Several people think of applying lotion as the duty-bound, slightly unpleasant step in their bedtime or morning routine—if they incorporate it at all.
The overabundance of mediocre moisturizers could be the culprit: Perhaps it’s a cheap, watery formula that imparts only a suggestion of hydration, or a heavily perfumed, overpriced cream that has underwhelmed you before.
But as dermatologists advise, everyone should use a body moisturizer every day to maintain optimal skin health. That’s why, after interviewing four dermatologists, and tested 25 lotions from an initial list of almost 100, eight were found that suit a variety of skin types and preferences.
None of our picks will induce any post-shower shudders. These are the lotions and creams that make a healthy habit feel more like a self-care ritual. They include a rich, versatile cream, a light and delightfully scented option, a thick and healing formula, a simple well-packaged lotion, a fancy refillable cream, an elegant, excellent splurge, an overperforming basic with elevated scents, and a cooling, innovative gel.
Thick and versatile staple: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
This is a Dermatologist’s favorite. CeraVe was founded in 2005 to help people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis and is known for its fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers. Panelists appreciated the simple, versatile formula and non-greasy after feel of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, and it’s especially appealing since the no-nonsense cream is suitable for use on the face, too.
Its formula feels more luxurious than its price suggests. We found the cream to be much fancier-feeling than its midrange price.
It absorbs quickly without feeling sticky. Aside from glycerin—a humectant that draws water into the skin barrier—occlusive ingredients petrolatum and dimethicone help keep water from evaporating from the skin over time. Testers appreciated that the cream absorbed well and didn’t leave a greasy layer on their skin.
“The texture is nice and sinks in quickly, but not so fast that you can’t get a good spread,” wrote one. Another panelist noted that the cream took longer to sink in than she expected, but its non-sticky texture made the absorption rate less of an issue for her than with other moisturizers she tested.
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You can use it on both your body and face. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is also a pick in facial moisturizer guide, and testers for both guides appreciated it as a one-jar option for après-shower hydration.
Flaws but not deal breakers
Several panelists noted the unsanitary aspect of having to scoop out the cream with their hands. The cream is sold in a pump container, too, but that version might be a little harder to find.
One tester noted that having a large logo emblazoned tub sitting on her bathroom counter wasn’t the most visually appealing scene. However, she appreciated that the label peeled off easily, leaving a less affronting plain white tub.
Light hydrating lotion that smells amazing: Hempz Triple Moisture Herbal Whipped Body Crème
With its cannabis-leaf logo and roster of candy-colored, highly fragranced lotions, Hempz might not be for everyone. But after a call for moisturizer favorites in the office unearthed several fervent fans of Hempz Triple Moisture Herbal Whipped Body Crème (known as the blue formula) specifically, we knew we needed to test it.
The brand’s name comes from the hempseed oil included in its lotions; Triple Moisture also contains other natural oils, such as yangu, sweet almond, sunflower seed, and jojoba seed.
It spreads like a lotion but hydrates like a cream. Although the lotion’s fragrance was polarizing (more on that below), most testers were wowed by its creamy, easily spreadable texture.
The hempseed oil is accompanied by dimethicone (a non-greasy silicone), glycerin (a humectant), and a skin-softening coconut-oil derivative.
“Love this one—spreads super easily but covers, unlike other thinner lotions,” one tester noted. Another panelist noted that it absorbed quickly and left her skin feeling very soft. If you’re looking for a hydrating moisturizer that’s thinner than a cream, this is a good option.
The scent is strong and long-lasting. Hempz lotions are known for their scents—think walking into a Bath & Body Works, and you’ll understand the vibes.
If you’re fond of the fragrance, you’ll be happy to know that our testers found it seriously durable; one even described it as “100 percent too long-lasting.”
Its pump works smoothly. Throughout the evaluation period, testers developed strong views on pump-to-viscosity performance, as
sometimes a formula would be too thick for its pump’s tiny hole to manage well. When you’re attempting to maintain a daily habit, even something that seemingly minor can keep you from moisturizing as often as you should. Hempz’s lighter formula and well-functioning pump were a perfect match.
Testers appreciated that the formula flowed easily through the pump’s mechanisms without clogging or requiring manual labor. “Other ones feel like you’re working ye olde pump trolley on a railroad,” one tester explained.
Flaws but not deal breakers
This formula contains two ingredients, fragrance and dyes, that dermatologists recommend avoiding if you have sensitive skin or are wary of possible irritants. One of our testers found the Hempz lotion’s blue color—a combination of Blue No. 1 and D&C Violet No. 2 dyes—to be off-putting.
All panelists noted that while the pump mechanism worked smoothly and practically, the overall packaging left much to be desired. One tester said that both the design and packaging made Hempz seem cheaper than other drugstore options, such as Native or Neutrogena.
Vanicream
For cracked, irritated, or sensitive skin, you can’t do better than Vanicream Moisturizing Cream, in which the second ingredient is the heavy-duty occlusive, petrolatum.
Testers loved the luxurious feel and extra-moisturizing benefits of this cream, and although the packaging isn’t fancy, the price is right.
For a thick barrier cream, it soaks in readily. Vanicream Moisturizing Cream is much thicker than a lotion.
Testers found that the formula took a while to sink in, but they didn’t mind that because of its extra-hydrating benefits. As one tester noted, “The formula’s point is to seal in moisture, and it does that very well.” Another tester appreciated that the formula soaked in well and plumped up skin without feeling overly sticky after absorption.
It’s ideal for sensitive skin. Because Vanicream formulates its products without common irritants, this cream is a no-brainer if you or anyone in your household is concerned about skin sensitivities or has a condition such as eczema or psoriasis.
In fact, the ingredient panel, at just 11 ingredients, was one of the shortest among the lotions tested. The formula was also awarded a Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association.
It smoothes rough skin nicely. The formula is safe for all parts of your body, so you can use it on your face, too (and the pump top makes things a little more sanitary than other tub options, like the version of the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream we tested). It’s also a nice option to target dried extremities—one panelist found herself reaching for it as an evening hand cream since it had the staying power to hang on while she slept.
Another noticed that it almost immediately softened the appearance of craggy, callous skin along her ankles.
Flaws but not deal breakers
Although this Vanicream formula is fragrance-free, it still imparts an almost imperceptible medicinal scent that not everyone appreciates.
One long-term tester noted that the pump top, which extends from the middle of the tub’s screw cap, tends to stop working about halfway through use. Although that is annoying, you can still unscrew the cap to scoop out the remaining cream.
Cute, vibey, and effective: Byoma Sensitive Skin Body Lotion
Many of the unscented lotions we tested come in nondescript, utilitarian packaging. Sensitive Skin Body Lotion from TikTok-famous brand Byoma is different—although it’s more cutesy than sophisticated, the bright pink bottle was a favorite among testers, who also loved the lotion’s silky-smooth formulation.
Its main ingredients include the emollients ethylhexyl palmitate and shea butter plus the humectant glycerin, as well as natural occlusive oils.
It has a squiggly, lightweight formula. One tester raved about how easily this lotion rubbed into her skin. “I was shocked at how soft my body felt the next morning,” she added. Another noted how the lotion’s pump dispensed satisfying “ASMR-ish” noodles of product. “Unlike some of the others, this one seemed to truly soak right in and moisturize without leaving a sticky need-to-dry hang time or a kind of shrink-wrap layer.”
The bottle has a vibe. One tester likened the lotion’s formula to tried-and-true drugstore mainstays like Eucerin or Aveeno and other reliable moisturizers, saying, “It’s just that the packaging makes it that much more appealing.”
Another tester was at first skeptical about the seemingly wasted packaging of the large, square pump top, but its utility eventually grew on her. “I was surprised at how well this thick cream came out of the pump without getting stuck,” she said.
It doesn’t irritate sensitive skin. Some lotions for sensitive skin are so devoid of bells and whistles that they feel rather grim. With 28 ingredients and no added scent, Byoma’s formula has plenty of well-tolerated hydrating staples, including glycerin, shea butter, and squalane. But it also has some plant-based soothers, such as calendula and oat kernel extract. One panelist’s daughter has mild eczema and a distaste for cold, slippery lotion; something about the look and feel of the Byoma lotion encouraged her to develop a nightly ritual, and it helped the dry patches recede.
This lotion is also accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Flaws but not deal breakers
The pump top is difficult to open. One tester had to resort to using a pot holder and some elbow grease to unscrew it. It’s an added challenge if you like to eke out as much lotion as possible before tossing empties.
The fragrance-free formula still carries a subtle scent. One tester noted that the lotion had a slight fragrance with a somewhat plasticky backnote that was neither pleasant nor offensive, while another strongly disliked it.
Luxe, rich, splurgy: Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter
Model and businessperson Josie Maran’s eponymous cosmetics brand has been synonymous with the “clean beauty” movement since its launch in 2007. Central to Josie Maran products is its use of argan oil, and the Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter also contains various other oils and shea butter. Almost all of our testers, even those wary of “luxe” lotions, loved the experience of both the rich, spreadable cream and the fancy refillable glass vessel.
It feels like a treat. At $6 an ounce, this body butter’s price was much higher than the $2.26-per-ounce average of the moisturizers we tested. It is a splurge, but it feels every bit of a luxury. The butter formulation is rich and creamy; as one tester put it, “it feels like it might be actually worth the price.” Other testers appreciated that the firm-looking butter felt much more pliable—and, yes, whipped—in hand, and they noted that the formula was “thick but spreadable.”
It leaves a subtle shimmer. Save this one for summer—testers liked that the body butter left behind a slight sheen once it was absorbed. (To be clear, it doesn’t contain mica or any other light-reflecting particles.) One tester said it made her want to shave her legs to show off her glossy, “knife-like shins.” But some said it took too long to absorb, a full 45 minutes. You might take a pause after lathering up and before slipping into a silky garment.
The refillable glass container is a nice touch. The full-size version of the body butter comes in a hefty, large glass tub; you can purchase double-size refill packs afterward. One tester noted that they liked the glass container so much, they were planning on repurposing it. You can also recycle everything but the inner liner (that is, the glass container and the plastic cap) through normal residential-recycling programs.
You can dial in your scent. Our testers evaluated the body butter in the unscented option Always Nude, which one tester noted as smelling slightly like essential oils (it does not contain added fragrance). The Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter also comes in seven other scents, ranging from musky to sweet to citrusy and heady.
Flaws but not deal breakers
The glass container is rather large, which can make it slippery to hold if your hands are moisturized.
Like other tub moisturizers we tested, this one made some of our more germ-averse testers wary of sharing, since you need to dip your hands into the tub.
Spa-like aesthetic and an excellent formula: Nécessaire The Body Lotion
Nécessaire’s deodorants, lotions, and body cleansers cater to people who value sustainability (it’s a certified B Corp) and simplicity (check out the minimalist packaging design). The ingredient list of Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion includes several humectants, emollients, and seed oils, all of which meld into a highly absorbable and hydrating formulation.
It soaks in quickly. Testers were amazed at how quickly this formula absorbed into their skin. “Truly seemed to soak right in easily. Not an excessive amount of rubbing,” one tester said. “I don’t know how it soaks in so fast but still feels moisturizing,” another wrote.
It’s delightfully spreadable. In addition to its great absorption rate, Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion has a pleasing, easily spreadable texture. “Feels like heaven,” one tester said. Another described it as a “nice, rich” lotion that locked moisture in place quickly. Yet another tester raved about the formula’s smooth feel. “It’s the perfect texture for me.”
It elevates your bathroom. Every one of our testers mentioned the chic, minimalist-design tube as a selling point. “Wouldn’t be surprised to see this tube in an upscale spa,” one said. Another tester said this lotion looked so nice on display that she granted it some coveted countertop space by her sink. As another tester wrote, this one gets “major vibe points.” If the formula weren’t so good on its own, a person might consider decanting a cheaper formula into the pleasing bottle once it ran out.
It’s fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin. Nécessaire adheres to the European Union’s regulations for cosmetic ingredients, which impose stricter ingredient bans than the United States. In addition, the fragrance-free version of The Body Lotion is accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Flaws but not deal breakers
Marketing copy on the back of the tube touts the inclusion of peptides and 2.5% niacinamide and describes it as a firming lotion. Research on the efficacy of peptides in body care is limited; in addition, the packaging doesn’t note the concentration of the peptides.
Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion comes in a relatively small size for daily use. Although at about $4.40 an ounce (for the 6.8-ounce tube), it’s cheaper than our luxe pick from Josie Maran, it might require frequent refills at $30 a pop. The company also sells a 15.2-ounce pump container that works out to be slightly cheaper per ounce, but it’s less sleekly designed.
Everyday, good value: Native Moisturizing Lotion
For a habit-forming, accessible lotion that’s slightly more elevated than its run-of-the-mill drugstore counterparts, we suggest Native Moisturizing Lotion. It comes in several scents, including limited-edition fragrances, and doesn’t break the bank. The formula is a mix of humectants and emollients as well as shea butter, which can sometimes go on heavy, though not so here. It’s widely available, and it’s affordable enough for generous daily use.
It’s a lightweight formula. One of our panelists found the sensory experience of most body creams and lotions off-putting. But the lightweight Native option, which soaks in almost on impact, was just the ticket. (Testers with drier skin found this lotion to be slightly too light and watery for all-day moisturization.) Another noted that it was a general crowd-pleaser: “I can see this being an all-family option,” she said.
The scent is subtle but long-lasting. Whereas some scented lotions we tried had overpowering scents, Native’s was much more subtle. The lotion imparts a noticeable scent that doesn’t overwhelm. Testers appreciated its fragrance profile, with one even noting that it “helped with compliance” since she liked the scent so much. Another praised its lasting effects after she donned a sweater she had worn during testing a few days earlier and still noticed the scent. “It’s nice, not cloying,” she added. Our testers’ favorite scents included Eucalyptus & Mint, which one panelist’s partner especially appreciated, and Sea Salt & Cedar.
It has a pump, which testers preferred. On the whole, our testers were more comfortable using lotions or creams that they could dispense without possibly introducing germs into the remaining product; however, some of the pump mechanisms we tested broke or were terribly difficult to use. Native’s pump worked without issue for most testers, and they appreciated its quick-swivel lock function.
Flaws but not deal breakers
Testers with drier skin found Native’s lotion to be too watery and said that its moisturizing effects dissipated relatively quickly. If you count yourself in that category, you might want to try one of our creamier picks.
One of our testers had a problem with the pump on the bottle she tested, as it took a long time to dispense the lotion. No other testers noted this issue.
This lotion comes in several scents but has no fragrance-free version.
Unique and cooling gel: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream
Neutrogena’s tried-and-true Hydro Boost line has been quenching dry skin for over a decade, but you might be more familiar with its face creams and lotions than its Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream. (In fact, we recommend a Hydro Boost gel cream in our facial moisturizers guide.) The body lotion impressed many of our testers with its juicy, refreshing formula; its key ingredient is hyaluronic acid, which acts as a humectant to draw moisture into the outer skin layer.
Even though it’s wet at first, it dries quickly. All of our testers noted this formula’s unique texture—it truly feels like a mix between a gel and a cream. Panelists appreciated that it absorbed easily and dried quickly, although one tester said that it left a subtle film on the skin.
It offers lightweight, refreshing hydration. One tester is a longtime fan of this lotion for its smooth application and absorption and uses it throughout the year except during extremely dry, cold winters. This easy-to-use formula is the one she reaches for above all others, especially when applying heavier lotions feels like a chore. Another tester appreciated its perceived plumping effects, and added, “It felt so satiny going on, like, glided right over my skin.”
It’s good to the last drop. Because of the lotion’s light viscosity, it glides out of the pump nicely and slides out of the bottle easily. Waste-averse testers easily got almost every drop of it out after unscrewing the pump top.
Flaws but not deal breakers
One of our testers found the formula to be too sticky and said it felt like it sat on their skin a bit.
Testers (and online reviewers) stress opting for the unscented option rather than the fragranced version, which many people say has an unpleasant smell.
This lotion contains the dye Blue No. 1, which people with sensitive skin may choose to avoid.
