12 best body moisturisers to banish dry winter skin
Much like our favourite face creams, the best body moisturisers have one core mission: to keep your skin soft, supple and glowy. But many body lotions are also supercharged with skincare actives to tackle additional concerns – like dullness, loose skin, keratosis pilaris, and eczema-related dryness and itching. Put simply, there's a body cream out there that's guaranteed to tick all the necessary boxes for your skin. If only you know where to look.
“Body moisturisers are needed to maintain the skin's hydration, prevent dryness, and protect it from environmental damage," explains consultant dermatologist, Dr Derrick Phillips. "They also help to improve skin texture, elasticity, and the overall appearance.”
From lightweight everyday lotions that absorb quickly, to rich whipped body butters that smell divine and leave you looking radiant, we promise that every single body moisturiser in this edit is well and truly worth the hype.
We’ve road-tested the formulas, sifted through the standouts, and only included the products that truly made a difference to our skin. Plus, we've also quizzed leading dermatologists on why you should use them, when you should apply them, and what ingredients to look out for. Ahead? Everything you need to know.
Best Black Friday Body Moisturiser Deals:
- NEOM Great Day Magnesium Body Butter 30ml, WAS £11 NOW £8.25
- Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, WAS £21 NOW £16.80
- Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Glycolic Body Lotion, WAS £30 NOW £21
- Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada Vitamin Infused Body Lotion, WAS £32 NOW £24
Meet the experts
- Dr Derrick Phillips, consultant dermatologist.
- Dr Munir Somji, dermatologist, aesthetic doctor and hair restoration surgeon.
- Dr Sindhu Siddiqi, GP and aesthetic practitioner at No Filter Clinic.
How I tested the best body moisturisers
As a beauty writer who has tried more lotions and potions than I care to admit (my bathroom shelf is permanently at capacity), I put every body moisturiser in this edit through a genuinely rigorous road test. That meant assessing texture, absorbency and scent, but also paying close attention to how my skin looked and felt hours - and days - later. Did it actually soften dryness? Did it give me that post-shower glow without feeling greasy? Did it soothe the redness on my arms or and hydrate my stubborn dry patches? I wore them under clothes, after evening baths, post-workout and on freezing commutes, all in the name of finding formulas that genuinely deserve a place on your body-care roster.
Why you can trust me
I'm Georgia Brown, a freelance beauty writer and lifestyle journalist. I’ve spent years reviewing beauty products for titles including HELLO!, Marie Claire, Glamour and Women’s Health, which means I’ve tested more body creams than most people will encounter in a lifetime. I know the difference between a formula that talks a big game and one that actually delivers - and I’m brutally honest about both. I’m not swayed by pretty packaging or fleeting TikTok hype; I’m interested in products that work, feel great and fit seamlessly into real people’s routines. If something makes it into this edit, it’s because it earned its spot.
Understandably, I'm only one person with one set of skin concerns. To make sure ever product in this edit went through a worthy trial against different skin types, if the formula wasn't tested by me, it was used by a member of the Glamour beauty team.
Discover our edit of the best body moisturisers for soft & supple skin all-over.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream
- Size: 240ml.
- Consistency: Rich and buttery cream.
- Key ingredients: Guaraná, cupuaçu butter, açaí oil, and coconut oil.
- Fragrance: Cheriosa '62 - pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla.
- Pros: Gorgeous gourmand scent; Absorbs surprisingly quickly; Feels really luxurious; Leaves skin smooth and radiant.
- Cons: Pretty pricey; Some say it's not hydrating enough for dry skin.
It's viral, it's fun to say, (it's pronounced “boom boom,” FYI), and it's won beauty addicts over with its super hydrating and rich texture. Infused with caffeine-rich guaraná to stimulate blood flow, cupuaçu butter to lock in moisture and help restore skin’s elasticity, and the antioxidant, açaí oil, it's a visibly tightening and smoothing formula – that also happens to smell amazing.
“With its addictive salted caramel and pistachio scent, and the gorgeous way it leaves my skin smooth, firm, and subtly shimmery, this cream feels made for indulgent date nights, and balmy evenings on holiday,” says freelance commerce writer, Georgia Lockstone. “If my legs are out, you can guarantee that they'll be lathered in this lovely moisturiser."
NEOM Great Day Magnesium Body Butter
- Size: 200ml
- Consistency: Glossy, smooth and milky
- Key ingredients: Magnesium, shea butter, mango butter, coconut oil
- Fragrance: Fresh, citrusy, uplifting (mint + mandarin)
- Pros: Gorgeous scent; indulgent texture; mood-boosting; very nourishing
- Cons: Fragrance might not be suitable for sensitive skin
“I use coconut oil in my skincare routine anyway, so I'm always drawn to a product that contains it,” says Georgia Brown. "The blend of shea and mango seed butter makes it deeply softening, while the added magnesium can help reduce inflammation if you have sore muscles. And the scent? Bright, citrusy and instantly uplifting - the kind of fragrance that feels like a spa product.
“As someone who tests a lot of body lotions, I love when a formula feels both pampering and practical. This one does exactly that. It gives me that silky-skin finish you want from a body butter, but without the heavy residue.”
Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada Vitamin Infused Body Lotion
- Size: 400 ml.
- Consistency: Lightweight / medium-lotion
- Key ingredients: 7-type Hyaluronic Acid blend, Brazil nut oil, cactus-pear extract, Brazilian sugar-cane extract, coconut fruit extract.
- Fragrance: The brand's signature “Cheirosa 62”
- Pros: Generous size for the price; Hydrating yet light; Absorbs quickly without greasiness; Leaves skin soft, smooth and lightly scented.
- Cons: Nothing of note!
This formula is deeply hydrating yet wonderfully weightless, packed with moisture-locking hyaluronic acids with nourishing botanical oils to leave skin feeling soft, supple and healthy - without any of the heaviness that thicker creams can sometimes give. The signature Cheirosa 62 scent adds a warm, sunny sweetness that feels uplifting rather than overpowering
“For me, the generous 400 ml size is a real standout: a little goes a long way here, making the value feel like an excellent option for teens still building their skincare routines,” says Georgia Brown. “My 17-year-old niece loves Sol de Janeiro, but the price point doesn't always make sense for her younger skin. I think this formula gives you all the benefits of Brazilian Bum Bum Cream for less.”
Rare Beauty Find Comfort Hydrating Body Lotion
- Size: 250ml.
- Consistency: Lightweight lotion.
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, peach flower extract, and ashwaganda.
- Fragrance: Lemon zest, jasmine, and vetiver.
- Pros: Non-greasy yet hydrating formula; Gorgeous aromatherapy scent; Leaves skin soft and smooth.
- Cons: Bottle doesn't come with a pump.
As well as providing your skin with twenty-four hours of hydration, this glorious Rare Beauty lotion promises to give you the healthy glow that you deserve. Combining vitamins and antioxidants like niacinamide, peach flower extract, and ashwaganda – a natural “anti-stressor” – it's visibly firming and brightening.
It's a silky-smooth cream that absorbs surprisingly quickly, and it has a really calming and cosy scent that'll have you feeling like yoiu've stepped straight into a spa.
Nécessaire The Body Lotion Fragrance-Free
- Size: 200ml.
- Consistency: Classic lotion.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin E, niacinamide, omega-6, and omega-9.
- Fragrance: None.
- Pros: Nourishing multi-vitamin formula; Non-sticky or greasy; Completely clean and vegan.
- Cons: Nothing we can see.
Applying this body moisturiser is basically like taking a multi-vitmanin – but specifically for your skin. Infused with brightening niacinamide, peptides that help stimulate collagen production, and plant oils rich in vitamins C and E, and omegas 6 and 9, it's guaranteed to leave you with stronger skin.
Best of all, it's completely clean, vegan, and cruelty-free – and it's even been approved by dermatologists for use on sensitive skin, thanks to its fragrance-free and non-greasy formula.
Shop all the best deals on your favourite body moisturisers with these Sephora discount codes.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm Ap+M Moisturiser For Dry Skin
- Size: 400ml.
- Consistency: Rich balmy cream.
- Key ingredients: Thermal spring water, glycerin, shea butter, and niacinamide.
- Fragrance: None.
- Pros: Soothes eczema and sensitive skin; Fragrance-free; Hydrating and repairing formula.
- Cons: Can be a little heavy for daytime use.
If you're someone with sensitive or irritated skin, look no further, because this body moisturiser is the one to get. Its gentle and hydrating formula is specially designed to soothe skin, relieving feelings of discomfort or itchiness and easing the urge to scratch.
It also promises to keep skin hydrated for up to 48 hours and is perfectly suitable for eczema-prone skin and even babies – as long as they are older than three months. So, it's a bathroom cupboard staple that'll suit the whole family. After something else? Shop the best eczema creams here.
Aveeno Daily Moisturising Body Lotion
- Size: 300ml.
- Consistency: Classic lotion.
- Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal and shea butter.
- Fragrance: None.
- Pros: Affordable; Nourishes skin barrier; Dermatologist-approved for sensitive skin.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
This nourishing lotion and long-time cult favourite is loved by many for its sensitive-skin-friendly formula. It's formulated with naturally derived prebiotic colloidal oatmeal, helping to preserve the skin's natural microbiome for healthy-looking and more resilient skin. Suitable for both normal and very dry skin types, this body moisturiser promises to deliver 24-hour hydration and can be used on eczema-prone skin.
“I suffer with eczema and flares pop up all over my body, and this is my favourite moisturiser to keep my skin soothed and hydrated between steroid cream applications and beyond," says Humeara Mohamed, GLAMOUR's Freelance Contributor.
Save big when shopping for the best body moisturisers with these Amazon discount codes.
OUAI HAIRCARE Body Creme - St Barts
- Size: 212ml.
- Consistency: Rich whipped cream.
- Key ingredients: Cupuaçu butter, squalane, and coconut oil.
- Fragrance: St Barts – dragonfruit, orange blossom, tuberose, and baltic amber.
- Pros: Feels really luxurious; Amazing scent; Not too greasy.
- Cons: Nothing of note.
Seriously buttery and rich, this velvety cream is a must for after any ‘everything shower’ – the perfect post-shave or exfoliation cream for leaving your skin seriously nourished. Best of all, it boasts the most delicious exotic scent.
Bursting with velvety cupuaçu butter grown in Brazil, squalane derived from olives that soothes the skin while eliminating dryness and dullness, and softening coconut oil, expect to be left with seriously hydrated skin – that's got a gorgeous healthy glow.
Q+A Hyaluronic Acid Post-Shower Moisturiser
- Size: 250ml.
- Consistency: Light lotion.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, avocado and hazelnut oils, and prebiotics.
- Fragrance: Fresh apple.
- Pros: Fast-absorbing; Non-greasy formula; Locks in hydration.
- Cons: Might not be moisturising enough for some.
Wet skin body moisturisers come in so handy on those days when you're short on time – and are also ideal if you don't fancy massaging a cream into your naked body in the middle of a communal changing room after a morning gym session before work.
Boasting a 98% natural formula, this time-saving Q+A one has been formulated with deeply nourishing avocado and hazelnut oils, skin-loving and oh-so-soothing prebiotics for a soothing moisture boost, and seriously hydrating hyaluronic acid!
- Size: 177ml.
- Consistency: Rich cream.
- Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, urea, and ceramides.
- Fragrance: None.
- Pros: Gently exfoliating formula; Smooths roughness and bumps; Protects the skin barrier.
- Cons: Might be a little too strong on very sensitive skin; Stings when used after shaving.
Designed to gently exfoliate rough and bumpy skin, this body cream has been developed with dermatologists – and is a great option for anyone dealing with keratosis pilaris. Working in tandem, salicylic acid and lactic acid get to work gently exfoliating, while hyaluronic acid and urea help with retaining the skin's natural moisture.
As well as leaving your skin lovely and smooth, it's also been formulated with patented MVE Technology that releases skin nourishing ingredients for up to 24 hours. And it also contains three essential ceramides to help protect the skin's natural barrier.
Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 10% Urea Lotion
- Size: 250ml.
- Consistency: Light lotion.
- Key ingredients: 10% urea and cermaides.
- Fragrance: None.
- Pros: Designed specifically for very dry skin; Nourishes the skin barrier; Reduces skin itchiness and flaking.
- Cons: Can leave the skin a little sticky.
Ideal for extreme dryness, this lotion is clinically proven to provide your skin with 7x more moisture after just one use. It's rich in barrier-strengthening ceramides, natural moisturisers, and – most importantly – a hefty serving of 10% urea, which deeply hydrates the skin, while also providing very gentle exfoliation.
Thanks to its exfoliating properties, it's ideal for tackling patches of uneven skin texture and intense dryness and flaking. Plus, it's also recommended by many dermatologists for tackling keratosis pilaris.
Naturium Bio-Lipid Restoring Body Lotion
- Size: 414ml.
- Consistency: Silky cream.
- Key ingredients: Omega fatty acids, shea butter, B vitamins, and sodium PCA.
- Fragrance: None.
- Pros: Supports skin barrier; Leaves skin soft and supple; Feels luxe and silky.
- Cons: Literally nothing.
You know that frustratingly tight feeling you get when your skin's too dry? This will take care of that in a flash, leaving skin feeling smooth and supple instead. Brimming with B vitamins, shea butter and omega fatty acids to care for the skin barrier, this lotion softens the skin and draws in moisture for all-day hydration. It's also vegan and free from parabens, gluten, or fragrance. Pair with their body oil cleanser for the ultimate Naturium experience.
“I have dry skin, but this is nourishing and comforting without feeling greasy," says Humeara Mohamed, GLAMOUR's Freelance Contributor. After something else? Shop more of the best barrier repair creams here.
Palmer's® Coconut Oil Formula™ Coconut Hydrate Daily Body Lotion
- Size: 250ml.
- Consistency: Medium lotion.
- Key ingredients: Extra virgin coconut oil, and green coffee extract.
- Fragrance: Coconut.
- Pros: Affordable; Really nourishing; Smells really lovely; Absorbs surprisingly quickly.
- Cons: Nothing of note!
Deeply hydrating and softening, coconut oil is one of the top ingredients to have in your body cream – and this Palmer's one is packed with the stuff. It's formulated with radiance-boosting raw coffee extract, and raw coconut oil that's rich in lipids – which play an essential role in boosting barrier function and improving the skin's elasticity.
“I love a cream that feels instantly nourishing on my skin, but can't handle having to wait ages for it to dry before I can get dressed,” says Georgia Lockstone. “That's why I adore this Palmer's lotion – because it really locks in moisture with it's heavy oil and butter blend formula, but somehow it's lightweight enough that I don't feel at all greasy afterwards.”
Your body moisturiser FAQs, answered:
How often should you apply body lotion?
“For most people, a single daily application of body moisturiser is sufficient,” explains Dr Derrick. "However, those with particularly dry skin might need benefit from reapplying at night." We'd recommend applying at the same time as your night cream so that you don't forget.
What ingredients should you look for in a body moisturiser?
A group of ingredients designed to draw water into the skin, humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, and aloe vera are definitely worth looking out for in your body moisturiser. “Hyaluronic acid helps to retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated, while glycerin draws moisture from the air into your skin," Dr Sindhu explains.
Emollients like cocoa butter, shea butter, and natural oils also play an essential role in smoothing and softening the skin. "Shea butter is rich in vitamins and fatty acids, making it excellent for nourishing and moisturising," Dr Sindhu adds. Meanwhile, occlusives like petrolatum help form a protective barrier to protect against water loss – making them a great pick for especially dry and eczema-prone skin.
Finally, look out for active ingredients that'll help target your specific skin concerns. For example, niacinamide can really help with uneven skin tone, while ceramides help strengthen and repair the skin barrier. "If you’re prone to acne on the body, look for moisturisers containing BHAs or AHAs like salicylic acid or lactic acid, which help to exfoliate the skin and unblock pores,” suggests Dr Sindhu. For your face, shop the best face exfoliators.
What are the benefits of using a body moisturiser?
As well as helping your skin look and feel its absolute best, the best body moisturisers play a crucial role in preventing dryness and tightness, supporting the skin's protective barrier, and supporting recovery after shaving or sun exposure. And – of course – they also leave your whole body seriously soft and supple.
“Daily outdoor exposure can also result in damage or act as a stimulus for skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema," Dr Munir adds. "It is therefore especially important to moisturise and protect the skin barrier.”
What's the best way to apply body lotion?
“Body moisturisers should be applied immediately after baths and showers,” explains Dr Derrick – especially as showering in hot water can actually strip your skin of a lot of its natural oils. Ideally, apply your chosen cream or lotion on damp skin to help lock-in more moisture. You can apply body cream after exfoliating to allow for better absorption of active ingredients, notes Dr Munir.
Can you use your body lotion on your face?
Only if it specifically says so on the product label. Otherwise, likely not – as many lotions contain heavy ingredients and fragrances that would likely irritate the more delicate skin on your face.
Is it okay to use fragranced formulas?
Dr Munir recommends avoiding fragranced formulas and essential oils for fear of irritation and their potential to compromise the skin barrier. Dr Sindhu, on the other hand, says to proceed with caution.
“It is generally okay to use fragranced formulas unless you have sensitive skin or are allergic to certain fragrances,” she notes. “If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free moisturisers to avoid any potential irritation.”
Looking to revolutionise your body care and skincare routine? Be sure to check out our guides on the best hand creams, best shower gels and body washes, best hyaluronic acid serum, best vitamin C serums, best fake tans and the best body scrubs and exfoliators.
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