When your extremities are dry and flaky, slathering on lotion or moisturizer doesn't matter. Both will moisturize your skin, making it feel softer and plumper. If that's the case, why are they called two different things? According to dermatologists, there are some key differences between these two body care products.
Chances are you already use one or two of these skin care products every day as part of your beauty routine. Both can be applied to the skin from the neck down to keep you moisturized from head to toe, and as far as the end result goes, they're interchangeable. "Both body lotions and moisturizers serve similar functions, providing hydration, moisturization and soothing for dry skin," says Dr. Rafal Pielek, an expert in skin biology and skin care formulations. "They also contain similar ingredients."
Choosing one over the other often comes down to personal preference, Pilek said. Read on for the subtle differences between body creams and body lotions so you know which one is best for your regimen.
What is body lotion?
Think of moisturizer as your daily, all-over moisturizer. "It's used to provide [moisturization], soften the skin, and make it feel smoother," says Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist in MDCS Dermatology. Lotions typically contain humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, skin-soothing emollients, and occlusive ingredients that absorb into the skin. Many products also contain ingredients that soothe and strengthen the skin barrier, such as vitamin E and ceramides, adds Dr. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Dermatology and Laser Group By.
"Lotions contain humectants because they help provide moisture, while emollients can make your skin feel smooth, fill in cracks and crevices, and reduce rough texture," Camp tells Bustle. "Occlusive ingredients lock moisture in the skin by limiting the amount of water that evaporates from the skin's surface."
Generally speaking, moisturizers are formulated with more water than oil-based moisturizers, so they are lighter, have a smooth texture, and absorb relatively quickly. Use moisturizer whenever you want to revive dry skin, relieve itching and flaking, or protect and restore the skin barrier, especially after showering. "Washing with soap and water removes some of the skin's natural oils, leaving the skin feeling smooth and able to retain moisture," Kemp explains. "Applying lotion after bathing can help restore some of the oil that was removed, leaving your skin feeling soft."
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What is a body cream?
If your skin is particularly dry, then you'll want to apply a moisturizer. Just like lotion, moisturizer soothes the skin and locks in moisture, but because of its thicker consistency, it can provide extra hydration. "Moisturizers contain a higher concentration of oils, which helps them lock in moisture in the skin more effectively," Kemp says.
In the winter, when your skin is dry from the cold, you may be craving a moisturizer. They also come in handy when you need more intense treatment for chapped skin, such as chapped hands or cracked heels. Akhavan says some key ingredients to look for include hydrating ceramides, fatty lipids, shea butter and plant-based oils.
Dr. Elaine F. Kung, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Future Bright Dermatology, says creams can sometimes feel a little greasy, which may be due to substances like petroleum jelly in the formula. This ingredient acts as a semi-occlusive agent, helping to protect and seal moisture.
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Body lotion comparison. body cream
The main difference between creams and lotions is their consistency. "Moisturisers are thicker than lotions because they contain a higher concentration of oils," Kemp says. "They also usually come in jars because of the thicker consistency, whereas lotions usually come in pump bottles."
Akhavan adds that lotions tend to absorb faster, while creams feel heavier and take longer to absorb. Therefore, he recommends that people with extremely dry skin choose body lotions, as the thickness of the cream helps lock in more moisture. "Body lotions are lightweight and better suited for oily skin," he says.
Long story; Doctor? You can't go wrong with either product, but you may prefer one over the other due to their texture.
Research references:
Chen, H. J. (2022). Water retention of glycerol solutions of different concentrations: a comparative study. Science Rep doi:10.1038/s41598-022-13452-2.
Held, E. (1999). Effects of long-term moisturizer use on skin hydration, barrier function, and sensitivity to irritants. Acta Derm Venereol. Number: 10.1080/000155599750011705.
Zhukan, morning. (2021). Advantages of hyaluronic acid and its combination with other bioactive ingredients in cosmeceuticals. molecular. doi:10.3390/molecules26154429.
source:
Dr. Rafal Pielek, expert in skin biology and skin care formulations
Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, MDCS Dermatology Double Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, owner of Dermatology and Laser Group
Dr. Elaine F. Kung, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bright Future Dermatology
