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We updated this article in October 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.
There are two types of people in the world: those who happily slather on a thick, creamy lotion for dry skin after hopping out of the shower and those who couldn’t think of a more tortuous task. (So. much. rubbing.) Luckily for the latter group, the best body oils exist to add moisture and hydrate skin without that creamy texture associated with moisturizers.
Body oils are super lightweight and help you maintain supple skin with much less hassle. With that being said, it’s important to note that lotions and oils aren’t necessarily created equal—although they both moisturize the body, they do it in slightly different ways. “Body oils are made of just that—oils—while body lotions are usually an emulsion (a mixture) of oils and water together,” says Courtney Rubin, M.D., M.B.E., F.A.A.D, Harvard dermatologist and co-founder of Fig.1 Skincare. “Because body oils don’t contain water, the products themselves do not provide hydration.”
Meet the experts: Courtney Rubin, M.D., M.B.E., F.A.A.D, Harvard dermatologist and co-founder of Fig.1 Skincare; Jessica Houston, double-licensed esthetician and lead esthetician at BEAUTYBEEZ; Celebrity makeup artist Alexis Oakley; and Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, California.
But the best body oils do so much more than add moisture. Many include powerhouse ingredients to help nourish skin and others even include SPF for sun protection (though nothing beats the best sunscreens). In fact, Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, California, says products with sunscreen in them are “dermatologist’s choice,” so we’re inclined to name them ours, too.
Our top picks
Now that you’re well informed on the body oil basics, here are some top picks—including loads of our experts’ favorites.
1
Best Body Oil Overall
Supergoop! Glow Oil SPF 50 PA++++
Pros
- SPF 50
- Moisturizing Ingredients
- Leaves skin glowing
Cons
- Some users report getting sunburnt despite SPF 50
“A dermatologist’s obvious choice, this oil is moisturizing (includes a blend of several oils such as grapeseed, soybean, coconut, and shea),” explains Dr. Luke. “And [it] provides sun protection (SPF 50) for up to 80 minutes, leaving skin with a nice overall glow.”
Size | 1.0 oz/ 30 mL |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Marigold Extract, Grape Seed Oil |
Skin type | All skin types |
2
Best Body Oil for Stretchmarks
Body Oil
Pros
- Great on stretchmarks
- Available in multiple sizes
- Great on scars
Cons
- Some users say it can leave a slight greasy feeling
Chances are you’ve probably heard the praises of Bio-Oil before, but it’s only fair that this cult favorite product makes the cut. Driven by sunflower oil and vitamins A and E, this formula is not only moisturizing, but many shoppers say it’s made stretch marks and scars disappear.
Size | 6.7 oz |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Sunflower oil, Vitamins A and E |
Skin type | All skin types |
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Pros
- Can apply to hair and face
- Non-greasy
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Some users dislike the strong scent
This luxurious, multi-use product recommended by Dr. Rubin is perfect for those who fear the greasiness of a traditional oil. Its dry oil formula sinks in instantly, making it ideal for the body, face, and hair.
Size | 4.8 oz |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Vitamin E, botanical oils |
Skin type | Dry, dull skin |
4
Best Splurge-Worthy Body Oil
Revitalizing Anti-Aging Body Oil
Pros
- Loads of nutrients and antioxidants
- Luxe packaging
- Revitalizes skin
Cons
- Pricey
Celebrity makeup artist Alexis Oakley likes this one because it contains evening primrose oil, camellia oil, and an Estate Grown Beauty Complex of 11 vitamins, 18 nutrients, and six minerals to nourish and moisturize the skin. Plus, the bottle is super luxurious.
Size | 4.1 oz/ 125 mL |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Camellia Oil |
Skin type | Dry, dull skin |
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5
Best Body Oil for Sensitive Skin
The Honest Company Organic Body Oil
Now 24% Off
Pros
- Affordable
- Made for babies
- Certified organic
Cons
- Some users report issues with dispenser
Sunflower oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil make this one a favorite for Oakley, especially because the latter two oils deliver essential fatty acids. It’s also certified organic and made for babies, so it’s extra gentle.
Size | 4 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Jojoba oil, coconut oil, avocado oil |
Skin type | Sensitive |
Pros
- Reduces appearance of stretch marks
- Firms skin
- Moisturizes
Cons
- Pricey
This is a pick from Dr. Rubin that contains a blend of acai, babassu, and passion fruit oils along with organic undaria algae to help firm and moisturize the skin, and even reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
Size | 5 oz. |
---|---|
Key ingredients | Undaria Algae, Acai, babassu, passion fruit oil |
Skin type | All skin types |
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7
Best Drugstore Body Oil
Neutrogena Body Oil Light Sesame Formula, Dry Skin Moisturizer & Hydrating Body Massage Oil, for Radiant & Healthy Looking Glow, Nourishing Bath Oil for Sheer Moisture, 16 fl. oz7
Now 26% Off
Pros
- Won’t clog pores
- Affordable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some users dislike scent
This affordable pick is a go-to for Houston. Its main oil is sesame, which is safe to use over body breakouts, and it’s super lightweight so it won’t clog pores.
Size | 16 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Sesame oil |
Skin type | Dry skin |
8
Best Body Oil You Can Use on Hair
Tgin Argan Replenishing and Hair Body Serum
Pros
- Can be used on hair
- Nourishing ingredients
- Great for dry skin
Cons
- Some users dislike scent
Coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, peach kernel oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E make this formula a nourishing dream for dry skin and hair. Houston loves it, and it also contains hibiscus flower petals (which you can see floating in the bottle), giving it a light floral scent.
Size | 4 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil |
Skin Type | Best on dry skin and curly hair |
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9
Best Body Oil for Dry Skin
Eau Thermale Avène Body Skin Care Oil
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
- Soothes skin
- Sheer
Cons
- Some users dislike Safflower scent
Dr. Luke loves this body oil for a variety of reasons. “Specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin this oil is moisturizing and contains shea, camelina, and safflower oils and Avene’s Thermal Spring water which helps soothe the skin and has been extensively studied,” she says.
Size | 3.3 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Shae oil, Thermal Spring water |
Skin type | Dry, sensitive |
10
Best Body Oil Serum
Gardenia Tea Antioxidant Body Serum
Pros
- Helps firm skin
- Defends against environmental stressors
- Exfoliates
Cons
- Scented oil may not be suitable for sensitive skin
Another of Dr. Rubin’s faves, this innovative body serum is made with naturally exfoliating pumpkin seed oil, nourishing sea buckthorn oil, and antileukine 6, an antioxidant-rich sea botanical that smooths, firms, and helps defend against environmental stressors.
Size | 4 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Antioxidants, Essential Oils, Green Tea |
Skin type | Dry, normal skin |
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Pros
- Luxe packaging
- Can be applied all over body
- Restores skin
Cons
- Some users report issues with dropper leaking
This chic body oil, recommended by Oakley, contains sweet almond and hazelnut oils that are rich in omegas 6, 7 and 9, delivering crucial antioxidants and vitamins that restore skin to a healthy state.
Size | 3.4 oz |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Sweet almond and hazelnut oils |
Skin type | Dry and normal skin |
Pros
- 8 oz. of product
- Works in shower
- Soothes muscles
Cons
- Some users dislike scent
Dr. Luke recommends this body oil for those looking for a massage oil. “I love that Sheamoisture has a wide variety of body/massage oils that are formulated with amazing ingredients that are moisturizing and soothing. The Olive and Green Tea product smells great and can be used in the bath and/or as a massage oil to soothe sore, tired muscles,” she says.
Size | 8 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Olive and green tea |
Skin type | All skin types |
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13
Best Body Oil That Brightens
By Rosie Jane Lake Everyday Body Oil
Now 25% Off
Pros
- Brightens skin
- Vanilla, Sandalwood, and Neroli scented
- Smoothes skin
Cons
- Some users dislike scent
A blend of olive oil, coconut oil, and rosehip seed oil complete this moisturizing, smoothing, and brightening formula recommended by Houston. It comes in various subtle scents, but she prefers “Lake,” which carries notes of vanilla, sandalwood, and neroli.
Size | 4 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | olive oil, coconut oil, and rosehip seed oil |
Skin type | Dry skin |
Pros
- Unscented
- Great for sensitive skin
- Hydrates
Cons
- Not for use on face
Houston enjoys this formula for its organic ingredients and the fact that it’s fragrance-free, which makes it great for sensitive skin. Organic coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, and castor oil leave a moisturized, dewy glow after every application.
Size | 1 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Organic coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil, jojoba oil |
Skin type | Sensitive skin |
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15
Best Anti-Aging Face Oil
Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Anti Aging Night Face Oil
Pros
- Uses retinol
- Soothes skin
- Stimulates collagen production
Cons
- Not for use on body
- Pricey
“Vitamin A derivatives or retinoids are one of my favorite anti-aging ingredients and included in this family is retinol, a form of retinoid that is readily available over-the-counter,” explains Dr. Luke. “Retinoids/retinols have well-established anti-aging benefits and can stimulate collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.” The cult-favorite brand’s face oil is made with retinol in addition to “soothing agents such as chamomile, and avocado and chia seed oils, rich in essential nutrients such as omega 3s and vitamins A, C, and E,” she says.
Size | 0.5 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Retinol, chamomile, avocado oil |
Skin type | All skin types |
16
Best Oil for Dark Spots
Absolute Joi Skin Refining Night Oil With Retinol
Now 37% Off
Pros
- Brightens dark spots
- Contains nourishing oils
- Made for melanin-rich skin
Cons
- Only for use on the face
“This oil blend contains jojoba, moringa, rosehip, argan, evening primrose, and sunflower,” Dr. Luke says. “As well as antioxidants Vitamin C and E, along with the retinol and can be helpful for those with mild acne and/or dark spots.”
Size | 30 mL |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Retinol, jojoba, moringa, rosehip oils |
Skin type | Dry, oily, or combination skin |
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Pros
- Supports skin’s natural moisture
- Great for dry skin
- Non-sticky formula
Cons
- Some users dislike packaging
This beautiful oil’s three main ingredients are camellia flower oil, which increases elasticity and gives skin luminous glow, grapeseed oil, and jasmine sambac oil (hence the name), which supports skin’s natural moisture levels, according to the product's description.
Size | 4 oz/ 118 mL |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Camellia flower oil, grapeseed oil |
Skin type | All skin types |
Pros
- Subtle shimmer makes skin glow
- Available in three shades
- Nourishing ingredients
Cons
- Some users said the product dries out skin
If you’re looking to glow a little extra than normal, perhaps on a beach vacation or poolside, reach for this shimmering liquid by Patrick Ta. It comes in three opulent shades and contains squalene and olive oils, as well as vitamin E and vitamin C to prevent free radical damage.
Size | 1 oz/ 30 mL |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Stabilized Vitamin C, Vitamin E & Magnolia Bark Extract, Olive Oil, and Squalane |
Skin type | Normal, Dry, Combination |
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19
La Mer The Renewal Oil
Pros
- A little goes a long way
- Ingredient list
Cons
- Pricey
We know, this one’s quite the splurge. But, La Mer has a reputation for being worth the dent in your bank account. Plus, as a body oil, a little goes a long way—so this one should last you quite some time. Chock full of seed oils (jajoba, meadowfoam, and grapeseed are just a few that make the ingredients list), this oil will turn your post-shower routine into one of pure luxury.
Size | 1 oz/ 30 mL |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | jajoba, meadowfoam, and grapeseed oils |
Skin type | Normal, Dry, Combination, and Oily |
Pros
- Hydrating
- Great for after showering
- No apparent scent
Cons
- Some users say you need a lot of product to see results
Another favorite of Dr. Luke, this body oil is from singer Alicia Key’s skincare line. “Formulated with marula, baobob, and jojoba oil, this antioxidant- and nutrient-rich blend provides moisture to the skin (jojoba oil is similar in structure to our body’s natural oil, sebum),” says Dr. Luke. “This is great right after showering and can be applied while skin is still slightly damp.”
Size | 1.6 oz. |
---|---|
Highlighted ingredients | Marula, boabob, jojoba oil |
Skin type | Dry skin |
Kayla Blanton
Kayla Blanton is a freelance writer-editor who covers health, nutrition, and lifestyle topics for various publications including Prevention, Everyday Health, SELF, People, and more. She’s always open to conversations about fueling up with flavorful dishes, busting beauty standards, and finding new, gentle ways to care for our bodies. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ohio University with specializations in women, gender, and sexuality studies and public health, and is a born-and-raised midwesterner living in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and two spoiled kitties.
Emily Goldman
Deputy Editor
Emily Goldman is the deputy editor at Prevention. She’s spent her career editing and writing about health, wellness, beauty, fashion, and food for Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, Bridal Guide, Good Housekeeping, and more. She’s loved all things health and wellness since starting her bi-weekly podcast Pancreas Pals—a series all about the highs and lows of living life with type 1 diabetes. When not podcasting, she spends most of her time curled up with a good book or watching a period piece on BBC.