Knowing when to apply body lotion matters as much as which lotion you buy. Moisturizer works by trapping water in the outer layer of the skin. If you apply it at the moment the skin holds the most water, it does far more than the same product rubbed onto dry skin hours later.
The most important moment: straight after bathing
After a shower or bath, your skin has absorbed water. That water starts to evaporate at once, and it takes some of the skin's own moisture with it.
- Step out of the shower.
- Pat your skin with a towel until it is no longer dripping, but still slightly damp.
- Apply lotion within a few minutes.
This simple change is the advice dermatologists give most often for dry skin.
Other good times
| Moment | Why |
|---|---|
| After every hand wash | Soap and water strip oils from the hands |
| Before bed | Skin is undisturbed for hours, and richer products can sink in |
| After shaving or hair removal | Soothes and restores the barrier; choose fragrance-free |
| After swimming | Chlorine and salt dry the skin; rinse first |
| After sun exposure | Rehydrates; a moisturizer is not a sunscreen |
| Before going out in cold, windy weather | Protects exposed skin |
| Whenever skin feels tight or itchy | A sign that it needs moisture |
Morning or night?
Either works. The best time is straight after you wash, whenever that is.
- Morning: choose a lighter lotion that absorbs quickly under clothes. Apply sunscreen afterwards on skin that will be exposed.
- Night: use a richer cream or butter. Wear cotton nightwear to protect the sheets.
If your skin is dry, do both.
How often?
- Normal skin: once a day is usually enough.
- Dry skin: twice a day, and after every wash.
- Very dry or eczema-prone skin: as often as needed. Health services often advise applying emollients several times a day.
How much to use
People often use too little. As a rough guide for one application on an adult:
| Area | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Each arm | About one teaspoon |
| Each leg | About two teaspoons |
| Chest and stomach | About two teaspoons |
| Back | About two teaspoons |
| Hands | A pea to a small coin |
| Feet | A small coin for both |
A whole body takes about 25 to 30 ml, or roughly a shot glass. Dry skin may need more. If the product disappears at once and the skin still feels tight, apply a second layer.
How to apply
- Warm the product between your hands.
- Smooth it on in the direction of hair growth, with gentle strokes. Vigorous rubbing against the hair can irritate the follicles.
- Pay attention to shins, forearms, elbows, knees and heels.
- Wait a few minutes before dressing.
Layering with other products
- Body oil: before or after lotion, depending on the oil. See How to Use Body Oil with Body Lotion.
- Medicated creams: follow the directions from your doctor or pharmacist about the order and the gap between products.
- Sunscreen: last, on exposed skin.
- Perfume: onto clothing or covered areas, not onto freshly shaved skin.
Making it a habit
- Keep the lotion beside your towel, not in a cupboard.
- Use a pump bottle. It is quicker than a jar.
- Keep a hand cream at every sink and in your bag.
- Tie the habit to something you already do, such as brushing your teeth at night.
Signs you need to moisturize more
- White, ashy or flaky patches, especially on the shins and elbows.
- Tightness after washing.
- Itching without a rash.
- Fine cracks, or a rough feel.
If these continue despite regular moisturizing, see Dry Body Skin: Moisturizing Tips for Everyday Care, and consider a richer texture. See Body Lotion vs Cream vs Butter: Key Differences. In winter, follow Winter Body Care: A Routine for Dry Skin. The full shower routine is in Shower Routine: Simple Steps for Daily Body Care.
Related on ArniSun
- Shower Routine: Simple Steps for Daily Body Care
- Body Lotion vs Cream vs Butter: Key Differences
- Dry Body Skin: Moisturizing Tips for Everyday Care
- Winter Body Care: A Routine for Dry Skin
- How to Use Body Oil with Body Lotion
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Should I put lotion on wet or dry skin?
On damp skin, within a few minutes of bathing. The lotion traps the water that the skin has absorbed.
Is it better to moisturize in the morning or at night?
Whichever follows your shower. If your skin is dry, moisturize at both times.
Can I use too much body lotion?
Using a lot is not harmful, but excess can feel sticky and mark clothes. Apply thin layers and add more where the skin still feels dry.