If you're anything like me, your post shower routine has gotten a bit more involved lately. Body care is having a moment, and honestly, I'm here for it.

But with shelves full of body lotions, body oils, body butters, and everything in between, it can get confusing fast. Do you really need all of them? Should you use lotion or oil? Both? And if you're using both, which one goes first?

I reached out to get some clarity on this, and here's what I learned about the great lotion versus oil debate.

What Does Body Lotion Actually Do?

Body lotion is lighter and easier to spread across your skin. It's designed to penetrate deeper into your skin layers for hydration from within.

Most body lotions contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which is brilliant at drawing moisture into your skin. The lighter texture means they absorb quickly without leaving that heavy, greasy feeling some products have.

This is why your skin feels immediately softer and more hydrated after applying lotion. It's actually getting moisture into those deeper layers where your skin needs it most.

If you have dry, cracked skin or you're dealing with rough patches, lotion is particularly effective at soothing and healing because it can actually penetrate and deliver hydration where it's needed.

What About Body Oil?

Body oil is heavier and sits more on the surface of your skin. It creates a protective barrier on your outer skin layer, which locks in whatever moisture is already there.

This barrier function is actually really important, especially if you live in a dry climate or it's winter and your heating is running constantly. Oil helps prevent moisture from evaporating out of your skin.

But here's the thing. if you apply oil to very dry skin on its own, you're only going to get some hydration. Oil has difficulty penetrating those deeper skin layers, so it's not as effective at actually delivering moisture into your skin.

Think of it like this. lotion brings the moisture in, oil keeps it from escaping.

So Which One Should You Use?

Honestly? It depends on your skin and what you prefer.

If you like a lightweight feel and your skin isn't extremely dry, lotion on its own might be perfect for you. Apply it right after your shower while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in the water from your shower and maximises absorption.

If you have really dry skin or you're looking for maximum hydration, using both is your best option. Apply lotion first to get that deep hydration, then layer oil on top to seal everything in.

You can also mix them together before applying if you want something in between. This gives you the penetrating hydration of lotion with the sealing properties of oil in one step.

When to Apply

Timing matters more than you might think.

The best time to apply your body lotion or oil is immediately after your shower or bath, while your skin is still damp. Not dripping wet, but not completely dry either.

Your skin is like a sponge when it's damp. It absorbs products much more effectively in this state. If you wait until you're completely dry, you've missed the optimal window for absorption.

So the routine looks like this. shower, pat your skin until it's slightly damp, then apply your lotion, oil, or both while your skin is still in that perfect receptive state.

Choosing Quality Products

Here's something important that often gets overlooked. not all body lotions and oils are created equal.

A lot of products on the market contain ingredients that aren't actually beneficial for your skin. Some can even be irritating or disruptive to your skin's natural barrier.

When you're choosing products, look for ones with clean ingredient lists. Avoid artificial fragrances if you have sensitive skin, and be cautious of products loaded with fillers and preservatives.

Your skin is your body's largest organ. What you put on it matters. Choose products that actually nourish and support your skin health, not just ones that smell nice or have pretty packaging.

What I Personally Do

I switch it up depending on the season and how my skin feels.

In summer, when humidity is higher and my skin is less dry, I usually just use a lightweight body lotion after my morning shower. It absorbs quickly and doesn't feel heavy in the heat.

In winter, when the air is drier and my skin gets more parched, I use both. Lotion first while my skin is damp, then I layer a nourishing body oil over the top to really seal in that moisture. My skin stays soft and hydrated all day.

If I'm in a rush, I'll mix a pump of oil into my lotion and apply them together. It's quicker but still gives me the benefits of both.

The Bottom Line

There's no single right answer to the lotion versus oil question. It really comes down to your skin type, your climate, the season, and your personal preference.

What matters most is that you're thinking about your skin and taking care of it. Whether you choose lotion, oil, or both, you're doing something good for your body's largest organ.

Start with what feels right for your skin. Pay attention to how it responds. And don't be afraid to adjust your routine as your needs change with the seasons or as your skin changes.

Your skin will tell you what it needs. You just have to listen.

What's your post shower routine? Are you team lotion, team oil, or team both? Share in the comments!

Disclaimer:

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dermatological advice. If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist. The views expressed are the author's own, and Gro.w is not liable for any outcomes from following the information provided.

Should You Apply Body Lotion or Oil After a Shower?