Body Oil or Lotion? Which Is Right for You?

Hydrating your skin is essential, but it’s crucial to know what you’re moisturizing with. But should you pick body oil or lotion? Read on to discover more about body oils and lotions and the occasions where someone would prefer one over the other.

How They Are Made

Body oils are made purely from oil. They don’t contain water, emulsifiers or, in some instances, a preservative. However, rosemary extracts or vitamin E and an antioxidant may be added to increase the shelf life and prevent rancidity, though this is unnecessary.

In addition, instead of using synthetic fragrances, body oils are usually scented with other essential oils. You should avoid the ones scented with grapefruit or lemon because they can enhance sunburns.

On the other hand, body lotions are made of a mixture of oil and water, approximately 65%, or an alternative water-soluble substance like aloe. An emulsifier blends the two. Since water is available in lotions, they are prone to bacteria; a preservative is added to keep them out and give them a longer shelf life.

Unlike body oils, lotions can use a wide variety of fragrances. Some even add a substance known as phthalate to stabilize the scent.

How They Work

Body oils mimic our body’s natural oils on the skin; therefore, they are easily absorbed by its outer protective layer. Once absorbed, they hydrate the skin and lock in moisture; therefore, they are quite effective for dry skins. Also, since they don’t have any added chemicals and substances, they are very safe to use.

Body lotions are mainly made up of water, so they will easily penetrate through the skin. Their ingredients will rejuvenate the skin and hydrate and soothe it for beautiful, radiant skin.

When to Use Body Oils

• Warm weather – While lotions are a mix of oil and water, body oils aren’t as thick and creamy, making them ideal for warmer months. In addition, they give your skin a natural glow when exposed to the sun.
• Regulating sebum production – Since body oils resemble our body’s natural oils, they can help regulate and repair the skin’s moisture barrier, making your skin healthier. This property makes them ideal for dry to very dry skins.
• Sensitive – If your skin is sensitive to most chemicals and ingredients, body oils may be your best option. They are made with little to no extra added ingredients.

When to Use Body Lotions

• Dry skins – As mentioned earlier, body lotions are made up of 65% water; therefore, they work best in keeping your skin hydrated. The oil part of it helps to lock up this moisture within the skin.
• Specific skin needs – Body lotions are made with a variety of ingredients, so if you have a particular goal like reducing acne, you can find lotions formulated to do just that.
• As a skin moisturizer – Lotions can also help to keep your skin moisturized for longer. They also help in soothing and rejuvenating the skin giving it a healthier glow.

Depending on your skin type and the specific quality you are looking for, you can choose a body oil or lotion. But, if you are unsure which one is best, you can try them both while making observations before you settle for one. Moreover, you can also use them both—depending on the condition.