The 15 Best Body Oils That Soften And Moisturize Dry Skin In 2024
Packed with the goodness of skin essentials for healthy and glowing skin.
Expertise: Cosmetic Dermatology
Experience: 7 years
Dr. Schwarzburg is a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine in New York City. He is an Ivy League school graduate with 7 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and regenerative medicine.H... more
Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Aditi NaskarMA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 5 years
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She i... more
Arshiya SyedaBA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma
Expertise: Beauty & Lifestyle, Health & Wellness
Experience: 7 years
Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articl... more
If body oil is not a part of your regular skincare routine, you should start using one immediately. The best body oil gives your skin the kind of moisturization and nourishment that moisturizers can’t. It is helpful for those who have redness, itching, and flaky skin and give them a healthy glow. Though dry skin is seasonal for some of you, many deal with dry skin concerns throughout the year. Besides using a good moisturizer, start using body oil. Read further to check out our round-up of the 15 highest-rated body oils.
In This Article
15 Best Body Oils For Soft And Smooth Skin – 2024
1. Best Dermatologist Tested:Neutrogena Body Oil Light Sesame Formula
Image: Neutrogena This is a lightweight body oil that gets absorbed quickly. The sesame oil formula provides deep nourishment to dry and dehydrated skin and replenishes essential moisture without making your skin feel heavy. It imparts a sheer glow to your skin, and the soothing and subtle fragrance refreshes your senses. Multiple reviewers have also recommended this product after noticing visible results. If you have oily skin and are looking for a lightweight formula, you can try this oil. This video of a tester’s experience will give you a better insight into the product.
Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine, says, “If you have oily skin, don’t be afraid to moisturize. Just try to avoid oily moisturizers and stick to something light.”
Pros
- Dermatologist tested
- Replenishing formula
- Non-greasy
- Non-sticky
- Lightweight
- Radiance-boosting
- Quickly absorbed
Cons
- Contains parabens
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 4,346 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
2. Best Petrolatum-Free:Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil
Image: Burt's Bees The Lemon & Vitamin E Body Oil by Burt’s Bees has a refreshing citrus scent. It is infused with sweet almond oil, vitamin E, and lemon oil that revitalize your skin and awaken your senses. Its intensely nourishing formula is made with 100% natural oils and helps to condition your skin and keep it soft and smooth. You can apply the oil directly to damp skin or add two capfuls of it to warm bath water and soak in it.
Note: If you are allergic to nuts, avoid this oil.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Petrolatum-free
- SLS-free
- 100% natural oils
- Refreshing citrus fragrance
Cons
None
Pro Tip3. Best Organic Body Oil:The Honest Co. Organic Body Oil
Image: The Honest Company If you prefer organic products over commercial ones, check out this organic body oil by The Honest Co. It is formulated with more than 95% organic oils and is a blend of tamanu, jojoba, olive, avocado, and sunflower oils. This oil is extremely gentle and is suitable for sensitive skin and can be used on infants too. It also deeply conditions the skin and can be used every day. The blend of natural oils in this product helps maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance and keeps it hydrated and soft.
Pros
- Certified organic (USDA certified)
- Lightweight
- Naturally derived ingredients
- Mineral oil-free
- Paraben-free
- No synthetic fragrances
- Dye-free
- Silicone-free
- PEG-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for adults and infants
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 327 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Neutrogena Body Oil Light Sesame Formula Best Dermatologist Tested | Burt's Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil Best Petrolatum-Free | The Honest Co Organic Body Oil Best Organic Body Oil | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9.17 x 2.28 x 2.28 inches | 1.7 x 1.7 x 4.2 inches | 1.5 x 1.5 x 6 inches |
| Weight | 8.5 Ounces | 4 Ounces | 4.8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 4,346 | 438 | 327 |
| Price | $21.79 | - | $10.99 |
4. Best For All Skin Types:SheaMoisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil
Image: Sheamoisture
The Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil is a skin therapy oil that provides everyday hydration to your skin. It is lightweight and gets absorbed fast, without causing stickiness or greasiness on your skin and has garnered positive reviews online. It contains acacia senegal, virgin coconut oil, coconut milk, and a blend of other oils. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used as a bath or after-shower oil.
Dr. Schwarzburg, a leading authority in the field of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser medicine, says, “If you have sensitive skin, try to stick to unscented products, as many scented products tend to irritate the skin.”
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Quickly absorbed
- Lightweight
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Strong smell
- Watery consistency
Caution5. Best For Dry Skin:L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil
Image: Patrick Ta
This body oil contains 50% almond oil and a blend of other oils like Muscat rose bush oil, camelina seed oil, and carrot oil. It is rich in omega 3, 6, and 9, and unsaturated fatty acids and essential vitamins. The antioxidants protect your skin from damage and keep it soft and hydrated. This rich but lightweight body oil is ideal for normal to dry skin, receiving numerous positive reviews. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of a tester’s experience of using this product.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Fast absorption
- Pleasant fragrance
- Non-greasy
- Ideal for use during pregnancy
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
6. Best Cruelty-Free:Eminence Apricot Body Oil
Image: Eminence
This is an ultra-hydrating blend of an assortment of essential oils that rejuvenates your skin and senses. This apricot oil contains a blend of grape seed, sea buckthorn, pomegranate seed, and jojoba oils. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and E that help to soften the skin and preserve its elasticity and suppleness. This skin-softening product also contains a BioComplex with Coenzyme Q10 and Alpha Lipoic acid that improves the appearance of wrinkles.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Pleasant fragrance
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 249 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
7. Best Mineral Oil-Free:Everyday Oil Mainstay Blend
Image: Everyday Oil
The Mainstay Blend by Everyday Oil is a unisex skin care oil that is absorbed quickly and imparts a dewy glow. It is a blend of cold-pressed plant oils and can be used on the face and the body. The blend also contains steam-distilled essential oils that hydrate the skin and maintain the natural moisture balance. It contains coconut, argan, castor, jojoba oils, lavender, clary sage, and geranium essential oils. It is suitable for acne-prone and mature skin. Watch this video for a thorough understanding of the reviewer’s experience with the product.
Note: This product contains essential oils. If you are allergic to essential oils, avoid this product.
Pros
- 100% organic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
- Suitable for acne-prone and mature skin
Cons
None
8. Best Vegan:Herbivore Jasmine Glowing Hydration Body Oil
Image: Herbivore Botanicals
This hydrating body oil contains the precious Jasmine Sambac oil and a blend of other natural botanical oils. It has an intoxicating floral scent and treats skin issues like dryness and dullness. This oil sinks deep into the skin and nourishes it with antioxidants and vitamins. It contains camellia flower oil that increases skin’s elasticity and imparts a glow. The toning and tightening properties of grapeseed oil revitalize the skin from within.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- No artificial preservatives
- No artificial fragrances
- No artificial colors
No artificial fillers
Cons
- Expensive for the quantity
9. Best For Hydration:Rodin Olio Lusso Luxury Body Oil
Image: Rodin
This luxury body oil is a blend of carefully selected and nutrient-rich botanical oils. It contains a mix of jasmine, jojoba, sweet almond, apricot kernel oil, evening primrose oil, Arnica Montana flower extract, and Argania Spinosa kernel oils. It has a golden hue and a sweet jasmine fragrance. If you have stubborn dry patches, applying this oil can keep your skin moisturized and soft. It contains essential fatty acids to rejuvenate your skin and keep it glowing.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Contains organic ingredients
- Provides intensive moisturization
- Chemical-free
Cons
- Strong fragrance
10. Best Dye-Free:Tata Harper Revitalizing Body Oil
Image: Tata Harper
This revitalizing body oil is packed with vitamins and antioxidants that address skin issues like dryness, wrinkles, fine lines, and dullness. It is made with a combination of selected ingredients that meet high-quality standards like camellia oil, evening primrose oil, and various essential nutrients. It claims to improve the skin texture by revitalizing it. It is free of toxic chemicals and synthetic fillers.
Pros
- No synthetic chemicals
- Dye-free
- Paraben-free
- No harmful chemicals
- GMO-free
- Sulfate-free
- No fillers
- Quickly absorbed
Cons
None
"This body oil has become a part of my daily skin care routine. It has a perfect consistency that does not suffocate my skin. I like its pleasant fragrance that does not trigger my sensitive nose. It helps me achieve smoother skin with reduced fine lines."
11. Avène Eau Thermale Skin Care Oil
Image: Eau Thermale Avene This antioxidant-rich oil gets absorbed into your skin easily and provides lasting hydration. It makes your skin smooth and silky. The best part is that you can also use this oil to nourish your face and hair. This product combines plant-based oils (camelina oil, safflower oil, and shea butter) and thermal spring water to protect the skin barrier. You can also spray it on the dry ends of your hair to keep it moisturized.
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- No harmful chemicals
- Non-irritating
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
None
12. Best Residue-Free Body Oil:Kiehl’s Creme de Corps Nourishing Dry Body Oil
Image: Kiehl's
This dry body oil is incredibly lightweight and has a rich and nourishing formula. It contains grape seed oil and squalane – a botanical lipid derived from olives. These ingredients get absorbed quickly and help to replenish the natural moisture barrier of your skin. It is rich in vitamin E that nourishes the skin from inside. This oil has a smooth texture and does not leave any residue on the skin. It makes your skin hydrated but dry-to-touch.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Non-greasy
- Dry-to-touch formula
- Lightweight
- Quickly absorbed
- No residue
Cons
- Strong fragrance
13. Best De-Stressing Body Oil:Aromatherapy Associates De-stress Body Oil
Image: Aromatherapy Associates
This body oil is meant for therapy and helps minimize aches and pains. It is infused with therapeutic ingredients like Arnica Montana flower extract, rosemary, and ginger. Massaging the body with this oil promotes blood circulation that helps to revive tired and overused muscles. It also has skin nourishing properties and keeps the skin glowing and smooth.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Vegan
- SLS-free
- Nut-free
Cons
None
14. Rahua Body Oil
Image: Rahua
This product contains potent oils cultivated in the Amazon rainforest and is extremely nourishing and effective. Its fast-absorbing, lightweight and deeply hydrating formula is rich in antioxidants and has healing properties. It is a restorative oil and contains omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids, along with antioxidants, carotenoids, and vitamin C and E that repair, heal, and moisturize your dry skin.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- No harmful chemicals
- Vegan
- Non-toxic
- Lightweight
Cons
None
15. Best Scar Minimizing:Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil
Image: Pursoni If you’re looking for a body oil for dry skin that repairs scars, stretch marks, and even out uneven skin tone, look no further than Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil. This unique formula is clinically proven that dermatologists all over recommend to reduce scarring from pregnancy, surgery, and injury. It feels lightweight and doesn’t clog your pores. It is enriched with vitamin E and anti-inflammatory essential oils like chamomile and lavender. It is a non-greasy oil that will help you maintain healthy-looking skin while providing you ultimate protection. Many reviewers have seen visible results after continuous use and highly recommend this product. So, get ready for smooth, beautiful skin with Bio-Oil Skincare Oil!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Vitamin-rich formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Suits all skin types
- Minimizes scars and blemishes
- Dermatologist approved
- Clinically proven results
Cons
- Not a pleasant fragrance
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 6,691 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
These are our top choices of body oils. Before you pick one, remember that not all skin types are the same. What works for someone may not work for you at all. Here are a few tips to help you select the right body oil for your skin type and concern.
How To Pick A Body Oil For Your Skin Type
If you have dry skin, look for oils rich in omega fatty acids and oleic acids. These oils have a thick consistency and are excellent moisturizers. Look for ingredients like avocado, apricot kernel, hazelnut, olive, and camellia seed oils.
If you have normal skin, do not use oils that are heavy and thick. Jojoba and marula oils work well for normal skin.
If you have oily and acne-prone skin, choose body oils with linoleic acid. Go for oils that have a light consistency and get absorbed quickly. Check for ingredients like evening primrose, safflower, hemp seed, watermelon seed, and grape seed oils.
If you have combination skin, marula oil will work like magic. You can also use any lightweight oil that we suggested for oily and acne-prone skin.
If you have sensitive skin, use oils with omega-6 fatty acids. You can use body oils that contain blackcurrant, borage, and evening primrose oils.
You might be wondering why you need to use body oils when you have rich creams and body lotions? Compared to lotions and creams, body oils are more protective. Check out the other benefits of using a body oil in the following section.
Benefits Of Using A Body Oil
- Body oils are formulated to lock in moisture for a long time and keep the skin hydrated. With age, the skin’s ability to retain moisture declines. Thus, even after using rich body lotion and cream, your skin might feel dry after a few hours, which is why it is important to find long-lasting products.
- Body oils have been used for therapeutic benefits. Massaging the skin with oils improves blood circulation, overall health, and reduces damage caused by free radicals.
- Body oils get absorbed easily and help improve the appearance of scars and marks. If your skin is properly hydrated, the scars (including stretch marks) improve if not disappear totally.
- Body oils are often scented and help to rejuvenate your senses.
Your skin cannot reap the complete benefits of body oils unless you use them properly. Find out the right way to apply body oil.
How To Use Body Oil
- Take a warm shower and exfoliate your skin. Body oils are absorbed well into damp skin.
- Rub the oil between your palms and massage generously on your body.
- Start with a little bit of oil and build on gradually.
Never apply oil on dry skin as dry skin cannot absorb the oil and moisture. You may use it as a bath oil. Add a tablespoon of oil to your bath water and let your skin soak it up. Also, do not forget to do a patch test if you are using any body oil for the first time. This will help prevent irritation and allergic reactions.
Infographic: Dos And Don’ts Of Using Body Oils For Dry Skin
Body oils are an excellent choice for hydrating and soothing dry skin. They also help repair your skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. However, you must know the right way to use them to achieve soft, supple, and healthy skin. Check out the infographic below to learn more about the common mistakes to be avoided while using these oils.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Body oils are perfect for giving your dry skin the much-needed boost of moisture without any stickiness. They provide deep hydration and nourishment to achieve supple, soft skin in no time. Pick your favorite oil from the list above and fall in love with your skin. Consider our top three recommendations like the Neutrogena Body Oil Light Sesame Formula that is ideal for all skin types, the Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil that helps moisturize dehydrated skin, and The Honest Co. Organic Body Oil that is suitable for daily use. Opt for products with positive reviews from skincare enthusiasts and choose a formula that is ideal for your skin.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author, is a certified skin care coach who loves using her knowledge in this domain to bring you products that keep your skin well-nourished and moisturized. She has gone through hundreds of online user feedback and compiled this list of the foremost body oils for dry skin. These body oils are dermatologically tested, non-greasy, non-sticky and replenish the essential moisture levels of your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is body oil better than body lotions?
Body oil is best for locking moisture, while lotions penetrate the skin better as they are water-based and deliver ingredients to your skin in a better way. If you are looking for hydration and moisturization, oil is better.
When should I apply body oil?
Always apply body oil after a shower and on damp skin.
What is the best body oil to use after a shower?
The Neutrogena Body Oil, a dermatologist-approved body oil, soothes your skin entirely and gives you a non-sticky experience. It is best for post-shower application.
Which body oil is the best for dry skin at night?
Use the L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil for overnight treatment if you have dry skin. It is an antioxidant-rich body oil that helps you restore damaged skin and give it proper hydration overnight.
Do you apply body oil before or after lotion?
Check which one has a thinner consistency and apply it first, followed by the thicker one. You can also mix them together before use.
How long does body oil last on the skin?
Body oils last on your skin for 4-5 hours. You can heat up the oil and massage it deeply to make it last longer on your skin.
