Body oils and body lotions are two super moisturising products to add to your winter skincare arsenal. While both of them serve the same purpose, we do wonder if using a body oil over the traditional body lotion comes with extra benefits. So, we went ahead and did some research to find out the real difference between the two.
It turns out, both of them have their own pros and cons. So, to save you the hassle of deciding which one is good for you, we’ve listed down the difference between a body oil and body lotion — and which one to pick depending on your skin type.
Benefits of using body oil
The main benefit of using a body oil in your winter skincare routine is obviously unmatched hydration. Body oils help to strengthen your skin’s barrier function to seal in moisture and prevent your skin from getting dry too quickly. Since oils mimic the natural lipids in the skin, it helps regulate sebum production, making it an ideal choice for people with oily and acne-prone skin. Additionally, body oils also lend an envious glow to your otherwise dry and dull winter skin.
Cons of using body oil
Even though body oils are incredibly hydrating, they tend to come with their own set of limitations. For starters, body oils tend to be too greasy. Additionally, most oils have a thicker consistency and can’t penetrate into the deeper levels of your skin.
Benefits of using body lotion
If you think that people with dry skin would benefit more from body oils, then you’re absolutely wrong. Body lotions are god-sent for those with dry skin. This is because most body lotions are mostly formulated with water, which helps your skin retain moisture and keeps it skin soft and supple. Additionally, the lightweight texture of a body lotion sinks right into your skin, thereby hydrating it to the deepest levels. Also, body lotions tend to contain both oil and water, along with a host of other skin-loving ingredients, making it an absolute saviour for dry skin.
Cons of using body lotion
While there are no severe cons to using body lotions, it can still sometimes end up having an adverse reaction. Especially if you are allergic to some ingredients in the product. Also, some body lotions contain fragrance and other potential irritants that might be a little too harsh for sensitive skin, causing skin irritation.
Which one should you use?
TBH, there is no one answer to this because it really depends on your personal preference. Body oils work well just after a shower on damp skin, as it helps to seal in moisture and make your skin glow. But if you’re looking for a quick dose of hydration in the middle of the day, a lotion would obviously work better. Therefore, it isn’t about which one should you use, but when should you use both. We recommend you to get yourself one bottle of each to keep your skin healthy and moisturised this winter season.
Written by Urvi Dalal on Dec 16, 2020
Writer, avid reader and hardcore beauty enthusiast is the best way to describe Urvi Dalal. With over 5 years of writing experience in the beauty industry, you can trust her to have the latest skin, hair and makeup tidbits on her fingertips. In her time working as a beauty writer, she has had the opportunity to interact and work closely with a string of dermatologists, makeup artists and hairstylists. All that knowledge exchange, coupled with her flair and love for writing make it possible for her to bring you some authentic yet fun beauty content. When Urvi isn’t working, you’d usually catch her curled up with a big, fat book, drinking a cup of tea or practising her makeup skills; there is no in-between!