The Best Time to Apply Body Lotion Because, Yes, There Is One
Body lotion is a must-have product for soft, hydrated and smooth skin. Whether you’re dealing with ashy elbows, dehydrated legs or rough patches on the body, slathering on a moisturizing cream is key. For best results, it’s important to apply your body lotion the right way and at the right time. Here, Dr. Michael Kaminer, board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant, explains everything you need to know about applying body lotion.
The Best Time to Apply Body Lotion
After a Shower
According to Dr. Kaminer, one of the best times to apply body lotion is directly after showering. “Your skin has the most moisture when it’s wet, and most moisturizers work best when skin is already hydrated,” he says. He explains that after a shower, water evaporates off your skin quickly, which can leave your skin feeling dry. The best way to seal in moisture is to apply lotion immediately after a shower while skin is still slightly damp.
Before Exercising
If you’re going to exercise outdoors, prep your skin by applying a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer first. If the weather is cold or the air is dry, this can help reduce the dryness that may occur post-workout.
After Shaving
In addition to removing unwanted body hair, shaving also removes the top layer of surface skin cells, as if you had exfoliated. To help protect newly-exposed skin from dryness, as well as to soothe any razor irritation, apply a body lotion or moisturizer after shaving.
Before Bed
Moisture is pulled out of the skin as we sleep, so applying a body lotion right before bed is key. Plus, soft and smooth skin is always a nice feeling as you slip into the sheets.
After Washing and Sanitizing Your Hands
With frequent hand washing and sanitizing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our hands have taken a beating. To help replenish moisture and prevent irritation and chapping, be sure to apply a hand cream immediately after you wash or apply hand sanitizer.
After Exfoliating
After exfoliating or using a body scrub in the shower, moisturizing is a must. This will help soothe the top layer of skin and help strengthen the moisture barrier .
How to Apply Body Lotion
STEP 1: Place a quarter-size amount of your favorite body lotion into the palm of your hand.
STEP 2: Rub the lotion between your palms for a few seconds to warm it up.
STEP 3: Use both hands to massage the lotion onto a small area of skin in gentle circular motions.
STEP 4: Repeat the above steps as needed to cover your entire body. Depending on how dry your skin feels, you can be more liberal with the amount of product you apply. Be more generous on areas with thick skin, such as your elbows or knees.
The Best Body Lotions for Every Skin Type, According to Our Editors
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lotion Daily Repair Moisturizing Lotion
This lipid-replenishing lotion is formulated with La Roche-Posay’s exclusive Prebiotic Thermal Water, shea butter, glycerin and niacinamide. The lotion works to bring all-day hydration to normal, dry and sensitive skin types.
Carol’s Daughter Almond Cookie Shea Soufflé
This moisturizer nourishes and softens the skin without the use of silicones, parabens, petroleum or mineral oil. The formula is powered by almond oil, restores softness for up to 24 hours and never leaves behind a sticky or greasy feel. It’s especially great for dry skin or for smoothing rough patches.
Lancôme Nutrix Royal Body Butter
When it comes to rich and luxurious body creams, Lancôme never disappoints. Formulated with shea butter and chestnut peptides, this body moisturizer can soothe rough or extra dry skin, increase your natural lipid production and help your skin retain moisture.
Revive extremely dry skin with this popular body butter that leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated without a greasy residue.
CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough and Bumpy Skin
If you have dry, rough, bumpy or Psoriasis-prone skin, this moisturizer is a great fit for your routine. It’s formulated with salicylic acid, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin D to exfoliate and moisturize, while also working to repair the skin’s moisture barrier.
Skin party is a soothing moisturizer that contains sweet almond oil, squalane, glycerin and antioxidants to keep your skin looking silky smooth and supple. It works to nourish the skin’s barrier to boost its natural radiance, too.
The skin on your bottom deserves some TLC during your post-shower moisturizing routine, too. Opt for this bakuchiol-infused formula that helps smooth the appearance of stretch marks and fine lines on your booty, stomach and thigh area. Bonus: the jasmine, coconut and vanilla scent is intoxicating.
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