Editor Tip: This lotion has a thicker feel than others on the market due to its heavyweight moisturizing ingredients. While it’s soothing for dry skin types, those with oily skin may want a lighter option.
Key Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, glycerin | Who It’s For: Anyone with dryness
Frequently Asked Questions
How is body lotion different from facial lotion?
Not only is body lotion housed in larger containers than facial lotion, but there are key compositional differences to what’s going inside that bottle. “[Body lotions] are usually thicker in texture and focus primarily on hydration and moisturization,” explains David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City. “It’s best to apply to damp skin,” he adds.
Like facial lotions, body lotions can be formulated to cater to specific skin issues, often using overlapping active ingredients. Despite similarities, how the skin on different body parts responds to high concentrations of active ingredients can vary. “The skin on the body is more sensitive to the dryness and irritation that can be caused by some active ingredients, like acne-smoothing salicylic acid or line-smoothing retinol,” Ryan Turner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC and co-founder of TRNR Skin previously told Allure.
“An active ingredient would be modified for skin on the body versus facial skin,” Dr. Turner continued. “The skin on the body cannot typically tolerate the same strength or type of retinol [for example] as the face. Facial skin has more density of sebaceous glands compared to the body so facial products tend to be formulated lighter [in texture].”
How do I choose a body lotion?
When choosing a body lotion, Dr. Greenfield says to look out for emollients like hydrating hyaluronic acid, moisturizing additives like glycerin and ceramides, and oils derived from coconut, almond, avocado, or jojoba. She recommends formulas with free radical-fighting antioxidants like vitamins C and E.
Stay goal-oriented when searching for a new body lotion, considering the benefits you’re after. “It depends on exactly what you are hoping to improve. If you have acne, look for options with salicylic acid; if you’re targeting ketosis pilaris, look for ammonium lactate or urea; if you’re hoping to improve hydration, look for ceramide, fatty acids, glycerin, and colloidal oats,” says Dr. Kim.
What is the best type of body lotion?
While different skin concerns call for various formulations, Dr. Wang says mildly exfoliating body lotions are ideal for all skin types — especially for people who experience body acne. “[Using exfoliating body lotions] is especially important in acne-prone skin because the skin barrier is disrupted, and there is underlying inflammation,” he says. “Lotions that contain mild glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid can be helpful as long as they are not overused, which can lead to sensitive skin.” Dr. Greenfield adds that acne-prone skin types should avoid ingredients considered occlusive, including heavy, petroleum-jelly-based creams or oils because they can trap bacteria under the skin.
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
