BODY LOTIONS, MOISTURISERS AND BODY CREAMS

Body lotion is a skincare product formulated to moisturise, hydrate and soften thick skin on the body. Body lotions can contain a number of different ingredients, like humectants, emollients, skin identical lipids (including essential ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol) and topical derivatives of beneficial vitamins, to strengthen the skin and address certain skin concerns unique to the body. They can be multi-purpose, suitable for use on the face, or formulated specifically for skin on the body.

“Body lotion” and “body moisturiser” are often used interchangeably, but products categorised as a lotion and those labelled as moisturiser usually differ in a few ways. A body lotion is normally thinner in consistency to lightly hydrate more robust skin on the body. They can also be formulated with higher concentrations of emollients that might not be suitable for the face. Body moisturisers, on the other hand, have a thicker consistency, making them more moisturising on the skin and better for very dry skin. Though not always the case, body moisturisers may also be multi-use and suitable for use on the face.

Dry skin is characterised by increased sensitivity, itching sensations, visible flakes and tightness. A body lotion for dry and very dry skin should include ingredients that restore the skin’s essential lipids and help the skin absorb and seal in moisture for all-day hydration. Niacinamide, and madecassoside and shea butter all help comfort dry skin while strengthening the skin moisture barrier. Additionally, hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 (panthenol) are two humectants that provide hydration by absorbing and locking in large amounts of water. For dry skin, dehydrated skin or for skin with a compromised moisture barrier, we recommend the Cicaplast Baume B5+ Balm Cream 1-2 times daily.

Mature skin is more likely to be prone to dehydration and a compromised moisture barrier, which can lead to sensitive, dry skin, rough patches and a crepey skin texture. As we age, collagen production and skin cell renewal slows down, leading to a loss of skin elasticity and skin firmness. To combat this, the best anti-ageing body creams should deeply nourish the skin, formulated with ingredients that strengthen the moisture barrier, promote collagen production and support skin cell renewal. Body lotions containing niacinamide and panthenol are particularly beneficial for very dry skin prone to redness and irritation. For collagen production and antioxidant protection, look for non-greasy formulas containing madecassoside, like the Cicaplast Baume B5+ Balm Cream

For sensitive skin, look for a gentle body lotion or moisturiser that’s free of parabens, fragrance and any harsh ingredients that often irritate this skin type. Key ingredients to consider if you have sensitive skin prone to redness and irritation are: hyaluronic acid, panthenol, niacinamide, shea butter. Avoid high concentrations of harsh exfoliants, like salicylic acid, and avoid formulas with sulfates and astringents. La Roche-Posay’s range of body lotions and moisturisers have been developed for allergy-prone skin. For very sensitive skin, we recommend the Lipikar AP+M Body Balm Cream or the Lipikar Lait Body Lotion. Both formulas are enriched with nourishing shea butter and comforting niacinamide to leave the skin feeling nourished and soft.

Skin on the body is not as sensitive as facial skin, so there are a few things to keep in mind when using a body lotion or moisturiser to ensure proper use. Here’s what to consider when using a body lotion or moisturiser:

• Frequency: You can use body lotion 1-2 times a day, depending on your skin type and condition. Most skin types will only need to be applied once a day, but for parts of the body that are particularly rough or dehydrated you may reapply more than twice daily as needed.
• When to use body lotion: For most, there's no preferred time of day to apply a body lotion. Most are suitable for use during the day or at night.
• To improve absorption: Moisturiser absorbs better on wet skin so apply moisturiser after showering or bathing for optimal hydration.
• Amount: You can apply a generous amount of body lotion. Generally speaking, a dollop the size of a 50-cent piece is roughly enough to cover the entire body.
• Skin type: Taking care of the skin will vary from person to person, so to ensure the best body moisturiser for you, factor in your skin type and skin goals before committing to a new product.
• Area of the body: Some parts of the body are more prone to dehydration and dry skin and may have rough patches that need a richer moisturising cream. Similarly, some parts of your body are more exposed to UV rays and free radicals that can compromise the moisture barrier, so will need more attention than skin rarely exposed to the sun.
• Adjusting for seasonality: Body moisturisers and lotions are suitable for all skin types, but climate and seasonality may influence its necessity. Dry skin exposed to harsh, cold, winds may opt for a richer body cream to restore hydration. On the other end, oily skin types might choose a lotion with a lighter consistency to minimise pore-clogging caused by a buildup of sweat and oil.
• Sun protection: For parts of the body that will be exposed to the sun, follow up your daily body lotion with a broad-spectrum, high SPF sunscreen to protect from UV rays.