For a lighter-feeling moisturiser, start with lotion. If you enjoy a richer texture, consider body butter. Then look beyond the name: check the ingredients, directions and how your skin feels with the product you choose.
Does your current moisturiser feel heavy under your clothes, or do your shins still feel dry after using it? Those everyday clues can help you narrow the choice.
Choose a texture that fits your day
You want to moisturise and get dressed
Start by comparing lotions if you prefer a lighter feel. Think about the finish you want under a work shirt or a pair of jeans: comfortable, without a heavy layer you keep noticing. If your current lotion already gives you that and leaves your skin feeling good, there's no need to swap it simply to try something richer.
Your skin still feels dry with lotion
Put a cream on your shortlist. For dry skin, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends a cream or ointment rather than lotion. A cream is generally thicker, so it's a useful next texture to compare when your usual light lotion leaves your arms or legs feeling dry.
You enjoy a richer texture
A body butter may be a good fit. Picture when you'll reach for it: after an evening shower, for example, when you'd enjoy taking a moment over your body care. Choose one whose ingredients and directions suit your needs. You can make it your moisturising step without buying a lotion and a cream as well.
Check ingredients, fragrance and directions
A rich feel is only one part of the choice. Before buying, check these details on the exact product.
- The complete ingredient list. Look beyond the few ingredients highlighted on the front, particularly if you know something irritates your skin. Ask the brand if you can't find the full list.
- Fragrance information. For dry, sensitive skin, the AAD recommends products labelled fragrance-free. “Unscented” can mean ingredients have been added to mask a smell, so check for the wording you need on the exact product.
- Where and how to use it. Read the intended body area and application directions. For facial use, choose a product intended for your face.
Using Sea Essence Body Butter
Our directions for Sea Essence Body Butter are to apply it to slightly damp body skin after showering. Our after-shower application guide takes you through that step. If you need an ingredient or fragrance detail clarified before choosing, ask us.
Before first use: test a new product on a small area, following its directions. If it irritates, gently wash it off and stop using it. For ongoing or worsening dryness, a pharmacist or GP can help you choose an emollient. Follow your clinician's advice for a diagnosed skin condition.