Matts P, Oblong J. A review of the range of effects of niacinamide in human skin. Int Fed Soc Cosmet Chem Mag. Li Pomi F, Papa V, Borgia F, et al. Rosmarinus officinalis and Skin: Antioxidant Activity and Possible Therapeutical Role in Cutaneous Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023;12(3):680. Published 2023 Mar 9. doi:10.3390/antiox12030680 Michalak M. Plant-Derived Antioxidants: Significance in Skin Health and the Ageing Process. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Jan 6;23(2):585. doi: 10.3390/ijms23020585. PMID: 35054770; PMCID: PMC8776015. This fragrance-free, fast-absorbing moisturizer is suitable for all skin types. We highly recommend this option to pretty much everyone in need of full-body hydration. While it is gentle, niacinamide in this formula can burn freshly shaven skin for some.

According to James Y. Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles, mildly exfoliating body lotions are ideal for all skin types, especially those who have concerns over body acne. "This is especially important in acne-prone skin because the skin barrier is disrupted and there is underlying inflammation," he says. "Lotions that contain mild glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid can be helpful as long as they are not overused, which can lead to sensitivity." Dr. Greenfield also adds that acne-prone skin types should avoid ingredients that are considered occlusive, including heavy, petroleum-jelly-based creams or oils because they can trap bacteria under the skin.We test to see which body lotions will actually keep your skin hydrated by rounding up a wide range of moisturizers (21 in our last test) and narrowing down the field based on initial moisturization capabilities. In the Lab, we measure hydration changes on skin with the Corneometer device (which measures skin's hydration) before and after lotion application. Caitlyn Martyn is a staff commerce writer at Byrdie, where she covers all things beauty and style. Caitlyn considers using body lotion a non-negotiable in her nighttime shower routine and has tried almost all of the products on this list. Chambers ES, Vukmanovic-Stejic M. Skin barrier immunity and ageing. Immunology. 2020 Jun;160(2):116-125. doi: 10.1111/imm.13152. Epub 2019 Dec 4. PMID: 31709535; PMCID: PMC7218662. This rich cream contains not one, not two, but three types of essential ceramides—meaning it will keep skin nourished, comfortable, and hydrated for 24 hours. It was developed by dermatologists and relies on a patented formulation that provides a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. Also nice: It’s easy to get your hands on since it’s available at almost any drugstore or cosmetics retailer. When a derm recommended this product for our dry skin (during a time we were on medication for acne), we became hooked. It's nourishing without being heavy or oily— and the price point is something we can get behind.

Wang D, Nagata M, Matsumoto M, Amen Y, Wang D, Shimizu K. Potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and Hibiscus Acid to Reverse Skin Aging. Molecules. 2022;27(18):6076. Published 2022 Sep 17. doi:10.3390/molecules27186076 Zamil DH, Khan RM, Braun TL, Nawas ZY. Dermatological uses of rice products: Trend or true?. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022;21(11):6056-6060. doi:10.1111/jocd.15099 Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. Published 2017 Dec 27. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070 Morales-Burgos A, Loosemore MP, Goldberg LH. Postoperative wound care after dermatologic procedures: a comparison of 2 commonly used petrolatum-based ointments. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013;12(2):163-164. This body cream is super luxurious—both in consistency and fragrance. It contains nourishing cupuaçu butter, hydrating coconut oil, and skin-conditioning squalane to soften the skin while also imparting a subtle coconut cream fragrance that smells just like a vacation.This is a good option for anyone interested in spending a bit more money in exchange for a product that can add a little bit of luxury to everyday life. This product smells incredible, so whether you save it for yourself or gift it to a friend, it’s sure to make applying moisturizer that much more enjoyable. Just keep in mind that heavily fragranced products aren’t for everyone (some people can have skin allergies to fragrance). This is a great option if you’re looking to elevate your everyday moisturizing routine without splurging a ton. Between the aesthetic-looking bottle and sweet-smelling lotion, it’s luxurious but still relatively affordable. Sensitive skin types will appreciate Aveeno's soothing, fragrance-free formula. The brand generally emphasizes naturally sourced ingredients; this formulation is no exception. It contains oat extract (which is known to soothe the skin and restore the moisture barrier), dimethicone (an ingredient that protects the skin and seals in moisture), and glycerin (an ingredient that draws moisture into the skin). Draelos ZD. The science behind skin care: Moisturizers. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018;17(2):138-144. doi:10.1111/jocd.12490