If you’re tired of lotions that never seem to fully hydrate your skin, body oils might be the upgrade your self-care routine needs. Lightweight yet nourishing, they lock in moisture, leaving your skin soft, smooth and radiant. The secret is knowing which ingredients match your skin type and applying them correctly for maximum benefits.
Here are the top ingredients to look for and the best ways to apply body oil for stunning results.
The benefits of body oils
Body oils are a luxurious way to restore hydration to your skin through effective, natural ingredients.
Dr. Nicole Hayre, MD, FAAD and CEO of Cutocin, says body oils can make your skin feel smooth and protected.
“Body oils are designed to lock in moisture on the skin and can have a nice feel to them, especially if someone has dry skin,” Hayre says. “Many of these oils have antioxidants and help to protect the skin barrier.”
Shanna Bynes Bradford, Licensed Medical Aesthetician and CEO of Grow Out Oils, says body oils can take your skin back to healthy hydration levels.
“Oils contain occlusive benefits and are great for sealing skin moisture,” Bradford says. “Body oils also help to protect the skin barrier by creating a protective barrier on the skin surface to prevent transepidermal water loss.”
Understanding your skin type
The right oil for you depends on your skin type. Before you pick a bottle, consider which one of the five main skin types you are — dry, oily, combination, normal or sensitive. Dry skin will love a good body oil, while oily and combination may feel too greasy with the wrong ingredients. If you have sensitive skin, always read product labels and do spot tests before applying an oil all over.
Once you know your skin type, it’s easier to choose oils that nourish without causing greasiness or breakouts. Using the wrong oils can feel heavy or sticky, so matching your oil to your skin type ensures maximum benefits and comfort.
The 6 best body oil ingredients and what they do
Picking the right ingredients is key to making your body oil routine effective. Here are some top-performing oils that work wonders for the skin.
1. Jojoba
Jojoba oil is very skin-friendly and supports a healthy skin barrier, making it a good choice to try for almost anyone.
“Jojoba oil is known for closely resembling human sebum and is very compatible with the skin,” Bradford says. “It is perfect for after the shower due to its light weight and is easily absorbed without leaving a residue on the skin.”
2. Sweet almond
Gentle, nourishing and packed with vitamins A and E, almond oil is another great choice for all skin types. Bradford says that it’s easily absorbed and leaves skin soft without any heavy residue, and it’s particularly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
3. Coconut
For dry skin and skin barrier repair, Bradford recommends coconut oil.
“Coconut oil is very rich and contains medium chain fatty acids to help retain moisture and soften the skin,” Bradford says. “Coconut oil also contains powerful antioxidants to help reduce and neutralize free radicals and help reduce moisture loss and skin barrier repair.”
4. Argan oil
Argan oil is packed with vitamin E, antioxidants and essential fatty acids that help seal in moisture and support a healthy skin barrier.
“Argan oil helps to seal in moisture, soften the skin, support the skin barrier and it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidants properties, which helps the skin in the healing process,” Bradford says
5. Chamomile
Hayre recommends chamomile for its powerful soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for sensitive or irritated skin. It is typically infused into a carrier oil, like sunflower or jojoba. Chamomile’s calming nature helps reduce redness and discomfort, making it perfect for use after sun exposure or on skin prone to irritation.
How to apply body oils
Applying body oil correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. You should always apply oils to clean skin, ideally right after a shower or bath.
“When applied right after a shower, it is quickly absorbed into the skin, sealing in existing water on the skin’s surface, leaving a softened texture and protective barrier,” Bradford says.
Hayre also recommends only using oil on the body.
“They are formulated for the body and should not be used on the face,” Hayre says. “They should not be applied over wounds or broken areas of the skin, or on private areas.”
Here are a few additional tips for the best results:
- Pour a small amount into your hands and cup them to warm the oil.
- Use circular motions to apply it to your skin, focusing on dry areas like elbows, knees and heels.
- Less is more. Start with a few drops and add more if needed.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy soft, hydrated skin without the greasy feel.
Product recommendations
If you’re ready to pick up some body oils, here are some products to treat yourself:
- Dessert Essence 100% Pure Jojoba Oil is lightweight, absorbent and perfect for after the shower.
- Earth’s Care 100% Natural Sweet Almond Oil is gentle, nourishing and ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
- Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is rich in hydration and an antioxidant boost for dehydrated skin.
- Cococare Argan Oil 100% Natural Moroccan seals in moisture and supports skin healing.
These oils make it easy to create your perfect body care routine. Mix and match oils or layer them for custom hydration.
Ready, set, glow
Body oils are hydration heroes, skin barrier protectors and a touch of self-care luxury all in one. Whether you stick to one oil or experiment with blends, knowing how to choose and apply them makes all the difference. Start small, massage mindfully and enjoy the glowing, nourished skin that follows.