There are so many types of body care products on the market. From exfoliants and cleansers to moisturizers — it can be hard to know what's best for your skin type, where you live, and what will help you combat your pesky skin concerns.
If you're new to the world of body care, the first thing you want to start with is a high-quality moisturizer. Two popular options are body lotions and body oil. While both can hydrate the skin, they are different in almost every way.
In this article, we'll explore the differences between body oil vs. lotion so you can find an option that complements your daily routine.
Here's everything you need to know:
Body Oil vs. Lotion: The Key Differences
When comparing body oil vs. body lotion, you'll find both products will leave your skin soft, supple, and moisturized. But here's how the differences compare:
Body Oil: Body oils are typically oil-based. While suitable for all skin types, individuals with dry, dull skin may benefit the most. Body oils prevent all-day moisture loss while nourishing and protecting the skin. They even provide a nice subtle glow to the skin after being applied.
Body Lotion: Lotions are water-based and more lightweight than body oil. They quickly absorb into the skin and are designed to penetrate deeper. After being applied, they leave the skin hydrated and nourished. Depending on the formula, body lotion can help with premature signs of aging or other skin concerns.
The Benefits of Body Oil vs. Lotion
While the formulas may differ, body oil vs. body lotion has similar benefits. They are both great moisturizers to consider including in your everyday routine, and here are some of the benefits of body oil vs. lotion you can look forward to.
Smoother, Firmer Skin
When comparing the formulas of body oil vs. lotion, you'll find that both products are beneficial for reducing the appearance of cellulite, hyperpigmentation, and stretch marks. During our 12-week user trials, 94% agreed the appearance of cellulite is diminished with The Body Oil*, while 94% agreed the appearance of stretch marks is diminished with The Body Lotion.*
*Based on a 12-week Consumer Perception Study of 55 subjects.
Support Skin Elasticity
Applying body oil daily will give your skin a bouncy feel. These products can help Support your skin's natural elasticity and help you achieve a more youthful appearance. While using The Body Oil, 98% agree dehydrated skin feels instantly supple and more elastic.
Deeply Hydrates and Nourishes
Both body lotion and body oil can help support skin barrier function and prevent transepidermal water loss. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas keep the skin hydrated and nourished throughout the day. All participants who took part in our user trials agreed that The Body Oil transforms the appearance of dry skin, while 94% of them agreed that The Body Lotion leaves the skin feeling hydrated throughout the day.
Layering Your Skincare: When to Use a Body Oil or Lotion
If your skin needs extra TLC, you can also consider layering body oil and lotion. If you choose to layer the two, you'll want to use the thinnest to thickest approach.
When you learn how to use body oil and how to layer it with lotion, first, apply your favorite body lotion to your body. Then, finish the process by adding the desired amount of body oil. This approach is ideal for the colder months and will help you achieve ultra-hydrated, glowy skin.
How Skin Type Affects Your Skincare Routine
Your skin type will dictate your routine. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you'll want to avoid body lotions with fragrance, mineral oil, or alcohol. If you have dry skin, you'll want to look for formulas that contain ultra-hydrating ingredients, like argan oil or vitamin E, to help preserve your skin's moisture barrier.
At Augustinus Bader, our body lotion and body oil are suitable for all skin types. When comparing body oil vs. body lotion for dry skin, we find individuals with extremely dry skin benefit most from the body oil. While our body oil contains non-comedogenic ingredients, it may not be the most suitable option for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin.
Changing Your Skincare Routine Through the Seasons
Depending on where you live and the time of the year, you may want to switch between a body oil vs. body lotion. If you continue using the same body and skincare routine from winter to summer, your skincare may leave your skin feeling greasy or not hydrated enough. Here's how the seasons compare.
Winter and Fall
When it gets colder, the humidity drops. Depending on where you live, you may start running your heater inside, which can dry out your skin even more. To protect your skin from the changes in humidity, you'll want to switch to a thicker body lotion with ultra-hydrating ingredients. Colder weather is also a great time to layer your body lotion with body oil. Consider adding a hand cream into your routine to protect your hands from drying out while you're on the go.
Summer and Spring
Once the temperatures rise, you'll want to consider switching to just body oil. Body oil will help you achieve a nice summer glow. Consider a lightweight body lotion or a gel moisturizer if your skin needs more hydration and nourishment. Don't forget to continue wearing your SPF and to always have lip balm on hand to avoid dryness.
Clinically Proven: Explore Augustinus Bader Lotions and Body Oils
At Augustinus Bader, we've spent over 30 years fine-tuning and perfecting our approach to skincare. Our products are backed by clinical study data and are powered by TFC8® technology.
During our user trials, 100% of participants agreed that The Body Oil left their skin feeling intensely hydrated, nourished, and smooth. 100% of participants also agreed that their skin texture significantly improved, and 96% agreed that their skin felt protected and strengthened.
We tested The Body Lotion in the same 12-week trials, and 98% of participants agreed that it protects against dehydration, dryness, chaps, and rough skin. 96% of participants also experienced a noticeable reduction in skin imperfections.
No matter which moisturizer you choose, both products are formulated to revive the appearance of dry, dull skin and help you achieve a more balanced, supple look.
Explore our selection of body care today.
Body Oil vs. Lotion FAQs
Is it better to use body oil or lotion?
There is no right or wrong answer. It depends on your preference, time of year, and unique skin type.
Can I replace moisturizer with body oil?
Yes, body oils are lightweight and fast-absorbing. They are a great body lotion alternative during the warmer months of summer or spring.
Do I need to use lotion if I use body oil?
It never hurts to have a body lotion and body oil on hand. Body oil can be great for your skin, but a good body lotion is ideal for colder winter months when your skin needs more hydration.
