a decade, but you might be more familiar with its face creams and lotions than its Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream. (In fact, we recommend a Hydro Boost gel cream in our facial moisturizers guide.) The body lotion impressed many of our testers with its juicy, refreshing formula; its key ingredient is hyaluronic acid, which acts as a humectant to draw moisture into the outer skin layer.

Even though it’s wet at first, it dries quickly. All of our testers noted this formula’s unique texture—it truly feels like a mix between a gel and a cream. Panelists appreciated that it absorbed easily and dried quickly, although one tester said that it left a subtle film on the skin.

It offers lightweight, refreshing hydration. One tester is a longtime fan of this lotion for its smooth application and absorption and uses it throughout the year except during extremely dry, cold winters. This easy-to-use formula is the one she reaches for above all others, especially when applying heavier lotions feels like a chore. Another tester appreciated its perceived plumping effects, and added, “It felt so satiny going on, like, glided right over my skin.”

It’s good to the last drop. Because of the lotion’s light viscosity, it glides out of the pump nicely and slides out of the bottle easily. Waste-averse testers easily got almost every drop of it out after unscrewing the pump top.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• One of our testers found the formula to be too sticky and said it felt like it sat on their skin a bit.
• Testers (and online reviewers) stress opting for the unscented option rather than the fragranced version, which many people say has an unpleasant smell.
• This lotion contains the dye Blue No. 1, which people with sensitive skin may choose to avoid.

Why you should trust us

Several beauty-coverage editors and health reporters contributed to this guide, which Wirecutter first published in .

Collectively, we have tested thousands of beauty products over many decades. Most of us use body lotion daily. We have skin types that span the range of normal to extra dry, and we are particular about the products that touch our skin.

This guide includes research from our initial reporting as well as guidance from dermatologists; in addition to conducting a new dermatologist interview for this update, we reached out to our initial dermatologist sources to see whether their advice remained the same. (It did.)

All Wirecutter journalists review and test products with complete editorial independence. We are never made aware of any business implications of our editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards.

How lotion works

Your skin is an organ. Its job is to keep the outside out and hold your insides in.

The outermost layer of the outer layer of your skin, the epidermis, is called the stratum corneum. Its structure is similar to that of a brick wall: It has bricks (dead skin cells) and mortar (lipids). Just because the skin cells are dead, that doesn’t mean they are useless—they contain proteins and fats that trap water, which helps keep your skin healthy.

When skin gets dehydrated, two things happen: It becomes more vulnerable to penetration by allergens and microbes, and it becomes less effective at shedding excess cells. “Our skin really is our first defense against the outside world,” said dermatologist Papri Sarkar.

If you want to add moisture to your skin, it’s best to apply moisturizer to wet skin to trap excess water inside. According to dermatologist Cynthia Bailey, ideally your skin is already soaked—wet for more than five minutes—and you apply moisturizer within three minutes after toweling dry.

Though packaging may promise vast differences between one lotion and the next, they all include the same basic types of ingredients—occlusives, emollients, and humectants—to help your skin retain moisture.

Occlusives seal the skin to prevent water from evaporating. Petrolatum, better known as petroleum jelly, is the standard with which all other occlusives are compared. It can reduce water loss by as much as 99%. It doesn’t clog pores, allergies to it are rare, and it has a safety record spanning more than 100 years.

Other occlusives include lanolin, dimethicone, coconut oil, shea and cocoa butters, mineral oil (liquid petrolatum), botanical oils (like those from fruits, seeds, and nuts), and beeswax. Many lotions use an oil-free occlusive called dimethicone, a kind of silicone used to create a silky but non-greasy feeling.

Humectants are ingredients that draw water, primarily from deeper skin layers, to the surface of the skin. If a lotion or cream claims to be “long-lasting,” the manufacturer is probably referring to humectant ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, urea, or lactic acid, according to Bailey.

All moisturizers with humectants must also have an occlusive ingredient so that the water pulled from deep skin layers doesn’t evaporate immediately and dry your skin further.

Many moisturizers also contain skin-softening ingredients called emollients, such as shea and cocoa butters, cetearyl alcohol, mineral oil, lanolin, and stearic, linoleic, linolenic, oleic, and lauric acids.

Manufacturers often add fragrances and dyes to lotions and creams to make them smell and look better. But lotions can be a particularly problematic vehicle for fragrances if you rub them into dry skin, which is more sensitive to irritants, as fragrances can be for some people. “Once you develop a skin allergy to an ingredient, that allergy lasts for your lifetime,” Bailey said. “Don’t taunt it.” The dermatologists we consulted recommend using only fragrance-free lotions to avoid potential allergic reactions.

When evaluating lotions, we didn’t automatically eliminate those with dyes or fragrances, since the look and smell of a lotion can be important to many people. However, for our picks we noted such additions if they appeared in the ingredient lists, and we made sure to include a larger subset of fragrance- and dye-free options in our panel testing.

Lotions can also contain ceramides, essential lipids that make up part of the natural “mortar” between skin cells. Off-the-shelf lotions usually don’t list the concentration of ceramides, so you can’t be sure whether they’ll have a real effect.

Who this is for

Lotion is a cheap and easy way to keep your skin healthy so that it can hold up against infection and inflammation.

Dermatologist Onyeka Obioha recommends that people with all skin types use a daily body moisturizer, even if they don’t consider their skin to be dry. “Even if you’re not manifesting signs of skin dryness, it can still be there,” she said.

Although everyone’s skin experiences water loss, certain factors can affect your skin’s moisture level. Race may be a factor, as well as age—studies show that outer-layer skin hydration tends to peak by age 40.

In addition, other factors can cause dry skin, including cold weather, low humidity, and too much sun exposure. Hormones play a part, too—for example, pregnancy and menopause can contribute to drier skin. Health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease, can also cause dry skin. Even your everyday habits, like how often you shower and how hot you like your water, can contribute.

How we picked and tested

If you’ve ever shopped for lotion before, you know that you have endless options, available at every price. For this guide, we polled colleagues—who all had various degrees of skin dryness and who lived in different climates—to find the lotions they continued to turn to no matter what. This group included people who used lotion daily and those who did not.

We also researched popular best-of lists to note any clear repeat winners, although we found little consensus among those lists. In addition, we interviewed dermatologists, including those we had originally consulted for this guide (to confirm that their advice still held).

Based on our previous and new reporting and research, we focused our latest search on lotions and creams that fit the following parameters:

They contained a mix of occlusives and humectants. The main purposes of a body moisturizer are to add a thin layer of oil to the skin’s surface to replace lost lipids and to prevent water from evaporating from your skin. The main ingredients that do that are occlusives and humectants.

They appeared on retailer best-seller lists or had high or rising search volume. One objective of this guide was for us to evaluate accessible options to help you differentiate alternatives amidst a sometimes overwhelming number of choices. We focused our search on highly rated mainstays in the category, as well as on new lotions and creams that were garnering sustained attention.

They were categorized as a lotion, cream, or body butter. We did not evaluate body oils or ointments for this guide.

In a previous version of this guide, we limited our search to fragrance-free lotions in pump dispensers, since that type is what dermatologists recommend to prevent contamination and irritation. For the latest update to this guide, we decided to drop those parameters, since they might not be a concern for you depending on your personal scent or aesthetic preferences, your household bathroom-sharing situation, or even just your level of aversion to risk—all of which can affect whether you stick with a daily lotion habit. As dermatologist Papri Sarkar advised, “The best lotion is one you like and will consistently use.”

We started our search with a general survey of which moisturizers generated the most discussion—in the office, among our family and friends, and online. That initial search generated a list of more than 90 body moisturizers. From there, we culled the list based on the parameters above to come up with a list of 25 lotions, creams, and body butters to evaluate further.

We then arrived at a list of 14 lotions to send to four panel testers for evaluation over a three-week period.

Our panel testers assessed the body moisturizers across four categories: overall experience and perceived benefits, texture, absorption, and the interaction with the packaging and fragrance.

• Experience and perceived benefits: The winning moisturizers were hydrating but not greasy and immediately left skin feeling soft and smooth. In addition, their hydration benefits lasted long enough for testers to not feel like they had to remoisturize at the end of the day (or in the morning if they applied before bedtime).
• Texture: Testers favored well-emulsified, thick-but-not-too-thick formulas that were easily spreadable.
• Absorption: Some lotions tended to leave a film on skin, which some testers had an issue with more than others. Overall, however, the winners sank in quickly and left behind a tacky rather than slick feel before dissipating into the skin further.
• Packaging and fragrance: At a baseline, the packaging should work; a few moisturizers in pump dispensers failed in that regard. We also asked testers for their notes on the package experience; testers tended to gravitate toward picks in pumps or squeeze bottles for sanitary reasons, as well as those with simple and eye-pleasing designs.

In addition, we noted which moisturizers contained fragrance—even those that were marketed as fragrance-free—in order to help you discern what sort of overall experience to expect.

The competition

Some panelists have had positive previous experiences using AmLactin Daily Nourish 12%, one of the few body moisturizers to appear on multiple best-of lists, to help clear their or their children’s keratosis pilaris. But the slippery formula didn’t wow us for everyday use, and some testers experienced a stinging sensation when using it.

Although Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion was a top pick in the previous version of this guide, the current crop of panelists said the formula was lighter and less effective than other contenders; most found the hydrating benefits much too short-lived.

We found Eucerin Intensive Repair, which counts mineral oil as its first ingredient, to be too greasy and unpleasant to use. (We also disliked the smell, which one tester described as reminiscent of old milk.) The same was true for Nivea Essentially Enriched, which had the consistency, look, and feel of an especially greasy sunscreen.

We’ve used Palmer’s Daily Skin Therapy many times in the past for extra-dry skin needs, but our testers found the consistency too greasy to recommend for everyday use. In addition, the formula tended to sit on, not sink into, flaky skin.

We were extremely frustrated by the pump dispenser for La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream—the thick formula seemed almost impossible to get out of the bottle.

We liked the richness and texture of Kiehl’s Creme de Corps but were slightly put off by its smell, color, and oiliness.

We tested Brazilian Bum Bum Cream based on its rave reviews but found the formula’s hydration to be much too fleeting—and its tub way too small—for any sort of effective daily habit. Similarly, Eos Shea Better 24H Moisture Body Lotion had all the hype (and a great price), but we weren’t wowed by its slightly greasy, less hydrating formula.

As a luxe option, Fenty Beauty’s Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream was just okay texture-wise, and the scent was too subtle to register after a short while. We found that the similarly priced Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter (which comes in both scented and unscented options) offered a much better experience for the money.

Some testers loved the scent of Weleda Skin Food Body Butter, and some found it overwhelming. Ultimately, it was the butter’s oily top layer and waxy, congealed texture that kept it off our list of picks.

Inexpensive mainstays Gold Bond Healing Hydrating Lotion and Jergens Ultra Healing Dry Skin Moisturizer both had formulas that we found too clumpy, and for one tester the Gold Bond pump broke after one use.

Both CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion (a former runner-up pick) and Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion had formulas that we found too light for remedying dry skin; we preferred the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Cream formula instead.

For all of its fancy holographic packaging, we found the thin formula of Olay Collagen Peptide Firming Body Lotion to be extremely underwhelming.

Although Tree Hut Vanilla Whipped Shea Body Butter is an inexpensive body butter, we thought its cold, jelly-like texture was unappealing.

This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter. Hannah Waters wrote an earlier version of this article.

Sources

1. Cynthia Bailey, dermatologist at Dr. Bailey Skin Care, interview , January 6,

2. Angela Lamb, associate professor, Department of Dermatology Mount Sinai , interview , December 31,

3. Onyeka Obioha, dermatologist at Boutik Dermatology by ObiohaMD, interview , February 7,

4. Papri Sarkar, dermatologist, interview , February 23,

Meet your guide

Leta Shy

What I Cover

I'm an editor whose coverage areas include our beauty, style, health, fitness, travel, outdoors, and baby/kid sections.

Further reading

• Yes, You Should Apply Body Lotion Right After a Shower (and Not Just Because You’re Nude)

  by Hannah Frye

  Applying body lotion to damp skin draws in extra moisture, helps it glide on with less relentless rubbing, and may leave you more soft than sticky.

• Nuxe Body Oil Is My Fancy-But-Affordable French Pharmacy Beauty Secret

  by Marisa Meltzer

  A French favorite, Nuxe body oil is glowy—but not glittery—smells delicious, and can get you party-ready in 5 seconds flat.

• Supergoop Sunscreen Is Worth the Splurge

  by Rose Maura Lorre

  I’m a cheapskate who always splurges on Supergoop Play Everyday SPF 50, so getting this 18-ounce pump bottle that’ll last for months feels like a win.

• This Sunscreen Claims to Work Better When You Sweat. We’re Still Not Buying It.

  by Katie Okamoto

  Shiseido says that its Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion, a broad spectrum sunscreen, works better when you sweat. We decided to investigate.

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