Derm DMs: Can You Use Body Lotion on Your Face?

We love multi-tasking and hybrid skin-care products, but some are simply meant to be used for their intended purpose, and their intended purpose only. Recently, we were curious to find out whether body lotion falls in the latter category, so we consulted with Dr. Caren Waintraub, a board-certified dermatologist from New York City. Read on for her thoughts on applying body lotion on the face, plus our picks for all-in-one moisturizers. 

Is It OK to Use Body Lotion on the Face?

Most, but not all, body lotions are not designed for use on the face. “Body lotions and creams are designed for areas of the skin that need more help in maintaining moisture, and because the face has many more oil glands than the body, they can leave the face feeling oily,” says Dr. Waintraub. If you have oily skin, instead opt for a lightweight mattifying moisturizer like the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat or the Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer.

Are There Any Exceptions?

There are some products, however, that are designed to be used on both the face and body, typically on dry and dehydrated skin. “Especially in the winter, some body creams or lotions are designed to be used to protect and soothe severely dry and cracked skin,” says Dr. Waintraub. Two all-in-one moisturizers we love are the CeraVe Healing Ointment and the SkinCeuticals Hydra Balm Moisturizer, which can be used anywhere on the face or body. Check the label to make sure the product is specifically formulated for both the face and body, though.

 Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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