Why you should swap your moisturiser for a body oil

Your legs will thank you

4 min read

April 14, 2025 - 10:30AM

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With the countdown to spring officially on, it's time to turn your attention to the skincare products you slather on below your face.

If your arms and legs haven’t seen the light of day in months, it’s a safe bet they’re probably looking a bit worse for wear.

The combination of cold weather, central heating and just general winter neglect leave our limbs largely devoid of moisture - and closely resembling a reptile.

Now we know, by the time you’ve adequately cleaned yourself and taken care of your face, it’s a big ask to cover a surface area roughly 10 times the size of your head with anything – which is exactly where oil comes in.

Not only is it quick to apply, but it’s usually free of all those other ingredients found in moisturisers, plus, it leaves zero white marks on your clothes. Tick, tick and tick.

What’s the main difference between a body oil and a body lotion?

“Body oil is primarily composed of oils that provide deeper hydration to the skin. It is usually lightweight, non-greasy and easily absorbed,” explains Dr Yalda Jamali, a cosmetic doctor at All Saints Clinic.

Body lotion, on the other hand, is commonly water-based and contains a combination of water, oils, and emulsifiers. It has a thicker consistency compared to body oil and may include additional ingredients like humectants, vitamins, antioxidants and chemical exfoliators.

While the choice between oil and lotion depends on personal preference, skin type and concern, the benefits certainly stack up when it comes to slathering on an oil.

The benefits of using a body oil

The main benefit of using a body oil is that it can penetrate the skin on a deeper level than body lotion generally can.

“Body oils provide deep hydration, great texture and glow to the skin. Many body oil products on the market contain essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that nourish and improve the health of the skin,” says Dr Jamali.

In Ayurvedic medicine, there are a number of plant and nut oils used in massage, including coconut, oil, caster, almond and jojoba. They can also contain medicated herbs where the oil will act as a carrier to disperse the herbs to the deeper layers of the epidermis.

“Ayurvedically speaking, sesame oil is the only oil that can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin and has a multitude of benefits including improving blood circulation, reducing joint pain and inflammation, relieving stress, strengthening the nervous system, promoting sleep and overall wellbeing,” explains Alanna Quin, founder of The Ayu, which includes a range of body oils.

You can mix your oil and lotion together for a double hit of hydration. Image: Pexels

How to apply body oil for hydration (and relaxation)

Even though you’re no doubt counting the minutes until you need to either get out the door in the morning or can climb into bed at night, your best bet is to apply an oil straight after your shower. Why? Because applying oil to damp skin helps with absorption and locking in moisture.

“Usually what I recommend is to use a body oil immediately after showering after quickly patting the skin semi-dry. I also advise warming up the oil between your hands prior to applying,” Dr Jamali says.

If you’re battling seriously scaly legs, you can apply a thin layer of body lotion on top or mix your body lotion and oil together before applying.

Quin, in contrast, recommends applying oil before you jump in the shower, turning its use into more of a self-care moment.

“Self-massage, otherwise known as abhyanga, is a daily revered practice in Ayurveda. It is usually performed before showering in the morning, and oil should be warmed prior to applying to the skin for maximum benefits,” she explains.

“This allows toxins to be drawn to the surface of the skin, which can then be washed off during the showering process. The way in which it is applied is based on your dosha, so a Vata would use long, slow rhythmical strokes paying attention to the joints, and a Pitta would use softer, gentler strokes with moderate speed. A Kapha would use more energetic, quicker strokes to invigorate.”

Applying oil to damp skin helps with absorption and locking in moisture. Image: Pexels

What skin types should avoid using body oil?

“Those who are acne-prone or have oily skin should use body oils sparingly, as some oils can potentially clog pores and exacerbate breakouts,” advises Dr Jamali.

Eczema prone or those with sensitive skin should also be cautious as certain oils may cause irritation or allergic reactions and you should avoid using body oil on sunburned or irritated skin. Of course, always read the label if you have a known allergy and patch test if it’s your first time using a product.