Were all looking for that healthy glow.
But is one more effective than the other?
Lauren Sisois alicensed estheticianand ALP owner of the Atlanta, Georgia-basedELLEMES Medical Spa.
Credit: Getty Images
Body Oil
Body oil is made up of mostly oils.
It is primarily used to soften skin and acts as a protective barrier to lock moisture in.
It helps fill in dry, cracked skin with lipids that restore skin and prevent moisture loss.
It also gives the skin a healthy glow.
Lotion
Lotion is lighter than oil, so it spreads and absorbs easily into the skin.
It is water-based, but many formulas contain some oil.
Lotion can be formulated to target specific skincare issues, such as eczema, itch relief, or aging.
Like body oil, it keeps moisture in.
“Even though oils feel and smell nice, they are actually not hydrating the skin.”
Oils sit on top of the skin, rather than being absorbed into it, Siso adds.
Layering these two products is going to deliver the best results.
For oily skin, Siso says you might use just amoisturizing lotion.
You must check that an oil is non-comedogenic.
This is essential to avoid clogged pores and future breakouts, Siso says.
The Pros and Cons
There are no cons to lotion, Siso says.
“All skin types need to moisturize and hydrate the skin with a lotion,” she says.
As Siso mentioned, oils serve as a lock for the moisturizing lotion you’ve applied to your skin.
Layering a lotion and an oil is your best bet for especially cold months and for especially dry skin.
As with any skincare product, you should avoid fragrances that you believe might irritate your skin.
Always be sure to patch-test a product before incorporating it into your skincare routine.
The best place to patch-test a product is on your inner forearm.
For best results, apply body lotion or oil directly after bathing or showering.
Lightly pat dry with a towel.
Its not necessary to dry completely.
Apply moisturizer to slightly damp skin.
Add more as necessary to the drier parts of the skin.
confirm to rub lotion into your skin until it is absorbed.
Letting a layer of lotion airdry may trap dirt on the skin, leading to bacteria formation.
If applying oil and lotion, rub a small amount of oil onto your skin after the lotion.
The two can be mixed, but mix only the amount you will use at one time.
Both can be applied daily but may be more necessary in winter.
Morning and night applications may help during colder weather.
Ifusing sunscreen, apply it after any moisturizers.
Sunscreen is the outer layer that protects your skin from harmful UV rays.
The Good Face Project.How to avoid pore-clogging comedogenic ingredients.
