Skin needs more than a quick fix, and the right body lotion delivers real, visible results, whether it’s winter dryness or summer sun. After all, 70% of US households reach for body lotion regularly, making it a staple for happier skin. But how do experts find the best?
What Makes a Lotion “Best”?
How Expert Tests Work
Testers use high-tech skin hydration meters to track how well a lotion moisturises, both right after application and several hours later. Lab scientists review thousands of data points to choose winners, and real users with every skin type score texture, scent, and spreadability.
The Latest Ingredients Trending in 2025
Ingredient lists are changing. Collagen, shea butter, plant-based oils, and peptides are all at the top of search rankings this year, reflecting what people want for smoother, firmer skin. Searches for “collagen body lotion” alone have jumped 68% year over year, and TikTok videos on the topic have racked up nearly 77 million views.
Top Trending Ingredients in Body Lotions
- Collagen
- Shea butter
- Hyaluronic acid
- Niacinamide
- Plant-based oils
- Peptides
- Vitamin C
- Ceramides
- Pomegranate extract
- Baobab oil
Best Body Lotions Tested
| rand & Product | Description |
| Rodan + Fields: Hand & Body Collection | Rodan + Fields is renowned for science-backed skincare, and their Hand & Body collection continues this legacy with deeply hydrating, clinically-proven formulas. Options like Active Hydration Body Replenish and ESSENTIALS Daily Body Moisturiser target dryness, itchiness, and sensitivity using proprietary blends such as RFp2 peptides and essential ceramides. Free from sulphates and fragrances, these lotions are suitable for sensitive or irritated skin and help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. They absorb quickly, leaving skin velvety and soothed for hours. Users report significant relief from redness and discomfort, as well as visibly smoother, healthier skin. Dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic, Rodan + Fields lotions deliver premium moisture without greasiness, making them a top choice for anyone seeking all-day comfort and skin renewal. |
| Nécessaire The Body Lotion | This award-winning moisturiser combines five peptides, 2.5% niacinamide, and facial-grade oils and omegas to deliver lasting hydration and improve skin firmness without any sticky or greasy residue. Hypoallergenic and pH-optimized, it’s fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly, visibly plumps skin, and provides up to 48 hours of moisture. Many testers praise its plush feel and conditioning effect, noting that skin feels nourished and healthy after use. |
| Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion | Enriched with amino acids, ceramide-3, and urea, Eucerin’s formula binds deep moisture and enhances the skin’s natural exfoliation process. It offers intensive hydration for up to 48 hours and is fragrance- and dye-free—ideal for dry, sensitive, or reactive skin. Dermatologists recommend it for those dealing with frequent flaking or eczema due to its barrier-strengthening properties. |
| Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion | Formulated for hyper-sensitive skin, Vanicream is free of dyes, fragrance, parabens, and botanicals. It provides thorough, gentle hydration and is ideal for daily use on delicate or allergy-prone skin. Users note that it’s effective for managing conditions like eczema and chronic dryness. |
| La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Cream | A favorite among dermatologists, this lotion features shea butter, glycerin, and the brand’s patented prebiotic thermal water for rapid relief of severe dryness. It’s especially effective for barrier repair in dry, itchy, or atopic skin conditions, making it a staple for family use. |
| CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | With a robust blend of ceramides and hyaluronic acid, CeraVe’s formula replenishes and maintains the skin barrier. It’s recommended for normal to very dry skin and is both fragrance-free and non-irritating. It soaks in quickly, providing lasting comfort and smoothness for all ages. |
| Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion | This unscented, oat-enriched lotion calms irritation and restores moisture to parched skin. Shea butter adds richness, while Aveeno’s unique colloidal oatmeal formula helps soothe flare-ups and itchiness. Trusted for its gentle efficacy, Aveeno is a top pick for sensitive skin types. |
| Fenty Skin Butta Drop Hydrating Body Milk | Fenty merges nourishing tropical oils, shea butter, and glycerin in a lush, rapid-absorbing lotion that leaves skin glowy and deeply hydrated. Light fragrances and a non-greasy feel make it ideal for everyday use, and its vegan formula is a hit for fans of luxurious body care. |
| Kiehl’s Creme de Corps | This rich body butter features cocoa butter, squalane, and beta-carotene to create the ultimate smoothing, restorative lotion. Especially favored in winter, Kiehl’s renowned formula delivers long-term softness without tackiness, making it a perennial favourite for dry, rough skin. |
| EOS Shea Better 24H Moisture Body Lotion | This affordable favourite combines shea butter, oils, and vitamin E for intensive hydration. Its lightweight, whipped texture absorbs in seconds, delivering velvety, soft skin with no greasy feel. Popular for daily use and widely praised for its value and results. |
| Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion | With pure cocoa butter and Vaseline jelly, this formula leaves skin radiant and deeply moisturized. It’s a fast-absorbing classic that provides relief for dry, dull skin and remains a top choice due to its versatile performance and sweet scent. |
| Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Lotion | Palmer’s creamy lotion softens skin and evens tone with natural cocoa butter and vitamin E. It’s loved for its rich texture and lasting moisture, perfect for post-shower application and repairing rough areas like elbows and knees. |
| Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter | This luxurious, fragrance-infused body butter uses argan oil, shea butter, and natural extracts to firm, plump, and hydrate the skin. Its light texture melts in for a silky finish, favoured by those looking for spa-level softness all day. |
| Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream | Iconic for its caffeine-rich guaraná and cupuaçu butter blend, Bum Bum Cream promotes visible firmness, plumping, and smoothing for all skin types. The addictive scent and fast results make it a trending favourite worldwide. |
| Olay Vitamin C Body Lotion | Olay’s radiance-boosting lotion combines vitamin C and B3 to brighten, replenish, and hydrate, improving skin texture and luminosity. It’s a great budget-friendly pick for those seeking a daily glow. |
| Trader Joe’s Brazilian Nut Body Butter | With a blend of brazilian nut, coconut oil, and shea butter, this affordable cream rivals many luxury formulas for deep, restorative hydration and a smooth, radiant finish. |
| Naturium Bio-Lipid Restoring Body Lotion | Naturium offers a peptide-rich, unscented lotion packed with ceramides and facial-grade moisturizers. It’s ideal for compromised barriers and sensitive skin, giving long-lasting, comfortable moisture without irritation, and is quickly gaining cult status. |
| Hempz Original Herbal Moisturizing Body Lotion | This plant-based lotion uses hemp seed oil, vitamins, and antioxidants for light, nourishing hydration. Its fresh scent and unique ingredients win praise from those seeking natural alternatives. |
| Nivea Creme Soft Moisturizing Body Cream | Renowned for deep, all-day hydration, Nivea’s classic formula with almond oil and glycerin leaves skin supple, soothed, and glowing. Its rich emollient blend is especially favoured for winter care. |
| Jergens Original Scent Dry Skin Moisturizer | Known for its cherry almond fragrance and fast-acting hydrate-restore formula, Jergens is a nostalgic staple that keeps skin feeling fresh and smooth for hours. |
| Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion | This gentle, oat-based formula is perfect for everyday use, relieving tightness and dryness with fast-absorbing, soothing hydration at an accessible price point. |
| Aquaphor Healing Ointment | Aquaphor’s petrolatum-based balm heals extremely dry skin and soothes irritation, forming a protective barrier ideal for cracked, chafed, or post-procedure skin. |
| Megababe Thigh Rescue Lotion | Formulated for anti-chafe protection and fast absorption, Megababe uses pomegranate and citrus to leave skin fresh, hydrated, and friction-free. Fans praise its versatility and effectiveness. |
| CeraVe Intensive Moisturizing Lotion | This variant features increased ceramide concentration for extra dry or compromised skin, providing round-the-clock comfort and repair while absorbing quickly. |
| La Roche-Posay Lipikar Urea Body Lotion | Urea and shea butter combine in this targeted formula for rough, scaly areas, resulting in visibly smoother skin and improved barrier function without irritation. |
| Bath & Body Works Ultra Shea Body Cream | This popular cream offers seasonal scents and ultra-rich hydration with shea butter and coconut oil, leaving skin soft and delicately fragranced. |
| Lubriderm Advanced Therapy | Designed for extra-dry skin, Lubriderm uses pro-vitamin B5 and skin-essential lipids for deep replenishment, helping to restore radiance and elasticity. |
| Cetaphil Restoring Lotion | Blending niacinamide, vitamin E, and ceramides, Cetaphil provides thorough, gentle nourishment and quickly relieves tight, itchy skin. Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive use. |
| Bliss Body Butter | This spa-inspired favorite fuses shea and coconut butters with a luxurious scent for soft, glowing skin—perfect for indulgence and everyday moisture. |
| Osea Undaria Algae Body Butter | Osea’s vegan formula leverages algae and whipped shea for maximum hydration and a plumping effect, loved for its green, clean ingredients and ethic. |
| Skinfix Resurface+ AHA Renewing Body Cream | This advanced cream uses glycolic and lactic acid to exfoliate, smooth, and deeply hydrate, making it a go-to for rough texture and brightening dull skin. |
2025 Body Lotion Trends
What’s Changed This Year
- Collagen is everywhere: Monthly searches over 318,000, and consumers now want anti-aging benefits even in everyday lotions.
- Sustainability matters: More demand for lotions without microplastics or harsh chemicals.
- Barrier repair: Hypochlorous acid and ketoconazole appear in more formulas for sensitive skin and skin barrier support.
- Ingredient transparency: Labels increasingly highlight pH balance and allergens, answering shopper concerns directly.
What Users Look For in 2025
- Fast absorption
- Lightweight feel
- Mild or neutral scent
- Ingredient transparency
- Results that last all day
- Cruelty-free and eco-friendly formulas
Men and women both want skin that feels healthy, not sticky or greasy. Lab data shows the best lotions keep skin hydrated for 6+ hours and increase moisture by as much as 56% .
Real Users: What Actually Works?
Try testing a lotion for at least a week. Lab winners are chosen based on feedback from hundreds of real users, not just scientists. Top lotions blend comfort, noticeable hydration, and ingredients proven to deliver results.
Expert-Approved Choices (Ranked)
- Lotion with ceramides and glycerin: boosts hydration, is gentle on sensitive skin.
- Fast-absorbing coconut oil lotion: softens, smooths, and smells pleasant without being overpowering.
- Collagen and peptide-infused lotions: help strengthen skin and improve elasticity.
- Plant-based options: shea butter, baobab oil, and pomegranate extract are popular for their naturally nourishing qualities.
Latest 2025 News
- The global body lotion market is expected to reach over $190.9 billion by 2030, fueled by increased spending, demand for premium ingredients, and updated safety standards.
- Collagen-rich lotions are leading sales, reflecting a massive consumer shift toward anti-aging and barrier-repair products.
- Sustainability in skincare is front and center, with eco-friendly packaging and cruelty-free testing becoming the new norm in 2025.
