Top 15 Best Lotions For Dry Skin On Face And The Whole Body

How to choose the best lotions for dry skin on face and the whole body? Much like daily SPF is an unquestionable requirement, so is a daily moisturizer — and we’re talking about more than simply our faces. Moisturizers are essential for both rehydrating the skin and preventing future moisture loss, but we often neglect the rest of our body when it comes to our skincare routines. The result? Dry, thirsty skin that requires some serious hydration. Factor in any underlying skin concerns or the season and climate (we’re looking at you, winter), and you have the perfect recipe for flaky, itchy, and uncomfortable skin — or even flared-up eczema and dermatitis. Not fun.

Especially dry skin deserves a little extra TLC, and that means traditional body lotions simply won’t cut it. But fear not, with the right products, baby-soft skin is totally attainable. We did the research for you and rounded up the very best body lotions, creams, and oils to combat and prevent dry skin for all skin types and concerns. Whether you lean towards the sensitive side or you’re fighting bumpy and rough texture, these miracle products will solve all your parched skin woes.

Top 15 Best Lotions For Dry Skin On Face And The Whole Body 2024 Updated Reviews

1. Best Overall: Necessaire The Body Lotion

Consider this cult-favorite body lotion a daily multivitamin for your skin. A favorite of former Byrdie Editorial Director Faith Xue, this cleanly formulated cream is jam-packed with good-for-you ingredients: Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) moisturizes and supports the skin’s surface while vitamins A, C, and E, and omegas 6 and 9 nourish the skin with antioxidants. Its luxurious blend of marula, cacao, and meadowfoam oils deeply hydrate yet also absorb super fast, so you can quickly get on with your day without having to wait for it to soak in.

The formula is fragrance-free, pH-balanced, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing, so it’s also a perfect choice for those with more sensitive skin. And — when you figured this lotion couldn’t get any better — it’s also vegan and comes in recyclable packaging.

2. Supergoop! Body Butter SPF 40

Most higher SPF sunscreens don’t provide much moisturizing power, which is the reason we love Supergoop! super nourishing Body Butter SPF 40. One part moisture-rich body butter and one part SPF 40 sunscreen, this formula hydrates dry skin on a deeper level while offering ample protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Sea buckthorn fruit extract, meadowfoam seed oil, and argan oil are chock full of vitamins and fatty acids that keep the skin supple and smooth but never greasy, while also improving uneven skin tone, oxidation, and loss of elasticity. Bonus: This clean formula is also free of fragrance and is considered vegan and cruelty-free.

3. Curel Itch Defense Calming Body Lotion

Ceramides, pro-vitamin B5, and shea butter team up to provide instant relief for dry, itchy skin. The fragrance-free formula works on all skin types, even for those who struggle with eczema. In fact, it’s delicate to such an extent that you can use it on babies six months and up. “After about a week of applying this after my showers, I had no itching, no stinging on application, and my skin felt a whole parcel more comfortable,” one reviewer raves.

4. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

“Cerave Moisturizing Cream is one of my all-time favorite body moisturizers, and contains ceramides (a lipid naturally found in skin), glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to pack a powerful punch of deep moisturizing and hydration,” says Dr. Marchbein. “Together with cholesterol and fatty acids, ceramides are responsible for creating a healthy, intact skin barrier and retaining moisture in the skin.” With a nearly-perfect rating from a whopping 107k reviews, this all-over cream is a clear tester favorite, as well.

5. Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion

This highly-rated and affordable lotion not only contains ceramides, shea butter, and glycerin for intense hydration but also contains lactic acid, an ultra-gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates your skin for a smoother appearance. “I have tried so many different brands of lotions I can’t count them all…This stuff works like magic. My hands and feet are now healed and soft,” raves one reviewer. “The price for the size can’t be beaten for the healing it does.” Simply note that AHAs can make you sun-sensitive, so you’ll want to slather on the sunscreen afterward.

6. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

This one isn’t only for your face — it very well may be used all over to repair angry skin truly. Dr. Gohara loves that it has ceramides, shea butter, and colloidal oatmeal, which work to soothe irritation, relieve itch and leave skin feeling healthy. “I got this for my husband, who has very dry skin and eczema. After a while of using it his hands have healed up great!” one reviewer raves. “On the off chance that you have tried many different lotions or creams but none have worked, then give this a try.”

7. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+

In the event that you have sensitive skin prone to getting red, itchy, or irritated, this heavy-duty cream from La Roche-Posay — which can be used for both your face and body — is a great pick, as it’s accepted by the National Eczema Association. Thanks to its restorative ingredients of shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide (a B vitamin that reduces redness), it provides long-lasting hydration — with one reviewer saying that it cleared up their body eczema in only one week. Plus, it has Dr. Marchbein’s stamp of approval for being thick enough to heal dry patches, but still being able to sink right into the skin for a barely-there finish.

8. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream

This body cream may feel ultra-light, but it has heavy hydrating power. Infused with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, dimethicone, and petrolatum, it has all the key players needed to deliver moisture and lock it into the skin. Bonus: The formula is fragrance-and paraben-free and fast-absorbing so you’re never left with a sticky, smelly mess. One reviewer even says “I wish I could bathe in a vat of this wonderful body gel cream!”

9. Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Lotion

This silky-smooth, non-greasy lotion hydrates the skin all day long, protects from chafing and cracking, and leaves skin feeling soft instead of sticky. Glycerin gives the formula extra slip, while vitamins E and B5 nourish and strengthen — earning it a spot in our 2019 Beauty Awards. “It has been the best and most soothing lotion I have ever used,” an Amazon reviewer explains. “My skin is already really dry, so it’s a miracle on the off chance that I can get it healed and smooth. This lotion is that miracle.”

10. Aveeno Skin Relief Fragrance-Free Moisturizing Lotion

“Formulated with a triple oat complex and natural shea butter, this body lotion works great for those with dry skin. Its creamy formula spreads evenly and nicely on the skin,” explains Dr. Sperling. And with five stars and over 12k ratings on Amazon, customers love the lotion, as well. “I have very dry skin and this body lotion keeps my skin moisturized all day,” one reviewer writes. “It absorbs easily into the skin and it isn’t greasy.”

11. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

You might be familiar with Cetaphil for its face washes, but the brand also offers great lotions, as well. With a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores) formula that packs glycerin, vitamin B5, and niacinamide, this lightweight and non-greasy lotion is ideal for use on the entire body and is also great for sensitive skin. “The intense, moisture-rich formula binds water to the skin and protects from dryness for 24 hours,” Dr. Bae says.

12. Avene Xeracalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Balm

For especially sensitive skin types, this lotion from Avène boasts a National Eczema Association seal of acceptance, as it’s suitable for eczema or atopic dermatitis-prone skin. That’s thanks to strong moisturizers (glycerin and mineral oil) and what it leaves out; it has no ingredients that can cause irritation, such as preservatives, parabens, or fragrances. This one pulls double duty, as you can use it on your face and body.

13. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion

Looking for a lightweight, non-greasy lotion that’s perfect for daily use? Another great pick from Aveeno, this fragrance-free and non-comedogenic lotion recommended by Dr. Madfes is gentle enough to use every day — and promises to moisturize dry skin for a full 24 hours. Colloidal oatmeal has a soothing effect and reinforces the skin’s barrier, while moisturizers like dimethicone, glycerin, and petrolatum work to smooth skin. “After three days of using this twice per day on legs and hands, I noticed a huge difference,” one customer explains. “My skin is no longer flaking or cracking.”

14. Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Body Cream

Weleda’s Skin Food is a cult favorite, thanks to its natural ingredients, thick formula, and serious versatility. Slather this on any dry patch — whether it be on your face, elbows, hands, feet, or knees — and its base of oils and beeswax will get to work to repair and hydrate damaged skin. Plus, it boasts a botanical fragrance that smells exactly like spring. “It is amazing, thick, creamy goodness that feels like heaven when applied to your body,” one reviewer says.

15. GEHWOL Med Salve for Cracked Skin

This ointment moisturizes parched skin while soothing inflammation, making it perfect for dry, cracked heels. Created with lanolin, Vaseline, vitamin B5, and lavender, it’s ideal for healing even the most stressed-out skin. And would you look at that super-cool tube? “Gehwol is excellent for cracked skin (heels, split skin on hands from dry winter weather, and anything else that has been abused by indoor heat),” one reviewer explains. “I apply the cracked skin salve on my feet, then cover them with socks to absorb any excess. It does wonders!”

Best Lotions for Dry Skin on Face and Whole Body: A Step-by-Step Buying Guide

When it comes to dry skin, selecting the right lotion is crucial for restoring moisture and preventing further irritation. With so many options on the market, making an informed decision is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the best lotions for dry skin on both the face and body.

1. Understand Your Skin Type

First, identify your skin type. While your skin is dry, you might have additional factors to consider. Is it sensitive, acne-prone, or aging? Knowing your skin type will guide you in picking a product tailored to your specific needs.

2. Look for Hydrating Ingredients

The next step is to look for lotions with powerful hydrating ingredients. For both the face and body, you want products that provide long-lasting moisture. Some of the best ingredients for dry skin include:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A natural moisture-binding ingredient that helps retain water in the skin.
• Ceramides: These help to restore the skin’s natural barrier.
• Glycerin: A humectant that attracts moisture from the environment.
• Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter: Deeply nourishing ingredients for hydration and softness.

3. Choose the Right Formula for Your Face

Facial skin is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the body. Choose a lotion that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. Look for lightweight, fast-absorbing lotions if you have combination or acne-prone skin, while thicker creams or balms work best for very dry or mature skin.

4. Pick a Body Lotion with Rich Moisture

Body lotions should offer deeper hydration since the skin on your body is typically less sensitive but more prone to dryness. Opt for thicker creams or body butters that are enriched with oils or butters for maximum hydration. Look for body lotions that specifically mention “intense hydration” or “extra dry skin” on the label.

5. Consider Fragrance-Free Options

Fragrance can irritate dry and sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, consider fragrance-free lotions to avoid potential irritation or allergic reactions. Many lotions marketed for sensitive skin will highlight this on the packaging.

6. Check for Dermatologist Recommendations

Some lotions are dermatologist-tested or recommended, which means they are more likely to be gentle and effective for sensitive or dry skin. Brands such as CeraVe, Eucerin, and Aveeno often carry this endorsement.

7. SPF Protection for the Face

For daytime use, it’s important to choose a lotion for the face that includes SPF protection. Sun damage can worsen dry skin, so an SPF of at least 30 is advisable for daily wear.

8. Consider Special Skin Concerns

If you have specific concerns such as eczema, psoriasis, or severely cracked skin, look for lotions that are designed to address these conditions. Products with colloidal oatmeal or urea are beneficial for these skin types.

9. Patch Test Before Full Use

Even if a lotion looks perfect on paper, it’s important to do a patch test before applying it all over your face or body. Apply a small amount on your inner wrist or behind your ear and wait 24 hours to ensure there is no irritation.

10. Budget and Brand

Finally, consider your budget. Lotions for dry skin come in a wide price range. Drugstore brands like Neutrogena, Vaseline, and Cetaphil offer affordable, effective options, while luxury brands like La Roche-Posay or Kiehl’s might provide a more premium experience. However, effectiveness isn’t always tied to price, so choose based on your skin’s needs.

FAQs About the Best Lotions for Dry Skin on Face and Whole Body

1. What ingredients should I look for in lotions for dry skin?

When choosing lotions for dry skin, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, shea butter, cocoa butter, and oils like jojoba or almond oil. These help lock in moisture and nourish the skin.

2. Can I use the same lotion for my face and body?

While some lotions are suitable for both face and body, it’s generally recommended to use separate products. The skin on your face is more sensitive and may require a lighter, non-comedogenic formula, whereas the body may benefit from a richer, thicker lotion.

3. How often should I apply lotion to dry skin?

For best results, apply lotion twice daily—once in the morning and once at night. Applying right after a shower while your skin is still damp can help lock in extra moisture.

4. Are fragrance-free lotions better for dry skin?

Yes, fragrance-free lotions are often better for dry and sensitive skin, as added fragrances can cause irritation or dryness. Always check for labels indicating “fragrance-free” or “suitable for sensitive skin.”

5. What’s the best lotion for severely dry or cracked skin?

For severely dry or cracked skin, choose a lotion with intensive moisturizing ingredients such as urea, colloidal oatmeal, or lanolin. These ingredients are highly effective for healing and soothing extra dry or damaged skin.

6. Can lotions for dry skin also help with conditions like eczema or psoriasis?

Yes, many lotions are specifically designed for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Look for products with colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, or cortisone for soothing irritation and reducing inflammation.

7. Should I choose a lotion with SPF for my face?

Yes, especially if you’re applying lotion in the morning or before going outside. SPF helps protect your skin from sun damage, which can worsen dryness. Look for a lotion with at least SPF 30 for daily use.

8. Can lotions clog pores on the face?

Some lotions, especially those formulated for the body, may clog pores when applied to the face. To avoid this, opt for non-comedogenic lotions for the face, which are designed not to block pores.

9. Are thicker lotions always better for dry skin?

Thicker lotions generally provide more hydration, which can be beneficial for the body. However, for facial skin, a thicker lotion may be too heavy and could cause breakouts. It’s best to use lightweight lotions on the face and richer creams on the body.

10. Is it important to patch-test lotions before using them?

Yes, it’s a good idea to patch-test any new lotion, especially if you have sensitive skin. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and wait 24 hours to ensure there’s no irritation or allergic reaction.

11. Can I layer different lotions for added hydration?

Yes, layering products can boost hydration. You can start with a lighter lotion or serum for your face and follow with a heavier moisturizer. For the body, applying lotion after an oil or balm can help seal in moisture.

12. What’s the best time to apply lotion?

The best time to apply lotion is right after a shower or bath when your skin is slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture and enhances the lotion’s effectiveness.

Conclusion: Best Lotions For Dry Skin On Face

Dry skin is a common issue, particularly as people age. It happens when the skin does not retain enough water or natural oil. The best body lotion for dry skin can help lock in moisture to rehydrate the skin.

Make sure that water is an ingredient in any lotion and avoid products that contain fragrances, preservatives, dyes, alcohol, parabens, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.

For further advice, speak with a healthcare professional. This is especially important for people with skin health issues or allergies to any ingredients in cosmetics.

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