When it comes to skincare routines, face care often takes centre stage. With most of our body being hidden under clothing for at least half the year, it’s understandable that caring for the skin on your body is often an afterthought. Plus, the occlusive, sticky nature of most body moisturising products tend to put a lot of people off. While generally thinner creams like lotions may not cut it in the colder months, I was determined to find one that would fit easily into my daily routine, requires minimal effort to apply and provides lasting hydration without the greasy or sticky finish often experienced with thicker creams.

While working in the beauty industry I’ve come to understand that the skin below the neck is more prone to drying out as it’s generally thicker with fewer oil-producing glands, I must admit I always found moisturising to be a bit of a chore. I also never loved the feeling of wearing clothes or getting into bed after moisturising. For the longest time I enjoyed soft and supple skin, which I took for granted. Instead of moisturising as a preventative measure for the dry skin that was inevitably going to hit me as my skin ages, I often skipped this step. Nowadays my skin goes through periods of being really dry, itchy and uncomfortable, probably due to living in a city that is cold for six months of the year and my love of long, hot bubble baths that are known to strip and damage the skin over time. However, with time, I became more diligent about replenishing my skin after cleansing and washing. To top it off, for the last few months I was experiencing a curious flaky and scaly patch on my right leg that I got into a vicious cycle of itching, making it rather sensitive. So my research for this post couldn’t have come at a better time.

What to Look For In A Body Lotion

When choosing the perfect body lotion, there are a few factors to consider: ingredients, texture, and how well it suits your skin's needs. An effective and balanced moisturiser should combine two types of emollients that restore the skin’s barrier and soften the surface:

Humectants (like glycerin and hyaluronic acid) to draw moisture in.
Occlusives (like plant butters and waxes) to lock it in and prevent water loss.

Here’s a comparison of some of the most popular lotions according to TikTok, beauty editors and dermatologists, including the Milk It Body Lotion by KOBA skincare, that will help you find your ideal match. After trying and testing each body lotion for a period of two weeks, applying the products to post-shower damp skin, here’s what I uncovered.

1. CeraVe Moisturising Lotion

A frequent topper of the beauty bestseller charts, CeraVe is known for its dermatologist-recommended, no-frills approach to skincare. This lotion features ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which are key to restoring the skin’s natural barrier and retaining moisture. It's fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin, and its MVE technology ensures long-lasting hydration.

However, for me personally it has that slight chemical-like scent I typically associate with pharmaceutical products. After giving it a minute or so to sink, it absorbs completely with no residue and feels featherlight on the skin. Though lightweight, it packs a powerful punch result as is a favourite for its affordability, effectiveness and the fact that it doubles as a body and face cream. While the packaging is not particularly attractive or luxurious, I LOVE a pump bottle with a handy twist-to-shut mechanism, however, mine broke off in my toiletry bag whIle travelling.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for normal to dry skin, including sensitive skin type.

Uses: Provides long-lasting hydration, replenishes the skin barrier, and soothes dry skin with a lightweight, non-greasy formula.

Active Ingredients: Includes three essential ceramides (Ceramide NP, AP, and EOP) to support the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for moisture retention, and MVE Technology for sustained hydration over 24 hours.

Potential Allergens: Free of fragrance and parabens, minimizing irritation risks. It is also non-comedogenic, ensuring it won't clog pores.

Cruelty-Free: No

Price: Typically priced around $12-$15 for an 8 oz (236 ml) bottle, depending on the retailer.

About the Brand: CeraVe, founded in 2005 is developed with dermatologists, focusing on products designed to restore and maintain the skin barrier, emphasising efficacy, accessibility, and expert-recommended formulations.

2. Aveeno Skin Relief Body Lotion

Inside Aveeno's Skin Relief Body Lotion hosts an oat forward formula as well as some nourishing moisture-laden classics like glycerin and shea butter that does what is says on the bottle; provides instant relief and calm, restores the skin’s natural barrier, and soothes irritated, itchy and dry skin.

The lotion is cooling when applied and the texture is a perfect balance between rich and smooth that absorbs well and doesn’t sit on the surface, leaving my skin soft and protected without feeling slimy or greasy. The pump factor is a plus for me as efficiency in my routine is key. This cult-favourite body lotion is a popular drugstore option, making it accessible and budget-friendly.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for dry, sensitive, mature, normal, and combination skin types. It is especially effective for very dry and itchy skin.

Uses: Provides 48-hour hydration, helps heal and relieve dry, itchy skin, and soothes irritation. It is also recommended for those experiencing eczema or similar skin concerns.

Active Ingredients: Contains dimethicone as a skin protectant and a Triple Oat Complex (oat flour, oat oil, and oat extract) combined with shea butter for long-lasting moisture and skin soothing.

Potential Allergens: Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and dye-free. Allergy-tested and safe for sensitive skin.

Cruelty-Free: Aveeno does not market itself as cruelty-free, as its parent company, Johnson & Johnson, permits animal testing where required by law.

Price: Approximately $10-$12 for an 18 oz bottle, depending on the retailer

About the Brand: With over 70 years of history in developing gentle, effective products using natural ingredients backed by science while also committing to inclusive and sustainable practices.

3. Nivea Rich Nourishing Body Lotion

Nivea’s Rich Nourishing Body Lotion is a thicker lotion coming to the rescue for very dry, scaly and tight skin. With almond oil and vitamin E, it provides intense hydration and smooths the skin. The creamy texture can be heavier than other lotions, making it ideal for those with rough patches.

My skin definitely breathed a sigh of relief upon application, leaving it comforted and nourished throughout the day. However, it might feel too rich for those with more normal skin, especially in warmer climates. What I did really enjoy is its long-lasting moisturising effects, but note that it takes a while to absorb and for me left a sticky residue that made it rather unpleasant to slip into the sheets as well as clothing.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for dry and very dry skin. It is designed to provide intensive care and deep moisture for long-lasting hydration.

Uses: Provides 72-hour moisture, deeply nourishes the skin, and helps achieve a soft and smooth texture. Ideal for daily use to maintain skin hydration and comfort.

Active Ingredients: Contains Nivea's Deep Moisture Serum, hyaluronic acid, almond oil, and vitamin E, which work together to moisturize and protect the skin.

Potential Allergens: Includes fragrance, benzyl alcohol, and linalool, which may be potential irritants for sensitive skin.

Cruelty-Free: Nivea does not currently meet the criteria for being certified cruelty-free, as their products are sold in markets requiring animal testing by law.

Price: Approximately £5–£7 for a 400 ml bottle, depending on the retailer.

About the Brand: Nivea is a globally recognized brand known for its accessible skincare solutions. Established in 1911, it focuses on products that combine care, science, and affordability.

4. Le Labo Body Lotion

For those seeking luxury, Le Labo Body Lotion offers a sensory experience with its signature fragrances, my personal preference being Santal 33. This body lotion is packed with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and sweet almond oil, which hydrate while leaving the skin lightly scented. While it's more of a splurge, the quality and the brand’s artisanal approach to fragrance make it a beloved choice among those looking for both skincare and a subtle perfume in one product.

Slightly on the thicker side than I would prefer in a body lotion, the Le Labo Body Lotion does take a bit longer to work into the skin, with a very slight sticky feeling at the end. However, this doesn’t last too long, but I had to give it a few minutes before getting into bed or slipping on a pair of jeans. Despite being a scented lotion, I didn’t experience any irritation or reaction on the areas of my body that were already itchy (though I don’t recommend testing any scented lotion on areas of irritation), which is a true testament to how gentle it is.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types.

Uses: Provides lightweight hydration while softening and smoothing the skin. Infused with the iconic Santal 33 fragrance, it leaves a lasting, luxurious scent.

Active Ingredients: Formulated with aloe vera, vitamin E, vitamin A, coconut oil, white tea extract, and olive oil to deeply nourish and moisturize the skin.

Potential Allergens: Contains fragrance, which may trigger sensitivities for some users. The formula is paraben-free and vegan.

Cruelty-Free: The lotion is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

Price: Approximately £53–£55 for a 237 ml bottle, depending on the retailer

About the Brand : Le Labo is a luxury fragrance brand celebrated for its artisanal, hand-blended products and unique approach to personal care. Its focus is on high-quality, natural ingredients and the craftsmanship behind every scent, offering an elevated sensory experience.

5. Amlactin Daily Moisturising Body Lotion

The drugstore/pharmacy classic, Amalctin Daily Moisturising Body Lotion, while it may not be the sexiest product in your bathroom, stands out due to its 12% lactic acid content, making it excellent for gently exfoliating dry, rough skin. Amlactin is lightweight and silky, helping improve skin texture by gently dissolving dead skin cells, while its humectants like glycerine draw moisture into the skin. It’s particularly recommended for conditions like keratosis pilaris as well as diminishing body acne.

However, because of the active ingredients, it may not be suitable for very sensitive skin or for those who prefer a fragrance-free experience. As someone who started their hair removal journey at quite a young age, as well as having brown skin, I have dealt with ingrown hairs and bumpy skin which often led to uneven skin tone in the form of hyperpigmentation as well as dark spots.

I have tried everything from intensive scrubs to dry brushing and have finally found a body care routine that works for me. However, the presence of AHAs in Amlactin meant that I didn’t need multiple steps in my body care routine to help fix my concerns and achieve smoother, softer skin and more even skin. After two weeks of day and night use, I’ve noticed a significant change in the appearance and feel of my “strawberry skin.”

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Designed for rough, dry, and bumpy skin. Suitable for those experiencing conditions like keratosis pilaris, flaky skin, or ashy texture

Uses: This lotion exfoliates and deeply hydrates the skin using 12% lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that promotes cell turnover. It smooths and softens skin, restores radiance, and improves overall texture when used consistently

Active Ingredients:

Lactic Acid (12%): AHA that gently exfoliates dead skin cells while providing hydration.
Glycerin: Attracts moisture to the skin.
Mineral Oil: Seals in hydration to combat dryness.
Dimethicone: Forms a protective barrier on the skin to lock in moisture

Potential Allergens: Contains ingredients like steareth-2 and glyceryl stearate SE, which may be irritants for some users. Always patch test if you have sensitive skin.

Cruelty-Free: Yes, AmLactin is cruelty-free and not tested on animals.

Price: Approximately $13.97 for a 7.9 oz bottle, though prices may vary by retailer.

About the Brand: AmLactin is known for clinically effective, dermatologist-recommended body care solutions, especially for those with dry, flaky, or bumpy skin. The brand emphasises high-quality, science-backed formulations with a focus on achieving healthy skin.

6. Drunk Elephant TLC Glycolic Body Milk

Drunk Elephant's TLC Glycolic Body Milk is a supercharged option for those looking to exfoliate and moisturise in one step. With glycolic acid, 10% AHAs and nourishing marula butter, it works to smooth rough and flaky skin while also providing hydration to replenish dull, dry skin. If, like me, you experience little bumps on your limbs, the unique combination of ingredients act as an exfoliant to soften the skin.

Unlike traditional scrubs, which are only a temporary fix, the TLC Glycolic Body Milk by Drunk Elephant, takes care of your skin’s texture long-term. This product is also fragrance-free, silicone-free, and part of Drunk Elephant’s “clean-clinical” lineup, making it a suitable alternative to harsh scrubs for sensitive. However, the exfoliating acids might be too strong for everyday use on very dry and compromised skin. If you have never used acids before, I recommend using this product carefully such as every other day, and if you have very sensitive skin try mixing it with another lotion to make it less strong.

You may also experience a slight tingling sensation as your skin gets used to it, though it’s nothing to fear. What I really love about this product is that a little goes a long way. It has a runny, milk-like texture that spreads easily and absorbs quickly without a greasy residue. Given its AHA based formula, avoid going into the sun after applying this product.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, particularly those with rough, uneven, or dry skin.

Uses: Exfoliates and hydrates, improving skin texture, tone, and barrier strength. Ideal for addressing rough patches, dullness, and bumpy skin.

Active Ingredients:

T.L.C. Framboos™ AHA Blend: Glycolic, lactic, citric, and tartaric acids for gentle exfoliation and smoother skin.
Marula Butter: Rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and lipids for deep moisturisation.
Shea Butter: Provides emollient properties and skin-barrier protection.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Strengthens the skin barrier, improves tone and texture, and boosts hydration.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: Delivers hydration deep into the skin.
Squalane: Acts as a moisturising agent and antioxidant.
Coconut Water, Passionfruit Oil, and Apricot Oil: Lightweight hydration and antioxidant support.

Potential Allergens: Formulated without sulfates, silicones, essential oils, fragrances, dyes, and drying alcohols. Slight tingling may occur due to the AHA content.

Cruelty-Free: Certified cruelty-free and vegan, containing no animal-derived ingredients

Price: Approximately $42 for 8 fl oz (240 ml)

About the Brand: Drunk Elephant emphasises biocompatible skincare, avoiding “suspicious” ingredients and focusing on balanced, effective formulations for skin health. The brand combines natural and clinical actives, aiming for transformative results.

7. Nécessaire Body Lotion

I’ve been on quite the journey switching all my products for cleaner alternatives. However, this has come with a lot of trial and error, as well as dedication to learning more about ingredients, how they work together and how my skin responds. Nécessaire’s Body Lotion is a clean, minimalistic option that emphasises skin health.

It’s formulated with a blend of skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide, plant oils, and peptides, which help support the skin’s natural barrier, promote moisture retention, and even out skin tone. This addition of niacinamide, which is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, makes this lotion particularly appealing for those looking for both hydration and skin repair in one product. It works to quench and calm dry and irritated skin while still being gentle enough for regular use.

The lotion is fragrance-free, making it ideal for both men and women, sensitive skin or those who prefer a neutral scent. What I really appreciate is its super lightweight texture, making it suitable for daily use all year-round. The formula soaks into the skin quickly - sans greasy residue, allowing me to easily slip into my clothes minutes after application. It’s also vegan, cruelty-free, and housed in sustainable packaging, aligning with Nécessaire’s eco-conscious approach to skincare. I’m also going to give extra points for its simple and functional packaging.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type:
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulation makes it ideal for those with sensitivities.

Uses: Moisturizes, nourishes, and strengthens the skin with a multi-vitamin formula. It also improves skin health and texture while being non-greasy and quick to absorb.

Active Ingredients:

Vitamins: A, B3 (Niacinamide), C, and E
Omega Fatty Acids: Omega-6 and Omega-9
Plant-Based Oils: Marula, Jojoba, and Meadowfoam Seed Oil
Natural Extracts: Sugarcane, Apple, and Citrus extracts for added hydration and nourishment.

Potential Allergens: Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, and sulfates. Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested.

Cruelty-Free: Yes, it is vegan and certified cruelty-free.

Price: Approximately $28 for a 200 ml bottle.

About the Brand: Nécessaire is known for its minimalist, clean, and sustainable approach to body care. The brand emphasises effective formulas made with high-quality, non-toxic ingredients. Its commitment to sustainability includes climate-neutral certification and eco-friendly packaging

8. Caudalie’s Thé des Vignes Hyaluronic Nourishing Body Lotion

Caudalie’s is a luxurious option that combines hydration with a touch of indulgence. Infused with hyaluronic acid and organic shea butter, it deeply moisturizes and plumps the skin, providing long-lasting hydration.

The lotion also includes grape seed polyphenols, which are rich in antioxidants, helping to protect the skin from environmental damage while nourishing it. What sets this lotion apart is its iconic fragrance—Thé des Vignes—a delicate blend of white musk, neroli, and ginger, which leaves a subtle, lingering scent. Despite its richness, the formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.

Customers love its velvety texture and non-greasy finish, praising its ability to leave the skin soft and supple without feeling heavy. The combination of hyaluronic acid and grape seed oil makes this lotion perfect for those looking to deeply hydrate while enjoying a sensorial experience with every application.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, particularly normal to dry skin.

Uses: Hydrates, nourishes, and protects the skin while leaving it delicately scented with a luxurious, sensual fragrance inspired by the evening vineyards.

Active Ingredients:

Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps the skin.
Grape Seed Oil: Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, it moisturizes and protects.
Shea Butter: Provides deep hydration and nourishment.
Antioxidant Grape Seed Polyphenols: Protect against environmental damage and boost skin radiance.

Potential Allergens: Contains fragrance components such as limonene and linalool, which could irritate sensitive skin.

Cruelty-Free: Yes, Caudalie is a cruelty-free brand.

Price: Approximately $18 for 200ml and $32 for 400ml.

About the Brand: Caudalie is a French skincare brand celebrated for its commitment to natural, environmentally friendly, and effective formulas. Many of their products incorporate grape-derived ingredients from the family’s vineyards, emphasising sustainability and luxury.

Why We Love It: This lotion combines lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration with antioxidant benefits, leaving the skin soft and pampered throughout the day.

9. Milk It Body Lotion by KOBA skincare

This nourishing lotion is designed to meet all your skin’s essential needs with all skin types in mind, including sensitive skin. Formulated with hydrating plant oils and antioxidants, it deeply moisturizes without clogging pores.

The hero ingredient, safou oil, helps lock in moisture and boost collagen production, while shea butter softens and smooths the skin and allantoin gently exfoliates to buff away dead skin cells. It has a lightweight texture that is reminiscent of milk that aborbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy feel, making it ideal for daily use. It is praised for being vegan, cruelty-free, and free of harsh chemicals, aligning with KOBA's clean beauty philosophy.

What I love most about it is that it offers everything I look for in my beauty products from its beautiful, easy squeeze packaging that looks great in my bathroom to its unique formula and very delicate fragrance that blends well with my perfume without overpowering or causing further irritation to the areas of my skin that might be more sensitive.

Key Characteristics

Skin Type: Suitable for all skin types, ideal for maintaining a soft, hydrated, and nourished skin.

Uses: A deeply hydrating and lightweight body lotion designed to absorb quickly, comfort dry, dull skin and restore its natural suppleness while improving overall texture.

Active Ingredients:

Safou oil: Locks in moisture, even skin tone, boost collagen production and stimulate a natural oil barrier, revealing skin that is plumper, hydrated and appears younger.
Allantoin: Gently exfoliates and soothes removing dead skin cells and preventing dryness and irritation to keep the skin moisturised.
Niacinamide: Brightens and improves the skin’s appearance and texture, rebuilds healthy skin cells and increases the skin’s resilience.

Potential Allergens: Free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and sulfates.

Cruelty-Free: Yes, KOBA skincare is vegan and cruelty-free.

Price: £45 for 250 ml.

About the Brand: Established in May 2022, KOBA skincare was born on a mission to simplify skincare with results-driven routines. KOBA combines African heritage ingredients with French skincare expertise, embodying a self-care ethos and ensuring radiant and healthy skin.

Final Thoughts

Each of these lotions offers something unique, though using them back to back has made it difficult to determine which helped the itchy and flaky patch on my leg the best. CeraVe and Aveeno are top picks for those with sensitive skin, but also don’t want to spend too much, due to their calming and barrier-repairing formulas, while AmLactin and Drunk Elephant offer gentle exfoliation for textured skin.

If you’re looking for a cleaner, fragrance-free alternative with carefully curated actives, then Nécessaire’s body lotion might be the one for you. For luxury and fragrance, Le Labo brings a rich sensory experience, while Nivea is great for deeply moisturising very dry skin. Your ideal body lotion will depend on your skin’s type and needs, as well as personal preferences, whether that’s lightweight hydration, exfoliation, soothing relief from irritation, a sensorial experience, no fragrance or functionality.

For me personally, I enjoy a subtle fragrance in my body care products, but I also prefer clean alternatives with natural active ingredients that provide lasting hydration while exfoliating my skin and delicate textures that are easy to work into the skin and allow me to comfortably slip into bed without staining my sheets and without that sticky feeling.