The best body oils have two main purposes. They lock in moisture like none other and add luxury to your skin-care routine. A body oil transforms moisturizing from a tedious chore to a fun experience. You may think you are rubbing yourself down with a body oil after a shower (always moisturize your body when it’s damp!), and suddenly you’re no longer in a tiny apartment bathroom—instead you’re in a gorgeous spa somewhere in the Italian countryside preparing for a date with Timothée Chalamet.
Fantasy aside, these multitaskers really do have a lot to offer—they can impart an incredible scent, nourish more deeply than body lotion, and leave skin soft and smooth, nixing dryness and dullness in one velvety layer. (Pro tip: Use it after shaving or exfoliating. Let us know how it works.
Ellen Marmur, MD, a dermatologist in New York City, says this extreme softness results because oils mimic the natural lipids found in our bodies and, “like serums, they sink in between the cells and create a better, smoother skin surface.” Also, adds dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, oils have natural emollient ingredients that help soften rough skin. These oils can be very helpful for those with extremely dry skin or eczema. Oils that are rich in fatty acids, such as avocado oil and coconut oil, can help.
A quick word of warning: If you’re prone to breakouts on your shoulders or back, consider sticking with body lotions or creams, because—as with your face—certain oils can exacerbate body acne and breakout. Zeichner recommends that you avoid oils that are too heavy or heavy for your skin, and instead look for oils such as jojoba, tea tree, or rosehip oils.
Make sure to let the sunscreen sink in before you apply it. Intrigued? Want to know the best body oils for smooth, healthy skin?
Source: Glamour
