Which Should You Use Body Cream or Body Lotion?

Walk down the skincare aisle and you're bound to see the terms lotion, cream, emollient, and moisturizer used almost interchangeably. But if your skin is dry, oily, or prone to irritation, understanding the real difference between body cream and body lotion can help you make a smarter and more effective choice.

Here’s how to tell them apart and how to pick the right one for your skin type, your routine, and the season.

What’s the Main Difference Between Cream and Lotion?

It all comes down to texture and water content.

• Creams have more oil and less water, making them thicker and more hydrating.

• Lotions have more water and less oil, so they’re lighter, spread more easily, and absorb faster.

Creams typically have a 50/50 oil and water ratio, while lotions have a higher water content, which makes them easier to apply over large areas.

When to Use Body Cream

Creams are best for:

• Very dry or cracked skin

• Cold, windy weather

• Areas that need deep hydration, like hands, feet, elbows, and knees

• Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

• Nighttime routines, when heavier moisturizers can soak in fully

They form a thicker barrier on the skin to lock in moisture and are often the go-to in winter months or for aging skin that naturally retains less hydration.

When to Use Body Lotion

Lotions are ideal for:

• Normal to oily skin

• Mild dryness

• Warm or humid weather

• Larger, hairier areas of the body like arms, legs, or back

• People who dislike heavy or greasy products

Because they absorb more quickly, lotions are often easier to layer with makeup or sunscreen, making them a good choice for morning skincare routines.

Best Moisturizer for Your Skin Type

Dry Skin:
Reach for rich creams or ointments. Look for ingredients like shea butter, petrolatum, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or lanolin. Apply at least twice daily or more if needed, especially after washing hands or showering.

Oily Skin:
Use a lightweight lotion or gel. Choose formulas labeled oil-free or noncomedogenic (won’t clog pores).

Combination Skin:
You may need to treat different areas differently. Use a heavier cream on dry areas, like cheeks or elbows, and a lighter lotion on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) or other oily zones.

By Body Area: What to Use Where

• Hands: Choose thick creams in tubes, especially after washing. Look for fragrance-free, dye-free options with petrolatum or mineral oil.

• Face: Go lighter unless your skin is extremely dry. Lotions are great for daytime; creams are best for mature or moisture-depleted skin.

• Scalp or Hairy Areas: Lotions work better here they're easier to spread and absorb quickly without leaving residue.

• Feet and Elbows: Creams or even ointments work best for rough, thickened skin.

Barrier Creams vs Moisturizers

Barrier creams aren’t the same as traditional moisturizers. They’re designed to shield the skin from irritants and moisture loss and are commonly used for:

• Hand dermatitis

• Diaper rash

• Eczema or extremely dry skin

They form a protective film on the skin and can last through gentle washing.

Skin Conditions That May Benefit from Creams or Lotions

Eczema:
Choose fragrance-free creams or ointments that contain ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, petrolatum, or shea butter to relieve itching and reduce flare-ups.

Psoriasis:
Moisturizers can help lock in hydration and reduce scaling and redness when used after bathing. Talk to your dermatologist for personalized recommendations.

Acne-Prone Skin:
Use a noncomedogenic, oil-free moisturizer. This helps prevent skin from overproducing oil due to dryness from acne treatments.

Quick Tip: Don’t Use on Broken Skin

Avoid applying creams or lotions directly to open wounds or broken skin unless directed by a healthcare provider. These products are intended for intact skin and may cause irritation or interfere with healing.

The Bottom Line

Both body creams and lotions can help hydrate and protect your skin, but choosing the right one depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and environment. As a general rule:

• Use creams for dry, mature, or winter skin

• Use lotions for normal to oily, sensitive, or summer skin

Choosing the right product can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.

If this guide helped you pick the right moisturizer, share it or subscribe to our newsletter for more skin health insights.