Ceramides
Body Lotions, Creams and Moisturisers

A body lotion, moisturiser or cream is applied to maintain moisture and hydration in the skin. Different skin concerns require different methods of care, and so it is important to understand your skin type before committing to a product (learn more here on Skin Types 101). Exfoliating moisturisers work effectively for dry, rough and bumpy skin, and hydrating body lotions formulated with hyaluronic acid and the three essential ceramides typically work to enhance hydration in dry skin and strengthen the skin's natural barrier.

Body lotion offers numerous benefits for maintaining healthy and comfortable skin. The primary benefit of a body lotion is that it hydrates the skin, preventing dryness and discomfort. By replenishing moisture, lotion can also improve skin elasticity and suppleness, contributing to a softer, smoother texture. Lotions are also beneficial in strengthening the skin barrier, shielding against environmental aggressors and irritants. Regular use of body lotion contributes to the skin’s overall condition and a more radiant appearance.

Body lotions vary widely depending on their ingredients, intended use, and consistency. Here are some of the most common types:

• Moisturising lotions: These are the standard type of body lotion, primarily focused on hydrating and softening the skin.

• Firming lotions: Firming body lotions are formulated to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of skin texture and sagging skin. They can contain active ingredients like retinol that visibly reduce signs of skin ageing. 

• Brightening lotions: A skin-brightening lotion will hydrate while supporting a more radiant complexion. They contain ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or licorice extract to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

• Repairing lotions: Aimed at hydrating and repairing the skin and may contain ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, or other ingredients that support the skin's moisture barrier function.

Both body lotions and body creams provide hydration for the skin, but differ in consistency. Body creams are generally thicker and richer for more intense hydration. Lotions are more lightweight and absorb more quickly.

Body butter is even thicker and richer than body cream, providing deep hydration for extremely dry or rough skin.

Body milk has a thinner consistency than lotion and absorbs very quickly, making it ideal for normal to oily skin or for use during warmer months.

Ingredients and consistency are two factors to consider when choosing a body lotion for your skin type. Here’s what we recommend: 

• For dry skin: Look for thicker, richer lotions containing ingredients like shea butter or cocoa butter, as well as ingredients that strengthen the skin moisture barrier. Humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin will also help draw moisture from the air to restore hydration in dry skin. 

• Sensitive skin: Use formulas with minimal ingredients to reduce the risk of irritation. Look for lotions that are fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and that contain comforting ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

• Oily/blemish-prone skin: Choose lightweight lotions that absorb quickly and are labelled as non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores. You can also opt for an exfoliating lotion formulated with salicylic acid, so you can remove excess oil and dead skin cells while nourishing the skin. 

• Mature skin: Restore skin elasticity and even out skin tone with anti-ageing lotions containing peptides, retinol and other collagen-promoting ingredients. Richer formulas are also better for mature skin that’s more prone to drying out.

The best body lotions for dry skin, deeply moisturise with humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, as well as skin-identical lipids that can strengthen the protective moisture barrier. CeraVe suggests the Intensive Moisturising Lotion, a deeply nourishing formula with MVE technology and Hydro-Urea, ideal for dry and very dry skin.

Body lotion can be applied once daily or as needed. For rough or cracked skin, or dry skin on the heels and soles of the feet you may need to apply more frequently. To help lock in moisture, apply after showering or bathing when skin is slightly damp.

Storage and application techniques can play a role in making your body lotion last longer: 

• Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your lotion in direct sunlight or in excessively humid areas (like the bathroom), as this can degrade the ingredients and shorten its shelf life.

• Keep the container tightly closed: This prevents evaporation and contamination, helping the lotion maintain its consistency and effectiveness.

• Apply to damp skin: To improve its efficacy, apply lotion to slightly damp skin, after showering or bathing. Applying lotion to damp skin helps lock in moisture more effectively. 

• Start with a small amount: A little lotion goes a long way. Begin with a small amount and add more if needed.

• Focus on dry areas: Concentrate on areas that tend to be drier, such as elbows, knees, and heels. You don't need to apply lotion to every inch of your body if some areas are well hydrated already. 

• Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, which can improve your lotion’s absorption into your skin, which prevents you from wasting it on the skin’s surface.

• Use a lotion applicator: Tools like lotion applicators or back brushes can help you moisturise hard-to-reach areas, like your back, more easily, ensuring even application and reducing waste.