If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re dealing with skin dryness or other concerns like redness, irritation, or cracked, itchy skin. One way to support dry skin is slathering on moisturizers like body butter or lotion. But which product is better?
The “best” moisturizing product depends on various factors, including skin type, dryness, and external stressors like the weather. We crafted an article to explore these questions to help you figure out which hydrating treatment you need.
Here, we’ll explain the differences between body lotion and body butter and answer all your questions. Keep reading to learn more about body butter and lotion.
Body Butter vs. Body Butter Lotion
There are a few similarities between body butter and lotion. They’re both moisturizers that utilize hydrating ingredients and are made for use on the body (not the face). Each formula treats dryness and other skin concerns and softens and soothes the skin, but there are a few main differences.
What’s the Difference Between Body Lotion and Body Butter?
The main differences between the moisturizers:
- Body lotion is a lightweight product that spreads smoothly and absorbs rapidly into the skin.
- Body lotion is ideal for those with oily skin and hot summer months.
- Body lotion is a great daily moisturizer, while body butter is suitable for rough patches or treatments for dry areas of skin.
- Body butter is a thicker formula and takes time to absorb into the skin.
- Ingredients for body butter are often more organic or natural, while those for body lotion can be more refined.
- Body butter is ideal for rougher, cracked, or dehydrated skin that needs intense hydration.
When to Use Body Butter
If you’re dealing with rough, dry skin, you should reach for a body butter or body cream. These thicker moisturizers are ideal for replenishing the skin’s natural oils and adding nourishment.
Folks who want a luxurious-feeling moisturizer should also opt for a body butter. The thick lotion feels more indulgent and is a nice treat during an at-home spa day.
Body butters are great for:
- Dry skin
- Sensitive skin
- Combination skin
- Deep moisture
- Treatment for rough patches
Those dealing with excessively dry skin may need to add more than a body butter to their grooming routine. Check out the American Academy of Dermatology’s derm-recommended suggestions and treatment plans for faster repair.
When to Use Body Lotion
Anyone looking for a lightweight daily moisturizer should opt for a body lotion. Because the formulas are lighter than body butters, they absorb more quickly into the skin and leave your skin hydrated without making it feel greasy or weighed down.
Body lotions are ideal moisturizers for busy people on the go, travelers, or anyone whose skin needs a little pick-me-up.
Body lotions are great for:
- Normal skin
- Combination skin
- Sensitive skin
- Travel
- Quick reapplication
Body Butter vs. Body Lotion: Which One Is Better For the Skin?
Body butter and lotion are both great for your skin. Your choice depends on personal preference and what skin concerns you’d like to treat.
- Use body lotion if you’re looking for a non-greasy daily moisturizer.
- Opt for body butter if you need an intense moisturizer for dry, cracked skin.
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter which product you use as long as you’re keeping your skin healthy and hydrated. Hydrated = happy.
There are many different ways to treat dryness and stressed skin, but a simple way is to pick a moisturizing emulsion and use it daily.
Our Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Not to toot our own horn too much—toot toot—but we have a swoon-worthy body lotion that leaves the skin feeling hydrated and alive. Blu Atlas Body Lotion is a blend of anti-aging and restorative ingredients that add much-needed moisture to the skin.
To put the health of men and women first, we ditch harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. To give your skin the soothing moisturizer it deserves, we source naturally derived ingredients to boost moisture levels and keep it locked next to the skin. Nutrient-dense ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and seaweed ensure your skin stays soaked in moisturizing ingredients without leaving the skin feeling greasy or weighed down.
While Body Lotion isn’t as thick as body butters, folks who need more intense hydration can try the jam-packed Hair & Body Oil. The effective moisturizer harnesses natural oils like sweet almond, argan, and saw palmetto to restore moisture to the skin. (You can also use it on your hair for a deep hydrating treatment.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is body butter or lotion more effective for sensitive skin?
Body butter is usually more effective for treating sensitive skin. Its intense moisturizers can reduce dry skin concerns and conditions and treat irritation. Body butters take longer to absorb into the skin, so if you need fast hydration, use a body lotion for sensitive skin.
What’s the best body lotion?
Blu Atlas Body Lotion is the best body lotion for dry, dull skin. The potent anti-aging formula revives the skin and gives it a healthy glow.
Is dry skin normal?
Yes, some studies have shown that almost a third of the population suffers from dry skin. One recent study of a German population found that 29.4% of their test group suffered from dry skin. Dry skin is normal, and it’s also easier than ever to treat.
