Ultimately, you can use either body oil or lotion to replenish dry skin, but if you really want to reap hydrating benefits, it's best to try both. “Body oils contain emollient ingredients like fatty acids to help hydrate and soften the outer skin layer,” says Dr. Zeichner.
If you're wondering how to use body oil, it's actually all about timing. Because of their occlusive nature, oils will work better when your skin is wet (since it helps lock in that water) so that might be your best option directly after showering.
A question we're frequently asked is, “Are body oils better than lotions”? In short, both can do the work of moisturizing skin, but body oils go the extra mile. If you've been considering a clean swap, opting for a body oil over a lotion is one of the most important shifts you can make.
How to Use It: Spray on damp hair to protect from heat and prevent frizz. Use it as a finisher to add a little extra shine to your hairstyle. Get some extra frizz control throughout the day with a spritz or two as needed.
"A body oil will provide a protective barrier to the dry skin and keep your skin texture smooth, while lotion tends to evaporate and not give the same tactile textural improvement you'd get from an oil." Dr. Loretta suggests layering your body oil on top of your lotion, effectively sandwiching it with your skin.
Research has shown that almond oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, argan oil, and others are best for dry skin and conditions that cause dry skin like eczema.
Vaseline is a very good moisturizer for dry skin. Applying a layer of Vaseline to dry skin helps lock in moisture. Vaseline is great for treating all the usual dry areas, such as the: heels.
Because oil is the heaviest — or most dense — product in your routine, it's able to penetrate your moisturizer, allowing it to reach your skin, but the reverse isn't true. If you want to really amp up the moisture, apply your oil after applying moisturizer onto damp skin.
So you use more lotion, and your skin gets drier, and the cycle just continues. Not only does that expose you to dozens of unregulated and untested chemicals that are ingredients in lotions, but it's costing you money, too. The cure? Look no further than your kitchen cabinet.
Apply all over post-shower
Before toweling off and while your skin is still damp, drop oil over your entire body. A little goes a long way and works wonders to replenish dry skin.
Consuming omega-3, green tea antioxidants, and turmeric can also help prevent dry skin.
Multiple Causes To Dry And Flaky Skin. Dry and flaky skin can be a normal part of aging, but often, dry skin can result from temperature or humidity changes, skin conditions, bad washing habits, and dehydration. People can improve dry and flaky skin with proper skin products and hydration methods.
Coconut oil may have many potential benefits for the skin. Research suggests that it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Coconut oil is also very moisturizing for dry skin. A person can apply coconut oil directly to the skin.
Baby oil works by forming a semi-breathable barrier over the skin. This barrier locks in moisture already on the skin's surface. Some adults also use baby oil on their bodies to relieve dry skin. Some swear that it gives their facial skin a special smoothness and glow.
The nutshell version:
You can use the Facial and Body Oils interchangeably as your heart desires. However, I recommend first trying a small patch test of the Body Oil near your face if you have especially sensitive skin to be sure your skin feels happy with it.
Jojoba oil has been noted for repairing the top layer of skin, thanks to its natural fatty acid content . Other oils that provide similar results include argan, coconut, and sunflower seed oils. Jojoba is also known for being lightweight, which makes it a good choice for oily skin.
Argan oil. What it is: Extracted from nuts of the Moroccan argan tree, this oil is a soothing and powerful moisturizer for all skin types. Why it works: Argan oil is packed with vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids.
When To Use Body Oil
Body oils also make for the perfect no-fuss moisturizing option as they absorb quickly into the skin.
When applied to clean, exfoliated skin, body oil can be applied daily to the whole body. Make sure to apply it before other products. For extra dry areas, oil can be used on targeted areas multiples times per day, start with less and slowly build up to find the perfect balance.
A normally-hydrated person probably won't see a difference in their skin after drinking an increased volume of water. Drinking an excessive amount of water can lead to other health problems and is not recommended (nor effective) for dry skin. Dry skin is an external problem and is best treated from the outside.