How to Choose a Body Lotion for Dry Skin

Quick answer

Look for a body lotion that combines nourishing plant-derived oils (like jojoba, avocado, or sunflower) with antioxidant-rich ingredients (such as green tea or oat) to deeply hydrate and restore dry skin without feeling greasy.

Step-by-step guide to choosing your body lotion

1. Check the base oils: Look for plant-derived oils like jojoba, avocado, or sunflower as the first ingredients. These mimic skin lipids and absorb deeply, unlike silicones or mineral oil which sit on the surface. Avoid lotions that list mineral oil or paraffin as the first ingredient — they can feel greasy and offer only temporary moisture.
2. Look for hydrating and soothing add-ons: Ingredients such as green tea, oat, cucumber, and blueberry provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. They help calm dry, reactive skin and prevent moisture loss. If your skin is also sensitive, prioritize oat or cucumber over fragrance-heavy options.
3. Test the texture on your skin: Apply a small amount to your forearm. A good body lotion for dry skin should feel rich but absorb within a minute, leaving skin soft not sticky. If it pills or sits on top, it may not be hydrating enough. Don’t judge a lotion by the bottle — always test the actual feel on your skin.
4. Consider your daily routine: If you shower morning and night, apply lotion to damp skin within three minutes of patting dry. A formula with both oils and antioxidants works best for twice-daily use because it doesn’t need a heavy layer. Dry skin loses moisture fastest right after washing — apply lotion while skin is still slightly damp.
5. Read the full ingredient list: Skip lotions with alcohol denat or synthetic fragrances near the top. These can strip moisture and irritate dry skin. Instead, look for glycerin or aloe as humectants paired with oils. When in doubt, fewer ingredients often means fewer irritants for dry skin.

Product spotlight

• Body Lotion - No.13 Nouvelle Vague: Formulated with organic jojoba, avocado, and sunflower oils plus antioxidant-rich green tea, cucumber, oats, and blueberry. This blend targets dry skin by deeply moisturizing and replenishing the skin barrier while soothing irritation — a complete solution in one bottle.