
Body Oils vs Lotions: What’s Better for Your Skin and When to Use Each
Written by
Nodbeauty
Published
Mon, 23rd Jun 2025
3 min. read
We all want soft, glowing, hydrated skin—but when it comes to body care, choosing between body oil and lotion can be surprisingly confusing. While they both nourish and moisturise the skin, they work in different ways, and knowing when to use each can take your body care game to the next level.
Here’s everything you need to know about body oils vs. lotions: how they differ, when to use them, and how to choose the right one for your skin type or routine.
What’s the Difference Between Body Oil and Body Lotion?
Body Oils
Body oils are usually plant-based and made from natural oils like jojoba, almond, coconut, or argan. They’re rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, and are designed to lock in moisture by creating a protective barrier on the skin.
They don't typically add hydration, but they’re amazing at sealing it in, especially after a shower.
Best for:
Very dry or flaky skin
Dull skin needing a glow boost
Massage or luxe body rituals
Body Lotions
Lotions are water-based moisturisers that typically contain humectants (like glycerin or hyaluronic acid) and emollients (like shea butter or ceramides). They hydrate the skin while also softening and smoothing. They’re usually lighter in texture and absorb more quickly, making them ideal for daily use.
Best for:
Normal to dry skin
Daily moisture maintenance
Quick, no-fuss application

When to Use Body Oil vs. Lotion
Kick things off with a moment to unwind. If you’ve got a bath, add a soothing soak or oil to melt away stress. If not, a steamy shower with aromatherapy can be just as luxurious.
Right After a Shower:
Use a body oil on damp skin to seal in moisture. The oil will trap water in the skin, keeping it soft and nourished.
You can also layer a lotion first, then oil if your skin is very dry or sensitive (yes—double moisturising is a thing!).
Morning Routine:
Lotions are better during the day—they’re lightweight, absorb quickly, and won’t leave you feeling greasy under clothes.
Look for a lotion with SPF for added protection if you're heading out.
Evening Ritual:
Oils are perfect for night-time pampering. They work while you sleep to repair, restore, and deeply nourish. Plus, the added aromatherapy benefit of scented oils (like lavender or neroli) makes for a calming wind-down.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
While both body oils and lotions deliver moisture, they do so in different ways—each with their own strengths.
Body oils are rich, nourishing, and ideal for locking in moisture, especially after a shower. They leave skin with a radiant glow and often contain antioxidant-rich ingredients, but they can feel a little greasy and tend to absorb more slowly.
Body lotions, on the other hand, are lightweight, fast-absorbing, and perfect for daily hydration. They’re ideal for quick application and work well under clothing, but may need to be reapplied more often—especially if your skin is very dry or exposed to the elements. The best choice depends on your routine, skin type, and how much time you have to pamper yourself.
Final Thoughts: Oil, Lotion—or Both?
Next up: face mask time. Choose based on your skin’s needs—hydration, detox, brightening—and don’t rush it. While the mask is on, treat yourself to a scalp massage, gua sha, or jade rolling to boost circulation and calm the nervous system.
Ultimately, you don’t have to choose one over the other. Think of body oils and lotions as tools in your body care toolkit:
Reach for lotions when you need fast, daily hydration.
Use body oils when your skin needs deep nourishment, glow, or extra TLC.
Layer them when your skin is craving extra moisture, especially in winter or after sun exposure.
Glowing, smooth skin doesn’t have to come from the spa—just the right product, at the right time.