At Clean Beauty Collective we think you should treat the skin from the neck down with as much reverence as the face. Like the latter, there are a multitude of beautiful products from which to pick your poison. Some swear by body oils whilst others are committed to a cream or lotion, but really – what is the better option?

The case for body oils

Both body oil and lotion are designed to effectively moisturise the skin, but oils can really help re-introduce lost moisture in the skin post-cleansing or exfoliating. When used correctly, they sink right in and get to work soothing and repairing. Oils also regulate sebum production, making them great cleansers too. 

Quality body oils are always a great choice for their absorbent properties, and because many vegetable-based oils like avocado and jojoba mimic the natural lipids found in our skin, help regulate its moisture barrier. The moisture barrier is responsible for oil production, so applying a great oil to it can help keep things balanced and happy.

One thing to keep in mind is that because of their occlusive nature, oils will work better when your skin is wet. They help lock in water, so are at their best when slathered on while your skin is slightly damp from a shower or bath. Immediately after jumping out of the shower, gently pat the skin dry with a towel, and then apply your oil of choice, mixing with droplets of water still left on the skin. This will help lock in all the hydration your skin needs to stay healthy, and always allow a few minutes before dressing to avoid any transfer.

The case for body lotion

Most body lotions are part water-based and come with added extras to treat different skincare concerns. Many formulas worth their salt now come with added antioxidant properties, or are fragrance-free so as not to irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Because they’re partly water-based, some lotions are better at penetrating the skin and can deliver ingredients that improve the ability of skin to maintain moisture. Lotions that have the likes of hyaluronic acid and ceramides in their ingredient deck are especially good, as they can help the skin’s own water-retaining abilities increase over time.

The lighter, creamier texture of a body lotion also makes it perfect as an everyday moisturiser in the summer or for skin that is already supple and soft. Or, if you’ve already used a body oil earlier in the day and your skin needs a little pick-me-up later on, lotion will perfectly rehydrate your skin without any after-feel.

The verdict

Sorry, but it really comes down to personal preference. We recommend that you keep both around so you’re prepared for your skin’s dry patches and blissfully bouncy days. Listen to what your skin needs and allow your routine to flow with the seasons and the climate, and prepare to indulge in some of our favourite picks below…

Ethique Sweet Orange & Vanilla Butter Block

This beauty lets you go completely plastic-free, as Ethique has made a world-class body lotion in a divine buttery block. Cocoa butter alongside lecithin, babassu and coconut oils along with pure essential oils have been used to create a bar that is easy to use, supremely hydrating and fabulous for heels, elbows or anywhere else needing a little TLC. Best used straight after a shower on damp skin, this baby is equivalent to almost 500ml of liquid lotion. 

Pure Body Luxe Heal

With geranium, lemon, and tangerine essential oils to create an uplifting citrus fragrance, HEAL uses a select combination of botanical oils and oil extracts formulated to work together to provide intense hydration for dry, damaged, and moisture depleted skin. It helps restore the natural microbiota balance of the skin and promotes healthy cell healing and rejuvenation. Oh, and did we mention it smells divine?

Essence of Humanity Oneness Balm

The ultimate soothing treatment! Warm a little of this beauty up using your fingertips and watch the unique formula transform from a cream into an easily-absorbed balm that melts into your skin on contact. Perfect for chapped, chaffed or dry areas, this nourishing cream creates a natural barrier to seal in hydration and shield against external aggressors. Skin feels protected, nourished and revitalised thanks to key ingredients like Mafura Butter and Kalahari Melon Seed Oil, while extracts of Rooibos and Kiwi Seed drench the skin with vitamins and antioxidant protection. Delicious.