Body lotion is a formulation meant to be used all over the body to provide daily hydration and nourishment to the skin. Some lotions contain ingredients that help to heal or treat specific issues like dryness, loss of elasticity, acne, eczema, etc. . Body lotions are mainly designed to stop moisture from leaving the skin and/or absorb moisture from elsewhere to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and smooth.
Here are some positive aspects of body lotion:
- Rehydrates dry skin
- Improves the skin barrier
- Nourishes the skin
- Protects the skin from external microbes
- Takes care of calluses
Negative aspects of body lotion include the use of toxic ingredients that can irritate the skin and cause other significant health issues. Some of the most toxic ingredients found in body lotions and creams include fragrances, parabens, BHA, BHT, and artificial coloring.
Ingredients commonly found in body lotions include:
- Emollients: Emollient substances work to smooth, soften, and hydrate the skin. Some examples of emollients are coconut oil, jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil, sweet almond oil, olive oil, argan oil, rosehip seed oil, and avocado oil.
- Occlusives: Occlusive substances provide a physical barrier to block or seal the outer layer of skin, preventing water loss and keeping moisture locked in. Occlusives include shea butter, lanolin, beeswax, and cocoa butter.
- Humectants: Humectants draw water into the outer layer of skin. Examples of humectants include glycerin, lecithin, and propylene glycol.
- Other ingredients: Other ingredients found in body lotions include zinc oxide, white petrolatum, urea, alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic/citric/glycolic acid, and allantoin.
It is important to choose a body lotion that is free of toxic ingredients and contains nourishing and hydrating ingredients that are suitable for your skin type.
