FAQs:

How often should you apply body lotion?

“For most people, a single daily application of body moisturiser is sufficient,” explains Dr Derrick. “However, those with particularly dry skin might need benefit from reapplying at night.” We’d recommend applying at the same time as your night cream so that you don’t forget.

What ingredients should you look for in a body moisturiser?

A group of ingredients designed to draw water into the skin, humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, and aloe vera are definitely worth looking out for in your body moisturiser. “Hyaluronic acid helps to retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated, while glycerin draws moisture from the air into your skin,” Dr Sindhu explains.

Emollients like cocoa butter, shea butter, and natural oils also play an essential role in smoothing and softening the skin. “Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids, making it excellent for nourishing and moisturising,” Dr Sindhu adds. Meanwhile, occlusives like petrolatum help form a protective barrier to protect against water loss – making them a great pick for especially dry and eczema-prone skin.

Finally, look out for active ingredients that’ll help target your specific skin concerns. For example, niacinamide can really help with uneven skin tone, while ceramides help strengthen and repair the skin barrier. “If you’re prone to acne on the body, look for moisturisers containing BHAs or AHAs like salicylic acid or lactic acid, which help to exfoliate the skin and unblock pores,” suggests Dr Sindhu. For your face, shop the best face exfoliators.

What are the benefits of using a body moisturiser?

As well as helping your skin look and feel its absolute best, the best body moisturisers play a crucial role in preventing dryness and tightness, supporting the skin’s protective barrier, and supporting recovery after shaving or sun exposure. And – of course – they also leave your whole body seriously soft and supple.

“Daily outdoor exposure can also result in damage or act as a stimulus for skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema,” Dr Munir adds. “It is therefore especially important to moisturise and protect the skin barrier.”

What’s the best way to apply body lotion?

“Body moisturisers should be applied immediately after baths and showers,” explains Dr Derrick – especially as showering in hot water can actually strip your skin of a lot of its natural oils. Ideally, apply your chosen cream or lotion on damp skin to help lock-in more moisture. You can apply body cream after exfoliating to allow for better absorption of active ingredients, notes Dr Munir.

Can you use your body lotion on your face?

Only if it specifically says so on the product label. Otherwise, likely not – as many lotions contain heavy ingredients and fragrances that would likely irritate the more delicate skin on your face.

Is it okay to use fragranced formulas?

Dr Munir recommends avoiding fragranced formulas and essential oils for fear of irritation and their potential to compromise the skin barrier. Dr Sindhu, on the other hand, says to proceed with caution.

“It is generally okay to use fragranced formulas unless you have sensitive skin or are allergic to certain fragrances,” she notes. “If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free moisturisers to avoid any potential irritation.”

Looking to revolutionise your body care and skincare routine? Be sure to check out our guides on the best hand creams, best shower gels and body washes, best hyaluronic acid serum, best vitamin C serums, best fake tans and the best body scrubs and exfoliators.