What is the right way to use body lotions?

Are you one of those who use body lotion only when your skin feels taut, itchy, and dry? If yes, you might be neglecting body care big time.  

Caring for your skin isn’t just about taking care of your face. 

Just like your facial skin, the skin on the rest of your body is also exposed to external aggressors like pollution, sun, and even harsh chemicals, and requires equal care! 

It's essential to deeply moisturize and protect the skin on your body to maintain its health & prevent skin damage. 

Body lotions are an effective way to deliver moisturization, nourishment, and protection, helping keep your skin smooth, resilient, and healthy.

In this blog, we will discuss the ‘underdog’ of the body on the skin- the body lotion, the benefits of lotion, and how to use lotion correctly.

What is body lotion?

Like a face moisturizer that caters to the needs of your delicate facial skin, a body lotion protects, repairs, and nourishes the skin on your body.

Here are the key benefits and uses of a body lotion:

1. Strengthens your skin barrier by boosting collagen production

2. Hydrates your skin and promotes moisture retention in your skin cells to prevent dryness

3. Helps minimize signs of aging and stretch marks

4. Hydrates calluses like dry elbows and knees. 

5. Gives your skin a natural glow. 

Moreover, many formulations are also infused with UV filters to double up as sun protection, while nourishing your skin.

Best ingredients to look for in a body lotion

1. Vitamin E:

Vitamin E is extremely hydrating and is also known to boost skin regeneration and cell turnover. Being an antioxidant, it fights oxidation stress while reducing your skin’s reactivity. 

2. Shea butter: 

An intensely moisturizing ingredient commonly used in a body lotion, shea butter is anti-inflammatory and hypo-allergenic and tackles skin sensitivity without compromising on hydration. 

3. Ceramides:

They are the lipids that form the skin’s barrier. Formulas infused with ceramides ensure intense hydration and reduce signs of aging. 

4. Aloe vera: 

Anti-inflammatory in nature, aloe vera is also a common ingredient in body lotions. Ideal for summer body lotions, an aloe vera-based body lotion provides instant cooling and freshness, in addition to soft, plump skin.

Choosing the right body lotion

Just like the rest of your skincare products, you must choose a body lotion based on your skin type.

For dry skin:

Opt for a hydrating formula that ensures intense moisturization. 

Especially, in winter, opt for richer, creamier formulas infused with shea butter, cocoa butter, or vitamin E to give your skin that extra boost of hydration. 

For oily and combination skin:

Opt for lightweight formulas with active ingredients like aloe vera that soothe your skin and promote intense hydration. 

How to use body lotion?

To ensure that your body gets the maximum benefits of your body lotion, you must use it right. Here is how you should use body lotion. 

1.  Always opt for a formula based on your skin type. 

If the formula isn’t suitable for your skin type, a body lotion can do more harm than good, by irritating and sensitizing your skin. Thus always do a patch test before, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

2. Always apply after a shower, on damp skin.

Clean, damp skin ensures better absorption. Here’s how to apply your body lotion correctly:

• After a shower, gently dab your skin with a soft towel.

• Rub a generous amount of body lotion between your palms to lightly warm it up.

• Now, apply all over your body, gently massaging it, into your skin. Focus more on dry regions of your skin like knees and elbows. 

3. Use multiple times in a day, to keep your skin hydrated, especially during winter.

Common mistakes to avoid while using a body lotion:

1. Not using everyday

Your body lotion is an everyday-use product. Thus, be consistent in use and apply multiple times in the day, depending on your skin needs.

2. Skipping sunscreen

The skin on the rest of your body is exposed to the harmful rays of the sun, just like your face. 

Without a sunblock, the harmful UV rays will cause sun damage to your skin. Opting for a body lotion with SPF for your exposed areas will help ensure sun protection in addition to nourishment and hydration.

3. Overuse

Body lotions, like all skincare products, can clog your pores if used excessively, leading to excess oil production or product residue buildup. So always use a small amount— a little bit goes a long way in keeping your skin hydrated and healthy without overwhelming it!

4. Not checking ingredients in the formula

If your skin is sensitive, it is best to research the ingredients properly and then choose a body lotion. Since sensitive skin is more reactive than the other skin types, opt for non-comedogenic, vegan, and gentle formulae that do not irritate your skin.  

5. Using scented body lotion in sensitive areas of your body

To ensure the safest application, avoid using scented body lotion on your face and private areas. 

Using the right body lotions is a simple hack to glowing, nourished skin. Start using the right body lotion today to get healthy, glowing, and plump skin!

FAQs:

Can I wear clothes after applying body lotion?

Yes, you can wear clothes after applying body lotion. You can wait a couple of minutes after applying your body lotion to allow it to absorb first if you like.

When should I apply lotion?

The best time to apply body lotion is right after a shower as your skin is damp and the pores are open, which allows better penetration. 

How to apply body lotion properly?

On damp skin, take a dollop of body lotion, rub it between your palms, and then evenly apply it all over your body. 

How often should I apply body lotion?

Apply 2-3 times in a day or more, if your body feels dry and dehydrated.