When to use body lotion for softer, smoother skin

Body lotion is a must-have product for soft, hydrated and smooth skin. Whether you're dealing with ashy elbows, dehydrated feet, or rough patches all over your body, applying moisturizer is key. For best results, it is important to apply body lotion correctly and at the right time. Here, Dr. Michael Kaminer, Boston-based board certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant, explains everything you need to know about applying body lotion. And just in case you need a body lotion resupply, we've also rounded up a few of our favorite products.

Best time to apply body lotion

Apply lotion after shower

According to Dr. Kaminer, it is best to apply body lotion immediately after a shower. “Your skin has the most moisture when it is moist, and most moisturizers work best when the skin is already hydrated,” he says. Dr. Kaminer says that after a shower, the water quickly evaporates from the skin, causing the skin to become dry. The best way to retain moisture is to apply lotion immediately after a shower, while the skin is still slightly damp.

Apply pre-workout lotion

If you're going to be exercising outdoors, prep your skin with a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer. If the weather is cold or the air is dry, this can help reduce the dryness you may experience after a workout.

Apply aftershave lotion

In addition to removing unwanted body hair, shaving also removes the top layer of skin cells, just like exfoliating. Apply body lotion or moisturizer after shaving to help protect exposed skin from dryness and to soothe irritation after shaving.

Apply lotion before bed

Moisture is drawn out of the skin when we sleep, so it's important to apply body lotion right before bed. Plus, it's always nice to have soft and smooth skin when you slip into the sheets.

Apply lotion after washing and disinfecting hands

To restore moisture and prevent irritation and chapping, be sure to apply hand cream immediately after washing or apply hand sanitizer.

Apply lotion after exfoliation

Moisturizing is essential after exfoliating or using a body scrub in the shower. This will help soothe the top layer of skin and strengthen the moisture barrier.

The best body lotions according to our editors

Continue scrolling through our favorite body lotion formulas, including a choice for sensitive skin, a dessert-scented option, and more. 

The best body lotion for sensitive skin

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lotion Daily Repair Hydrating Lotion

This lipid replenishing lotion contains soothing thermal water, moisturizing shea butter, glycerin and niacinamide. It provides all-day hydration for normal, dry and sensitive skin.

The best body lotion for all skin types

Body Cream Kiehl's

Revitalize very dry skin with this rich cream infused with nourishing shea butter and cocoa butter. Emollient texture leaves skin soft, smooth and hydrated without greasy residue. You can choose from several sizes, including this 33.8 fl oz refill pack.

Best body lotion for rough skin

CeraVe SA lotion for rough and uneven skin

If you have rough, flaky, or psoriasis-prone skin, this moisturizer is great for your daily routine. It is formulated with salicylic acid, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid and vitamin D to exfoliate and hydrate and restore the skin's water barrier.

Body lotion with the most pleasant smell

Carol's Daughter Macaroon Shea Soufleé

Cover your skin with this incredibly luxurious almond oil body moisturizer that smells like sweet macaroons with hints of vanilla and marzipan. It has a whipped texture that absorbs quickly and leaves skin soft and smooth.

Best multi purpose body lotion

lano everywhere cream tube

Made with milk, vitamin E and lanolin, this thick balsamic cream can be applied to various areas of the body - hands, elbows, forearms, legs, face, palms, feet and more - to hydrate the skin. . The formula consists of 98.4% natural ingredients.