It’s no secret that adding more candles to a birthday cake reduces our skin’s ability to retain moisture and produce collagen and elastin, resulting in changes in how our skin looks and feels. What are some signs that your skin’s needs are changing? Reduced elasticity and firmness, increased pigmentation problems, new sensitivities, and dryness. When this happens, it’s time to replace your old body lotion with one that will nourish and rejuvenate your skin. “For improving crepiness and wrinkles, look for products that pair vitamin C with hydrating ingredients,” says board-certified dermatologist Dennis Gross, M.D. Ceramides high in fatty acids strengthen the skin’s barrier function, while retinol promotes cellular turnover and antioxidants and peptides improve clarity and collagen production.
The InStyle team tested the most popular firming, restoring, and hydrating body lotions to see which ones lived up to the hype. We evaluated each one based on its consistency, absorption, and effectiveness. Then we chose the best body lotions based on their ability to help us play Benjamin Button and turn back the clock from top to toe.
Why We Love It: This nourishing body whip is ideal for dry, tired skin. Its rich yet spreadable consistency provides intense hydration while you sleep, leaving your skin soft, supple, and noticeably moisturized in the morning. Topical silymarin, the active ingredient in milk thistle and the hero ingredient in this lotion, has been shown in studies to inhibit enzymes that degrade the structure of the skin. Strengthening these defenses improves the elasticity, firmness, and overall appearance of aging skin. A variety of hydrators, including glycerin, shea butter, and coconut oil, keep skin smooth and soft. Our testers appreciated how quickly it absorbs without feeling sticky, making it an excellent final step in your nighttime routine.
Who It’s For: Anyone looking to elevate their body care routine with a skin-softening night cream that feels indulgent but not heavy. It’s ideal for dry areas such as the upper arms, thighs, and chest, as well as mature or aging skin that requires extra nourishment.
Worth noting: While testers raved about the hydration, some reported no immediate toning or textural changes. To achieve the toning and skin-smoothing benefits, use it consistently and over time.
Why We Love It: This body lotion is ideal for skin that requires serious moisture and repair because it provides long-lasting hydration without being greasy. Following application, our tester noticed a glossy, almost oil-like sheen on her skin, which faded as the lotion was absorbed, leaving her normally dry and cracked skin hydrated, soft, and less wrinkled-looking.
Who It’s For: Need heavy-duty hydration that isn’t scented or will leave grease stains on your clothes? This lotion is for you. If you prefer scents or lightweight lotions, this may not be your first choice.
Worth noting: Although this body lotion for aging skin is ideal for dehydrated skin, it may be too heavy to use on hot days. Consider this a night cream, applying it before going to bed and then wearing a lighter option during the day.
Jennifer, a tester with dry, cracked, and flaky skin, said, “I don’t think I would change anything about this lotion. The price point is excellent. The size is excellent. The texture is excellent. It soaked in and made my hands feel more hydrated than ever before.
Why We Love It: Lightweight and nourishing, this reasonably priced lotion applies with a “gel-like sheen” and immediately provides a deep dose of moisture without feeling heavy. This is thanks in part to Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, which helps the skin barrier retain hydration.
Who It’s For: This is a Goldilocks formula for those who want to get the most lotion and hydration for their money while also preferring a light perfume scent.
It’s worth noting that there are several variations of this extremely popular lotion. You can try the niacinamide formula, which our tester used, or the retinol and collagen formulas, both of which are beneficial for aging skin.
Jill, tester with dry crepey skin on her hands: “As I get older, and especially in the winter, I notice that my skin deteriorates. I’ve been using this for a month and my legs haven’t been dry or flaky since I started. I was quite pleasantly surprised.
