Using body oil with body lotion gives very dry skin two kinds of help. Lotion supplies water and ingredients that hold it in the skin. Oil softens the surface and slows down evaporation. Together they leave skin smoother for longer than either does alone, as long as you apply them in a sensible order and do not overdo the amount.
What each product does
| Body lotion or cream | Body oil | |
|---|---|---|
| Contains water | Yes | No |
| Humectants that attract water | Usually | No |
| Softens and smooths | Yes | Yes |
| Seals in moisture | Somewhat | Yes |
| Finish | Matte to soft | Sheen, glow |
Oil by itself adds no water. On dry skin it can feel smooth for an hour, while the skin underneath stays thirsty. This is why oil works best on damp skin or with a lotion. Moisturizer Ingredients: Humectants, Emollients, and Occlusives explains how these ingredient types work.
Three ways to use them together
1. Lotion first, then oil
Apply lotion to damp skin after bathing. While it is still slightly tacky, press a small amount of oil over the top. The oil seals in the lotion. This order suits thicker oils and very dry skin.
2. Oil on wet skin, then lotion
Straight after showering, while your skin is still wet, smooth on a little oil. It spreads easily and traps the water. Follow with lotion on the driest areas, if needed. This suits light, fast-absorbing oils.
3. Mix them in your palm
Add a few drops of oil to a pump of lotion and apply them as one. This is the quickest method, and it is useful in winter when your usual lotion is not quite rich enough.
There is no single correct order. Try each, and keep the one that leaves your skin comfortable without feeling greasy.
How much to use
- Start with a teaspoon of oil for the whole body.
- Add a few drops more for the legs and arms, if needed.
- If your skin is still shiny after five minutes, you have used too much. Blot with a towel.
Choosing a body oil
| Oil | Character | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Squalane | Very light, no scent | Most skin types, including sensitive |
| Jojoba | Light, absorbs well | Normal to oily skin |
| Sweet almond | Medium, softening | Dry skin; avoid with nut allergy |
| Sunflower or safflower | Light to medium | Dry and sensitive skin |
| Grapeseed | Light | Normal to oily skin |
| Coconut | Rich, solid when cool | Very dry body skin; may clog pores on the chest and back |
| Mineral oil, baby oil | Light, very good at sealing | Dry skin; rarely irritating |
| "Dry oils" | Blends designed to sink in quickly | Daytime use |
Fragranced oils and blends with essential oils can irritate sensitive or freshly shaved skin. Choose fragrance-free if your skin reacts easily.
Where oil helps most
- Shins, forearms and other areas that flake.
- Elbows, knees and heels.
- Cuticles and hands, at bedtime.
- Skin that looks dull or ashy.
Where to be careful
- Chest, back and shoulders, if you get body acne. Rich oils can clog pores.
- The soles of the feet in the shower. Oil makes floors dangerously slippery.
- Before sun exposure. Oil is not a sunscreen, and it can make sunscreen slide. Apply sunscreen last, on dry skin.
- Before dressing in silk or pale fabrics. Wait until the oil has absorbed.
In-shower oils
Some oils are made to be applied to wet skin in the shower and lightly rinsed or patted dry. They leave a thin moisturizing film. Take care on a wet floor, and clean the shower tray afterwards.
A routine for very dry skin
- Take a short, warm shower with a gentle cleanser.
- Pat your skin until it is damp.
- Apply a cream with glycerin or urea.
- Press a thin layer of oil over the legs, arms and any rough patches.
- Put on cotton pajamas.
Storage
Keep oils closed, cool and out of sunlight. Plant oils can turn rancid. Discard an oil that smells sharp, sour or like old nuts.
For timing your moisturizer, see When to Apply Body Lotion for Your Daily Routine. For choosing between lotion, cream and butter, see Body Lotion vs Cream vs Butter: Key Differences. The same logic applies to the face. See Face Oil vs Moisturizer: Do You Need Both?. If dryness persists, read Dry Body Skin: Moisturizing Tips for Everyday Care.
Related on ArniSun
- Body Lotion vs Cream vs Butter: Key Differences
- When to Apply Body Lotion for Your Daily Routine
- Face Oil vs Moisturizer: Do You Need Both?
- Dry Body Skin: Moisturizing Tips for Everyday Care
- Moisturizer Ingredients: Humectants, Emollients, and Occlusives
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Does body oil go on before or after lotion?
Both orders work. Lotion first and oil on top seals in the most moisture. Light oils can also go on wet skin before lotion.
Can I use body oil instead of lotion?
On damp skin, a body oil can be enough for normal or slightly dry skin. Very dry skin does better with a lotion or cream as well, because oil adds no water.
Why does body oil make my skin feel greasy?
You may be using too much, applying it to dry skin, or using an oil that is too heavy. Use a few drops on damp skin, or choose a lighter oil.