Lotions, body butters, creams – there are a lot of body moisturizing options in the market today. From those that can be used all-year-round to those that are designed for each season – and many boasting the most delicious fragrances – there really is no dearth of choices. But perhaps one of the most enduring products of all time is the body oil. Versatile and with stress-relieving properties to boot, you really can’t go wrong with it. However, as with all things, there is a way to get the most out of its benefits. Let’s take a look!
How to Use Body Oil for Radiant Skin
Follow these tips to really reap the benefits of body oils!
- If you’re using a pure oil (oils that can be applied directly to the skin) like almond, argan, coconut or olive, use it to nourish dry areas of the body whenever needed.
- If you’re using an essential oil such as vetiver, add a few drops of it to a carrier oil like almond, argan, coconut or olive, and massage it on your skin.
- If you’re lucky to have a bathtub, add your chosen type of body oil to the bathwater. It will moisturize and soften your skin while you soak.
- After showering and while your skin is still a little damp, use body oil to trap in moisture. You don’t need to use much – a little always goes a long way!
- Planning to get a massage? Make the experience even better with body oil. Not only will it make the massage process easier but it will soak deep into your skin and leave it beautifully moisturized.
- Prevent unsightly razor burn by applying body oil to your skin before shaving. It’s better than shaving cream as it locks in moisture, is a whole lot more natural, and remains on the skin even after you shave.
The Best Times to Use Body Oil
If you suffer from very dry skin, apply body oil before getting into the bath or shower. It will create a barrier between the water and your skin. Follow this up with more body oil post bath. You can also use body oil during your bath: apply it all over once you’ve rinsed and before you’ve dried off.
The Best Body Oils to Use
Before picking up a bottle of body oil, do a quick check of your skin. Is it dry or normal? Does it fluctuate depending on the season? Are you allergic to certain ingredients?
You should ask yourself what you want the body oil to achieve. Is it only for moisturizing? Do you want it to act as an aromatherapy tool as well? Do you plan to use it as a massage oil?
Once you’ve decided on your answers, it’s time to shop! Here are 5 of the best body oils to try:
Almond oil
With numerous health benefits ranging from being high in antioxidants to having the potential to control blood sugar and aid weight loss, almond oil also has the ability to moisturize the skin. Mild and soothing, it keeps skin soft by preventing water loss. What’s more, it has a high amount of vitamin E, which could help prevent sun damage and premature aging. Almond oil is also great for preventing stretchmarks. In a study of 160 women, it was found that almond oil beat other products like base cream to reduce itching and redness and prevent the spread of stretchmarks.
Vetiver oil
Vetiver oil is another top choice, thanks to its ability keep skin looking healthy and youthful. Loaded with antioxidants, it prevents environmental damage, tightens skin and moisturizes it. It nourishes skin by acting as an antimicrobial agent and preventing inflammation. It also cleanses skin and unclogs pores to prevent whiteheads and blackheads. On a side note, vetiver oil is also calming and can stimulate tired minds! Learn More: essential-oil-mandarine
Argan oil
Native to Morocco, argan oil has long been used to improve the health of skin. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it can prevent sun damage, hyperpigmentation, improve water retention, and reduce acne. Argan oil can also be used to treat several skin conditions like rosacea and psoriasis as well as bacterial and fungal infections.
Coconut oil
A highly versatile oil, coconut oil is known for its skin boosting properties. Thanks to its medium-chain fatty acids, it has antimicrobial properties that can reduce skin conditions like acne, folliculitis, and athlete’s foot. Meanwhile, the lauric acid it contains also blocks the growth of bacteria and kills propionibacterium acnes, which is responsible for causing inflammatory acne.
Olive oil
A staple in many kitchens, olive oil is great for skin as it acts as an antioxidant to protect against sun damage. It has the potential to prevent premature aging and acts as a natural moisturizer. It’s high in vitamins like A, D, E and K, which can reduce inflammation, atopic dermatitis, stretch marks and spider veins.
Give your body the love it deserves by pampering it with body oil every day. You’ll notice a marked difference in your skin quality in no time. Look for wholly natural and organic oils too, which cause far fewer reactions (if any!) than those that contain chemicals.
FAQSWhat is the best way to apply body oil?
Take a few drops and apply it all over your body. Take the time to massage it into the skin so that you’re thoroughly moisturized. You can also mix it with body lotion.
Do you use body oil before or after moisturizer?
Use body oil after moisturizer. As oil is heavier, using it before will prevent the moisturizer from penetrating your skin and hydrating it.
What is the best time to apply body oil?
The best time to apply body oil is straight after a wash or a bath, when your skin is still wet. You CAN apply it to dry skin but it won’t lock in moisture as effectively and can be trickier to massage in.
Should you put body oil on wet skin?
Apply body oil on damp – not wet – skin. If skin is too wet, you won’t be able to properly massage it in.