10 Best Body Lotions for 2023

No matter what your skin tone, we all struggle with dryness at some point. Whether you have hard water and just came out of the shower, frigid temperatures are sapping moisture, or you’re genetically predisposed to dryer skin, we’ve all been there. 

A good lotion should not only be able to hydrate temporarily but also ensure that your skin is properly moisturized and can retain hydration throughout the day. But as with anything else, the right lotion will depend on a number of factors, such as your budget, the climate you live in, and your specific skin concerns.

If you feel like it’s time to upgrade from your current lotion (or you just want to see what options are out there), check out our top picks for the best body lotions and discover tips on how to select the right one for you. 

Best body lotions overview

• Best overall: DERMA E Vitamin E Sensitive Skin Shea Body Lotion
• Best budget: Palmer’s Daily Skin Therapy
• Best for men: Jack Black Cool Moisture Body Lotion
• Best for severe dryness: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
• Best for whole-body toning: Nivea Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream
• Best multitasker: Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream
• Best scent: Medix 5.5 Hyaluronic + Bulgarian Rose Cream
• Best exfoliating: Gold Bond Rough & Bumpy Skin Daily Therapy Cream
• Best with SPF: SuperGoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 with Sunflower Extract
• Best radiant: Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

How we chose the best body lotions

To compile this list, we researched manufacturer specifications, including skin type compatibility, product size, scent, targeted goals, and more to create a short list of the top body lotions. Then, we combed through detailed product descriptions, ratings, and reviews to find the best body lotions for each category.

Our picks for the best body lotions

A good Best Overall body lotion shouldn’t have a heavy scent — if any at all. But it should also effectively provide moisture year-round for a broader range of skin types. DERMA E Vitamin E Fragrance-Free Sensitive Skin Shea Body Lotion is a great solution packed with moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. 

Whether you have dry, parched, sensitive, or normal skin, you won’t feel like the texture is too heavy. Shea butter aids in improving your skin’s natural moisture levels, while pycnogenol enhances your skin’s elasticity. Aloe and chamomile also work to soothe irritated skin and minimize any redness you may have. You’ll like that this vegan formula is scent-free, cruelty free, and doesn’t have a sticky feeling to it.

Skin type: All, especially sensitive skin | Size: 8 oz

It’s pretty hard to discuss lotions and not include Palmer’s in the conversation. The OG brand, best known for its signature solid cocoa butter balm, makes a wide range of other skin moisturizing products, including lotions and oils. If you like the idea of the brand’s classic cocoa butter balm but want something easier to work with and a tad less greasy, you’ll enjoy the Daily Skin Therapy lotion. 

Made to help soften rough and dry skin, the hero ingredients of cocoa butter and vitamin E help your skin retain moisture for up to 48 hours. This vegan-friendly formula is also dermatologist recommended and safe for use by people with eczema.

And, the easy pump dispenser makes application a breeze. However, this formula is meant to be lighter than the original solid formula, so you may find it less effective than expected if you have very dry skin.

Skin type: Normal | Size: 12 fl oz

There’s no rule stating that a man has to buy a lotion specifically marketed to him with dark colors and a more “masculine” scent. But if you’re a fan of that type of marketing directive, then Jack Black’s Cool Moisture Body Lotion is a great general moisturizer that offers plenty of hydration with a cooling twist. 

Moisture-rich ingredients like macadamia nut oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E work to moisturize and protect the skin. Further, vitamin E serves as an antioxidant to protect skin cells from free-radical damage.

The added soy protein creates a smoother texture, and the glycerin, an excellent humectant, helps ensure vital moisture isn’t lost from your skin once the lotion is applied. Finally, menthyl lactate, a less intense version of menthol, provides an invigorating cooling sensation.

Skin type: All | Size: 16 oz

If you’re someone with seriously dry skin or who struggles with some form of dermatitis such as eczema, then you already know that most lotions aren’t up to the challenge of moisturizing your skin. CeraVe is a brand that bears the National Eczema Association’s seal of approval, meaning it’s specifically designed to manage more severe skin concerns. You’ll get all-day hydration and a fast-absorbing formula to soothe parched skin. 

The brand’s Moisturizing Cream is a heavy-duty moisturizer intended to restore your skin’s moisture barrier by infusing three critical ceramides and hyaluronic acid. These key ingredients all work together to improve hydration and prevent moisture from being pulled from your skin. While this is a non-greasy cream, the fact that it’s designed with damaged and inflamed skin in mind means it’s best suited for dry and irritated skin types.

Skin type: Dry, irritated skin, especially those with dermatitis | Size: 16 oz

Who wouldn’t want to look a bit firmer and toned? Going to the gym will absolutely do that for you, but if you’re also looking for a topical solution, Nivea’s Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream is a great option to add to your daily moisturizing routine. Note, though, that this is a lightweight lotion. So, while it’s packed with ingredients that can improve the look and feel of your skin within two weeks of consistent use, it might not be as effective as a traditional moisturizer if your skin is on the drier side. 

This pick contains Q10, L-carnitine, and lotus extract that work to improve your skin’s firmness. Because it’s a gel-cream formula, it absorbs quickly into the skin and won’t leave a greasy texture behind. It’s specifically intended for your thighs, butt, and stomach, but you could also use it on your arms if you prefer.

Skin type: Normal | Size: 6.7 oz each (2-pack)

We know, with a name like Bum Bum Cream, you’re probably wondering why we’re awarding it Best Multitasker. But Sol de Janeiro’s cult favorite Brazilian Bum Bum Cream can do more than make your posterior look enviable. This rich cream is packed with natural ingredients sourced from Brazil for tightening, toning, smoothing, hydrating, and protecting your skin. 

The added Guaraná has five times the caffeine concentration as coffee and can improve circulation, which translates to smoother skin. Capuaçu butter and coconut oil add serious moisturizing and enhance your skin’s elasticity. Meanwhile, açaí and Brazil nut oils serve as protectors from harsh environmental stressors like pollution. And, while this product is marketed as a posterior cream, it’s perfectly safe to use anywhere on your body. However, we do admit it’s a splurge. 

Skin type: All | Size: 8 oz

We’re the first to admit that scents or fragrances are personal. So always consider reviews claiming excellent aromas with a grain of salt. That said, if you’re a fan of rose scents, we’ve got something that’ll bring tears to your eyes — in a good way. Medix 5.5 Hyaluronic + Bulgarian Rose Cream is a must-have product that not only smells like you’ve been transported to a spa day but also delivers the goods. 

The two key ingredients in this body lotion are hyaluronic acid and Bulgarian rose. Hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse active ingredient known for its ability to attract and retain moisture. Meanwhile, Bulgarian rose works like a natural toner for your skin to help control oiliness and tighten large pores. 

This formula is safe for all skin types, including those with sensitive or oily skin, and you’ll appreciate that the hydration lasts. You’ll also like that it has a pH of 5.5 (nearly matching your skin’s pH) and contains vitamin E, green tea, and even goji berry — all great for moisture retention.

Skin type: All | Size: 15 fl oz

Rough, dry, and textured skin aren’t just limited to your face. Even if you’re on top of your whole-body skincare, it doesn’t mean you won’t experience an occasional eczema flare, which can lead to excess texture. Gold Bond’s Rough & Bumpy Skin Daily Therapy Cream is a great solution when you need to banish unwanted bumps but still need to hydrate your skin.

This lotion contains a powerful combination of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), beta hydroxy acid (BHA), and polyhydroxy acid (PHA) ingredients to exfoliate your skin gently. Meanwhile, seven moisturizers and three vitamins ensure that your skin remains hydrated and conditioned. The brand promises that within just one hour of initial application, you’ll see an improvement in your skin’s appearance. 

This product can be used on your arms, legs, thighs, and buttocks. In focus groups, after four weeks of consistent use, all participants saw a 74% reduction in bumps. Additionally, 89% saw softer skin appear. As a bonus, this product is dermatologist-tested, non-greasy, and fragrance-free.

Skin type: All | Size: 8 oz

In truth, everyone should wear SPF all the time. But we’re not going to disagree with anyone who says they dislike how hard it is to make sunscreen emulsify fully into the skin — or that they dislike the scent. But if those complaints sound familiar, you’ll appreciate the SuperGoop! Play Everyday Lotion. It protects with SPF 50 and is designed with all skin types in mind. 

This lotion leverages a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you from UVA, UVB, and IRA rays. It’s also formulated to be water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes. This means you can rock this lotion before you head outside for a run or to take a walk on the beach. Along with being a clean beauty pick, this sunscreen is reef-safe.

If one of your main reasons for not wearing sunscreen is because you despise the ashen cast it leaves on your skin, you can rest easy. According to several reviews we screened, SuperGoop!’s sunscreen-infused lotion is melanin-approved.

Skin type: All | Size: 2.4 oz

Before you side-eye this inclusion, just remember that you don’t have to be fair-skinned to want a nice glow. Jergens’ Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer is ideal for creating a subtle “lit from within” radiance for your entire body without the need for messy self-tanners, spray tans, or baking in the sun. Available in both fair to medium and medium to deep hues, this moisturizer is a great way to subtly build color. 

It’s infused with vitamin E and antioxidants to moisturize and protect your skin, and it’s meant to be used every day. You’ll appreciate that there’s no odor (unlike most self-tanners), and since it’s a regular lotion, you don’t have to worry about a streaky finish.

Skin type: All | Size: 2 oz

Hydrated skin is healthy skin

Whether you have normal, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, there’s a lotion out there that can give you a healthy, radiant look while also keeping your skin properly moisturized. A good moisturizer should last more than an hour or two. It also needs to have a texture that doesn’t leave residue or stain your clothing. And, of course, you’ll want to decide if you prefer a product with fragrance or an unscented alternative.

We recommend starting with our Best Overall from DERMA E, the Vitamin E Fragrance-Free Sensitive Skin Shea Body Lotion. It’s unscented and offers a decent texture that maintains hydration for up to 48 hours while absorbing quickly into the skin. 

How to pick the right body lotion for you

Finding the right body lotion is just as much about picking the right formula as finding a scent that appeals to you. You’ll need to think about the ingredients, your skin type, current skin concerns, and of course, your budget. 

Ingredients

• Sun protection. Everyone needs protection from the sun. But not all lotions come standard with an SPF. Remember that for thorough protection, you must reapply every two hours. At a minimum, look for lotions that have at least SPF 35. 
• Antioxidants. If you want to protect your skin from environmental stressors like pollution, free radicals, and even sun exposure, formulas that leverage antioxidants are always a good idea. These can help to minimize or prevent such damage. 
• Humectants. Humectants, such as glycerin, are ideal for people with very dry skin. These ingredients aid in retaining moisture. So, if you’re looking for a lotion with staying power, humectants can be an ideal option. 
• Exfoliants. Whether you’re trying to boost your skin’s radiance or banish excessive texture, exfoliants will be essential. Common options include AHAs, BHAs, and even PHAs. If you’re concerned about irritation, opt for gentler BHA and PHA ingredients, like salicylic and lactobionic acid. 

Ingredients to avoid

• Dyes and perfumes. If you have sensitive skin or a known skin condition such as dermatitis, then you want to avoid dyes and perfumes — they contain harsh chemicals that can potentially irritate your skin further. Specifically, avoid products that list “perfume” or “fragrance” since this means that they’re scented with synthetic chemicals. If you must have a scented product, look for options that are naturally scented with essential oils or plant extracts. And always perform a patch test before applying a lotion all over your body. 
• Acids. Not all acids are harmful. Hyaluronic acid is an acid that’s encouraged even for people with sensitive skin. Likewise, AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid can be beneficial. But depending on your skin type, too much of a good thing can be a problem. If you’re picking a daily moisturizer and have irritated skin, avoid products with ingredients that, if used regularly, will cause irritation because of excessive exposure to acid. 
• Steroidal ingredients (when overused). Unless you’re under medical supervision or using a lotion that’s been prescribed by a dermatologist, opting for a topical lotion with steroidal ingredients is a bad idea. When your skin experiences too much exposure to these ingredients, it encourages skin problems such as rosacea, thinning of the skin, or systemic issues that can lead to hormonal imbalances. Typically, this is only a concern for individuals considering using creams that promise to lighten skin color. 

Skin type

Not all lotions are designed with all skin types in mind. Most of our recommendations are intended for general audiences and should be well tolerated by all skin types. But you’ll need to consider the ingredients as well as the texture. For example, someone with normal skin may be fine with an average moisturizer that absorbs quickly with a non-greasy texture. 

By contrast, someone with severely dry skin will want a heavier cream. While that cream might still absorb quickly, it contains stronger moisturizers, such as multiple ceramides or even a humectant like glycerin, to lock in moisture. Meanwhile, if you have sensitive skin, you should pay close attention to the ingredients list and avoid harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrance, and even some naturally occurring active ingredients like certain AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. 

Also, consider whether you’re looking for a short-term lotion solution or a daily moisturizer. Whereas someone with a temporary case of rough and bumpy skin might want a lotion with salicylic acid and glycolic acid in it, this might not be an ideal long-term choice as a daily moisturizer for someone with dry or sensitive skin.

FAQ

What body lotions do dermatologists recommend? 

In most cases, dermatologists will recommend lotions made with gentle ingredients that don’t contain harsh additives. Individual recommendations will vary based on your skin type and the concerns that you’re facing. But in our guide, the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream carries the National Eczema Association seal of approval. 

Should I use body lotion every day?

Everyone needs lotion. And yes, you should be using it every day. But some people may benefit from reapplying twice a day or whenever they notice dryness. 

What’s better than lotion for dry skin?

Dry skin can also benefit from creams, ointments, and even oils. While texture can help to filter your search, the bigger focus should be the ingredients. You want to look for a product that doesn’t just sit on the skin but penetrates deeply to improve hydration from within. For best results, look for a product that can support your skin in retaining moisture.