Top 20 Best Body Lotion for Dry Skin

Dry skin can be frustrating to deal with, especially during the winter months. Fortunately, there are plenty of body lotions out there designed to hydrate and nourish dry skin.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the top 20 best body lotions for dry skin, so you can keep your skin feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized all year round. From drugstore favorites to high-end luxury options, we’ll cover a range of products to suit every budget and preference.

So, whether you’re looking for a lotion to use every day or a more intensive treatment for particularly dry patches, read on to discover the best body lotions for dry skin.

Using a body lotion is important to maintain healthy and hydrated skin. Dry skin can be uncomfortable, itchy, and even painful. Applying a body lotion regularly can help lock in moisture, prevent water loss, and soothe dryness.

Additionally, using a body lotion can improve the skin’s texture and appearance, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and nourished. With a variety of body lotions available for different skin types and concerns, it’s easy to find one that suits your needs and preferences.

By incorporating a body lotion into your skincare routine, you can promote overall skin health and maintain a radiant and youthful appearance.

When it comes to choosing a body lotion for dry skin, it’s important to consider the different types available. There are several options on the market, each with unique ingredients and benefits.

• Creams: These are the thickest and most moisturizing of all body lotions. They are rich in emollients and are ideal for severely dry skin.
• Lotions: These are lighter than creams and are perfect for everyday use. They contain a high water content, making them easy to apply and quick to absorb.
• Ointments: These are the most concentrated and heavy-duty of all body lotions. They are typically used to treat very dry and irritated skin.
• Serums: These are lightweight and contain a high concentration of active ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin. They are ideal for treating specific areas of dry skin, such as elbows and knees.
• Oil-based lotions: These lotions contain natural oils that deeply hydrate the skin. They are ideal for those with extremely dry skin, as they provide long-lasting moisture.

It’s important to choose a body lotion based on your skin type and needs. If you have severely dry skin, a cream or ointment may be the best choice. For everyday use, a lotion or oil-based lotion may be more suitable. And if you need targeted treatment for specific areas, a serum may be the way to go.

When choosing a body lotion for dry skin, it is important to consider your skin type and any specific skin concerns you may have. If you have sensitive skin, look for lotions that are fragrance-free and formulated without harsh chemicals. For those with eczema or psoriasis, opt for lotions that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera or colloidal oatmeal.

Certain ingredients can be particularly beneficial for dry skin. Look for lotions that contain hyaluronic acid, which helps to retain moisture in the skin, and ceramides, which help to repair the skin barrier. Shea butter is also a great ingredient to look for, as it provides intense hydration to dry, cracked skin.

Body lotions come in a variety of textures and consistencies, from thick and creamy to light and fast-absorbing. Those with very dry skin may prefer a thicker, creamier formula that provides more intense hydration. However, if you don’t like the feeling of heavy lotions on your skin, opt for a lighter, fast-absorbing formula.

Finally, consider your fragrance preferences when choosing a body lotion. Some people prefer lotions that are fragrance-free, while others enjoy the added scent of essential oils or other fragrances. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, it may be best to stick with fragrance-free options.

When it comes to choosing the best body lotion for dry skin, it can be overwhelming to sift through the countless options available on the market.

To make things easier for you, we have compiled a list of the top 20 body lotions that have been proven effective in providing relief for dry skin.

This body lotion is a beloved product that can provide your skin with the nourishment it needs on a daily basis. Former Byrdie Editorial Director Faith Xue is a fan of this cream’s clean formula and abundance of beneficial ingredients, including Vitamin B3 for moisturization and surface support, and vitamins A, C, and E, along with omegas 6 and 9, for antioxidant nourishment. Its rich combination of marula, cacay, and meadowfoam oils deeply moisturize the skin while quickly absorbing, allowing you to continue with your day without any wait time.

The formulation is both fragrance-free and pH-balanced, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Additionally, it is non-irritating and non-sensitizing, ensuring gentle care for your skin. Moreover, this body lotion is vegan and comes in eco-friendly, recyclable packaging.

Price at time of publish: $28

Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamins A, C, and E | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.8 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No

CeraVe’s Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a trusted and highly rated classic that is an affordable option for calming and treating dry skin. This body lotion is infused with three vital ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which work together to reestablish the skin’s protective barrier and maintain its natural moisture levels.

The formula of this product ensures the skin stays hydrated for a full day. It is free from fragrance and oil, making it suitable for those with extra dry or cracked skin that may be prone to reactions. It is also hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating. What’s more, it can be used on both the face and body.

Price at time of publish: $15

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides | Skin Type: All | Size: 8 / 12 / 16 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: No

This popular drugstore option is a reliable pick for those with dry skin, thanks to its rich emollients and colloidal oatmeal that help to replenish moisture and fortify the skin’s delicate barrier, resulting in softer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin. Additionally, it offers 24-hour hydration without leaving a greasy residue and is free of fragrances. An added bonus is that it also includes SPF 15 to protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. At such an affordable price point, there’s no need to feel guilty about using it daily.

Price at time of publish: $23

Active Ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 5% octisalate, 1.7% octocrylene, 3% oxybenzone | Skin Type: All | Size: 12 fl. oz | SPF: 15 | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: No

Supergoop!’s Body Butter SPF 40 is a game-changer for those in search of a nourishing sunscreen that doesn’t compromise on hydration. This formula combines a rich body butter with SPF 40 sunscreen, offering deeper hydration while providing protection against UVA and UVB rays. It’s infused with sea buckthorn fruit extract, meadowfoam seed oil, and argan oil that deliver vitamins and fatty acids to keep skin supple, smooth, and even-toned, without feeling greasy. Additionally, this clean formula is free of fragrance, vegan, and cruelty-free, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

Price at time of publish: $38

Active Ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 5% octisalate, 10% octocrylene | Skin Type: All | Size: 5.7 fl. oz | SPF: 40 | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Drunk Elephant’s Sili Body Lotion is the ultimate solution for everyday moisturizing needs and what’s more, it is vegan, cruelty-free, and clean by Byrdie’s standards. This multi-tasking lotion boasts a powerful blend of five ceramides that fortify the skin’s barrier, preventing moisture loss. Marula and shea butter, squalane, and amino acids work together to nourish, strengthen, and protect the skin. Additionally, it features a blend of antioxidants derived from fruits that effectively shield against free-radical damage. With a skin-friendly pH level of 4.2, this lotion is gentle on the skin and provides long-lasting hydration to keep dryness at bay.

This lotion is free of sulfates, silicones, irritating fragrance, essential oils, dyes, and drying alcohols, along with numerous other harmful ingredients that are commonly found in body care products.

Price at time of publish: $20

Active Ingredients: Marula butter, ceramides | Skin Type: All | Size: 8 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

While it may come with a higher price tag, this deluxe body cream is definitely worth the investment. As one of the top picks by Xue, this technologically advanced formula not only alleviates dry skin concerns but also rejuvenates your entire body. The cream utilizes stem cell research and the brand’s Trigger Factor Complex, a powerful combination of amino acids, vitamins, and synthesized molecules, to boost the skin’s natural repair and renewal process. Additionally, it includes Brazilian candela oil, a natural anti-inflammatory, along with deeply moisturizing shea butter and vitamins A and E.

The outcome? The skin appears and feels noticeably smoother immediately, and gradually, it becomes visibly firmer with a decrease in sun damage, stretch marks, and even cellulite.

Price at time of publish: $181

Active Ingredients: TFC8, shea butter | Skin Type: Dry, mature | Size: 6.7 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you dislike lotions that leave a sticky or greasy residue, Glossier’s Body Hero Daily Perfecting Cream might be the perfect choice for you. This cream, also a favorite of Gould, has a lightweight and non-greasy formula that features a blend of antioxidant-rich extracts, such as cactus flower, prickly pear, and yucca. These ingredients work together to provide all-day hydration to dry skin without leaving any residue.

Although this body cream is suitable for use all over, we adore it most for our legs. It absorbs fast into the skin, making it an excellent choice for rushed mornings when you need to wear jeans. Additionally, we adore the formula’s small light-reflecting particles, which impart the most beautiful shimmery glow that is understated enough for daily use, resulting in even, radiant legs. Note that this one has a faint orange blossom neroli scent, so keep in mind that it may cause irritation to sensitive skin.

Price at time of publish: $22

Active Ingredients: Cactus flower and prickly pear extracts | Skin Type: Balanced | Size: 8.4 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Although this body cream is suitable for use all over, we adore it most for our legs. It absorbs fast into the skin, making it an excellent choice for rushed mornings when you need to wear jeans. Additionally, we adore the formula’s small light-reflecting particles, which impart the most beautiful shimmery glow that is understated enough for daily use, resulting in even, radiant legs. Note that this one has a faint orange blossom neroli scent, so keep in mind that it may cause irritation to sensitive skin.

Price at time of publish: $16

Active Ingredients: 12% lactic acid | Skin Type: Dry | Size: 7.9 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Given the increased hand-washing and sanitizing these days, many of us suffer from rough, dry hands. To prevent things from getting worse in the winter, we recommend treating your hands to Burt’s Bees’ rich hand cream. With skin-loving ingredients like baobab oil, green tea extract, watermelon seed oil, and pumpkin oil, it deeply moisturizes and gently exfoliates parched hands. The non-greasy, unscented formula ensures that it soothes and never irritates cracked or broken knuckles.

Price at time of publish: $13

Active Ingredients: Baobab oil, green tea extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 3.2 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Your behind deserves some TLC too. This opulent body cream not only nourishes and softens your derriere but also incorporates a blend of powerful Brazilian ingredients to help even out texture and improve elasticity. The formula contains guaraná, which is rich in caffeine and helps smooth the skin, while cupuaçu butter’s fatty acids, phytosterols, and polyphenols help retain moisture and enhance elasticity. The açaí component helps maintain a youthful appearance, and coconut oil intensely hydrates and soothes. Plus, the cream’s spicy tropical scent will make you feel like you’re on a luxurious island vacation.

Price at time of publish: $46

Active Ingredients: Caffeine, cupuacu butter | Skin Type: All | Size: 2.5 / 8 / 17 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Dr. Barbara Sturm’s body cream is a true gem for many reasons. It provides deep hydration and nourishment, yet it never feels heavy or sticky due to the presence of glacial water in its formulation. Despite its rich and luxurious texture, the cream absorbs quickly, leaving the skin velvety-smooth and supple.

However, what captured our attention are the potent anti-aging advantages of this cream. With white almond and elderberry blossom extracts infused, this cream’s effectiveness is remarkable as it tightens the skin, while its oils rich in nutrients and highly active compounds restore skin elasticity. Dr. Sturm’s product contains Purslane extract, a powerful anti-aging ingredient derived from plants, which has been shown by the brand to reverse signs of aging in the skin. Additionally, the formula is both clean and cruelty-free.

Price at time of publish: $240

Active Ingredients: Purslane extract, shea butter | Skin Type: Dry, mature | Size: 7 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you have sensitive skin, it can be difficult to find a lotion that doesn’t cause irritation. However, Vanicream is an excellent choice. This simple yet effective body cream is free of fragrances, dyes, lanolin, botanical extracts, and parabens. It’s also non-comedogenic, making it a great option for those with finicky, easily irritated skin. The non-greasy and long-lasting formula spreads smoothly over the body and instantly soothes red, itchy, and cracked skin. Furthermore, its affordable price point makes it an excellent value.

Price at time of publish: $17

Active Ingredients: Petrolatum | Skin Type: Dry | Size: 16 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: No

If your skin is very dry and in need of some extra care, Eucerin’s Advanced Repair Cream is the solution. It provides instant relief and locks in moisture for up to 48 hours, addressing flaky, cracked skin and uncomfortable rough patches. Natural moisturizers and ceramides soothe dry spots on the hands and body, while alpha hydroxy acid exfoliators gently remove flakes and roughness. Plus, the formula is free of skin-irritating ingredients such as fragrance, dyes, and parabens, making it suitable for all skin types, including those who are extra sensitive.

Price at time of publish: $12

Active Ingredients: Urea, ceramides | Skin Type: Dry | Size: 16 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: No

Managing eczema can be challenging, but there are powerful creams available on the market that offer soothing relief. Skinfix’s Eczema+ Extra Strength Body Cream is an excellent option that has been highly recommended by Byrdie senior editor Hallie Gould. This cream is enriched with 2% colloidal oatmeal, which helps protect and alleviate skin irritation and itching due to eczema, rashes, and dermatitis. In addition, 4% almond oil nourishes dry skin and reduces itching. This clean formula has been tested and recommended by dermatologists for those with eczema-prone skin, making it a reliable choice for those in need of effective relief.

Price at time of publish: $38

Active Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, sweet almond oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 8 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Kayo’s Body Beautiful Creme provides you with soft and renewed skin by nourishing and pampering it. With a luxurious formula of goji, acai, noni, pomegranate, green tea, macadamia nut, kukui nut, and coconut oil, it’s enriched with essential antioxidants like CoQ10 and hyaluronic acid to combat oxidative stress and retain moisture for plumper-looking skin.

This moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, especially those that tend to be dry. However, its remarkable ability to renew and plump the skin makes it an exceptional choice for mature skin. It effectively reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, crepey skin, and loss of firmness.

Price at time of publish: $42

Active Ingredients: Macadamia oil, kukui nut oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 6 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This luxurious body cream from African Botanics have deeply hydrating and skin-revitalizing qualities. The brand uses wild-growing African Fynbos flora and nutrient-rich South African plants to nourish the skin, while peptides and antioxidants support skin health. Additionally, caffeine and brown seaweed extract boost collagen production and protect from environmental stressors, while vitamin C reduces dark spots and evens skin tone. And, let’s not forget about the amazing scent!

The natural fragrance of this product is reminiscent of a blooming wild garden, owing to the organic and wildcrafted plants in its composition. The scent is a heavenly blend of wild cape may, rose, jasmine, and ravensara, enhanced by the gentle notes of lime and vetiver, which create an exotic and floral aroma that is never overpowering.

Price at time of publish: $130

Active Ingredients: Rose flower oil, squalane | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.8 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Similar to facial serums, body serums can also be beneficial for your skin. The hydrating Body Prophet serum from Free + True, a personal favorite of Gould, is packed with antioxidants such as olive leaf extract, sea buckthorn berry, and pumpkin seed oil that heal, firm, and regenerate the skin. It also contains aloe vera juice and comfrey extract that soothe, calm, and hydrate the skin. The serum has a refreshing summery scent due to a blend of essential oils, but it may cause irritation to sensitive skin types. Plus, it’s so moisturizing that an additional layer of lotion is not necessary.

Price at time of publish: $48

Active Ingredients: Olive leaf extract, sea buckthorn berry | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.8 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Indulge in the lavish Renewal Body Oil Balm from La Mer that transforms from a balm into a silky oil upon skin contact. This luxurious moisturizer is infused with the brand’s signature Miracle Broth, a blend of sea kelp, vitamins, minerals, citrus oil, eucalyptus, sunflower, wheat germ, and alfalfa, which is the star ingredient in all of the brand’s beloved products. Though it may come with a higher price tag, the results are worth it.

The blend of potent ingredients, combined with other enriching oils, revitalizes skin cells, providing relief from dryness, redness, and irritation. The result is visibly brighter, firmer, and healthier-looking skin, and let’s be honest, it adds a touch of luxury to your skincare routine.

Price at time of publish: $20

Active Ingredients: Sea kelp, meadowfoam seed oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.7 fl. oz | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-Free: No

This lightweight formula from Fresh is designed to provide a gentle and non-greasy sensation on the skin. It incorporates plant-based milks that are known to soothe and calm the skin. Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are also included to strengthen the skin barrier and provide moisturization.

The scent of this product is pleasantly lightweight and not overpowering, making it suitable even for those with sensitive skin. While we appreciate its fragrance, it’s worth noting that the moisturizing effect may require reapplication during the day to adequately hydrate dry skin.

Price at time of publish: $42

Active Ingredients: Plant-based milks, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid | Skin Type: All | Size: 8.7 oz. | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The scent of this product is pleasantly lightweight and not overpowering, making it suitable even for those with sensitive skin. While we appreciate its fragrance, it’s worth noting that the moisturizing effect may require reapplication during the day to adequately hydrate dry skin.

While we acknowledge the numerous skin benefits this product offers, those who prefer a lighter body cream may not find this option suitable. The texture of the formula is thick, which may require a longer absorption time compared to other products.

Price at time of publish: $20

Active Ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide | Skin Type: Mature | Size: 6.76 oz. | SPF: None | Byrdie Clean: Yes | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Dr. Kim Nichols MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of NicholsMD of Greenwich, advises that when searching for an excellent body lotion, you should seek out active hydrating ingredients. “Humectants such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin are essential ingredients to consider,” she explains.

With daily use, your skin’s moisture and hydration levels can be increased twofold over time. Dr. Nichols explains that “these ingredients offer up to 48 hours of moisture and quickly alleviate dry skin after application.” With regular use, it can even aid in skin repair and enhance moisture retention.

When buying a body lotion, packaging is also a crucial consideration. Bottles with a pump or squeeze bottles are easier to use and dispense product from, while large tubs with a twist-off are more challenging to use. As a result, you may be less inclined to apply body lotion to your skin regularly.

Dr. Nichols emphasizes the significance of moisturizing the body regularly. “Many individuals only address their skin concerns when they arise, but maintaining consistency is crucial for overall skin health,” she states. “Incorporating a body lotion with such components into your daily routine is essential.”

When searching for effective active ingredients in body lotions for dry skin, it’s important to consider hyaluronic acid. The American Academy of Dermatology Association highlights that hyaluronic acid is capable of absorbing 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an effective option for both the face and body.

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