Body butter vs lotion vs body oil

Lotion, cream, body butter and body oil all moisturize, but they do it with different balances of water, oils and butters. Knowing what each one does, and when to apply it, makes the choice simple. The guidance here comes from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and Cleveland Clinic.

Three kinds of moisturizing ingredients

Cleveland Clinic groups moisturizer ingredients into three types:

• Humectants attract and bind water to the skin. Examples: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea.
• Emollients form a film on the outer layer of skin that smooths it. Many plant oils and butters act this way.
• Occlusives form a thicker coating that does not dissolve in water and slows water loss. Examples: petrolatum, mineral oil, lanolin.

The AAD lists petrolatum, glycerin, shea butter, lactic acid and hyaluronic acid among helpful moisturizer ingredients.

Lotion, cream, butter, oil

• Lotion has the highest water content and the thinnest texture. It spreads easily and suits normal skin and warm weather.
• Cream is thicker, with more oil. The AAD notes that creams and ointments add more moisture to skin and are more effective than lotions.
• Body butter is richer still, often whipped from shea, mango, cocoa or avocado butter with little or no water. It suits dry skin, elbows, knees and winter.
• Body oil is oil without water. It spreads best on damp skin and leaves a light sheen; some makers use theirs on hair and beards too.

When to apply

The AAD advises applying moisturizer while skin is still damp; Cleveland Clinic puts it at within three minutes of getting out of the shower or bath. Pat dry, then apply.

Fragrance-free vs unscented

These are not the same. The AAD explains that “unscented” products can contain chemicals that neutralize or hide odors, while “fragrance-free” means no scent chemicals were added. If fragrance bothers your skin, look for fragrance-free and read the ingredient list on the product page.

How to patch test

The AAD suggests applying a new product to a quarter-sized spot on the underside of the arm or the bend of the elbow, twice a day for seven to ten days, and stopping if the area becomes red, itchy or swollen.

What these products are not

Everything in this category is a cosmetic. Products that claim to treat eczema, psoriasis or other skin conditions are drugs under FDA rules, and StageLook does not list them. If you have a skin condition, see a dermatologist.

Choosing from our range

Browse body butters and creams from CB, TERRA-TORY and Shea Radiance, and body oils from TERRA-TORY, Rancho Bombero and Smoke Perfume. Each page shows the maker’s full ingredient list.