10 Best Body Oils: Top Rated Body Oils and Natural Oils for Body Care
Body oils have surged in popularity for a good reason. These concentrated blends of nourishing ingredients deeply hydrate skin and impart a long-lasting radiance. If you’re looking for glowing skin body oil options that truly deliver, this post reveals the 10 best body oils on the market. We’ll also explore top rated body oils and natural oils for body care to help you find the perfect formula for your skin.
In addition, we’ll clarify the key differences in body oils vs lotions—a distinction that matters when choosing your ideal moisturizer. Whether you want rich hydration, a dewy glow, or lightweight feel, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best body oils out there.
Body Oils vs Lotions: Understanding the Difference
When exploring moisturizing options, it’s essential to understand the differences between body oils vs lotions. Though both hydrate, their composition and effects vary significantly.
What Are Body Oils?
Body oils are primarily made from plant-based or mineral oils. They penetrate deeply into the skin, sealing in moisture while creating a protective barrier on the surface. Many body oils contain added vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids, which support skin barrier repair and improve elasticity. According to Byrdie, these ingredients make body oils potent emollients ideal for prolonged hydration and skin nourishment.
What Are Lotions?
Lotions, in contrast, are lighter, water-based moisturizers. They contain emulsifiers to blend water and oils, along with preservatives to ensure shelf stability. Lotions absorb quickly into the skin but typically provide hydration that fades faster than oils due to their lighter texture.
Practical Differences Between Body Oils and Lotions
- Texture: Body oils have a richer, silky feel, while lotions are lighter and creamier.
- Absorption and Hydration: Oils penetrate deeper and offer longer-lasting moisture, whereas lotions absorb faster but may require reapplication.
- Skin Finish: Oils leave a radiant, dewy glow, enhancing skin’s natural luminosity. Lotions generally dry to a matte or semi-matte finish. For lightweight hydration and ease of use, some affordable options such as Neutrogena Body Oil, Light Sesame Formula provide non-greasy and fast-absorbing textures ideal for combination and normal skin.
- Additive Content: Oils often contain fewer preservatives and synthetic ingredients, appealing to those with sensitive skin or who prefer natural products. For sensitive skin care routines, building an effective, gentle regimen is crucial (read more).
Why Choose Body Oils for Glowing Skin?
If your goal is a radiant, glowing complexion, a glowing skin body oil is often preferable. Oils support the skin barrier and lock in hydration, imparting a natural sheen that lotions rarely match. Their antioxidant content also helps protect skin and enhance skin tone over time. Incorporating antioxidant-rich serums or boosters in your routine, such as The Ordinary Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum, can complement the glow from oils.
Using body oils instead of lotions is a beneficial swap for those wanting to maximize skin hydration and achieve a luminous look. Plus, many natural oils for body are gentle and nourishing for all skin types.
Why Choose Natural Oils for Body Care?
When selecting the best body oils, natural oils stand out for their skin compatibility and health benefits. Here’s why natural oils for body care deserve a place in your routine:
What Are Natural Oils?
Natural oils are botanical extracts like jojoba, argan, marula, moringa, coconut, squalane, and kukui. These oils come from plants or nuts and provide rich nourishment with minimal processing.
Benefits of Natural Oils
- High Skin Compatibility: Natural oils closely mimic the skin’s own lipids, supporting the skin barrier without clogging pores.
- Rich in Antioxidants and Essential Fatty Acids: These compounds protect skin from free radicals, boost elasticity, and restore moisture. For enhanced skin barrier support, combining natural oils with ceramides and hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine is helpful.
- Reduced Irritation Risk: Unlike some synthetic ingredients, plant-based oils are less likely to provoke sensitivity or breakouts when properly formulated. For sensitive skin, using gentle cleansers and moisturizers can reduce irritation.
- Ethical Sourcing: Many natural oils are cruelty-free and sustainably harvested, aligning with conscious beauty values.
Examples of Popular Natural Oils and Their Benefits
- Jojoba Oil: Balances skin’s natural oil production and soothes irritation.
- Argan Oil: Deeply hydrating and rich in Vitamin E, it enhances skin softness.
- Marula Oil: High in antioxidants; protects skin from environmental stressors.
- Moringa Oil: Fights oxidative damage and improves skin texture.
- Coconut Oil: Provides intense moisture and antibacterial properties.
- Squalane: Lightweight, fast-absorbing, boosts hydration without greasiness. Squalane is also a key ingredient in facial cleansers that help maintain moisture without irritation.
- Kukui Oil: Known for calming dry, inflamed skin and supporting barrier repair.
Choosing natural oils provides a gentle yet effective way to achieve healthy, glowing skin. As many of the best body oils rely on these ingredients, understanding their value helps you find products that truly support your skin’s needs.
How We Selected the 10 Best Body Oils
Selecting the 10 best body oils involved careful evaluation of multiple factors to ensure high performance and suitability for a wide audience. Our strict criteria included:
Ingredient Quality
We prioritized oils composed primarily of natural, non-toxic, and non-comedogenic ingredients. The absence of harmful additives and preservatives was key to ensure skin-friendly formulations.
Effectiveness
Each product was assessed on its ability to provide deep hydration and a radiant, glowing finish. We referenced expert dermatologists, beauty editors, and user reviews for real-world effectiveness.
Texture and Absorption
We favored lightweight, fast-absorbing oils suitable for daily use, except where formulations targeted intense moisture for very dry skin. Non-greasy textures that leave a smooth finish ranked highly.
Skin Type Suitability
Our list includes oils catering to dry, sensitive, oily, and combination skin types. We aimed for inclusive options across diverse skin needs.
Price Range
We incorporated a spectrum of affordable and luxury options. From budget-friendly drugstore gems like Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Moisturizing Body Oil to high-end spa-quality oils, we wanted everyone to find their match.
Consumer Feedback
Scent, texture, and overall user satisfaction informed our choices to highlight oils that perform well beyond ingredient lists.
In sum, our top rated body oils list balances quality, performance, and user delight, anchored by natural oils for body nourishment.
Quick Comparison Table of the 10 Best Body Oils
Use this table to quickly match your skin type and preferences with the perfect oil. It highlights key benefits and notable features alongside price ranges to help narrow your choices.
| Category | Brand + Product Name | Price Range | Key Benefits | Skin Type | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Mara Algae + Moringa Sea Sculpt Body Oil | $58-70 | Lightweight deep hydration, radiant glow | All skin types | Absorbs quickly, non-greasy |
| Best Budget Option | Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Moisturizing Body Oil | $10 – $12 | Hydrating, soothing, evens skin tone | Sensitive, dry | Drugstore classic, rich scent |
| Best for Dry Skin | Kiehl’s Creme de Corps Nourishing Dry Oil | $30 – $45 | Intense moisture, skin barrier repair | Very dry | Botanical lipids, gentle scent |
| Best for Sensitive Skin | Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil | $26 – $48 | Gentle hydration, rich antioxidants | Sensitive, reactive | Certified clean, vegan |
| Best Glow Enhancer | Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or Dry Oil | $28-$32 | Brightening, subtle shimmer, glow enhancing | Normal to oily | Multi-use, golden shimmer |
| Best Lightweight Oil | Neutrogena Body Oil, Light Sesame Formula | $10 – $16 | Non-greasy hydration | Combination, normal | Fast-absorbing, sheer scent |
| Best Organic | Evolve Organic Beauty Super Berry Body Oil | $38-$45 | 100% organic, nourishing, elasticity boosting | All skin types | Certified organic |
| Best Scented Option | Saltair Nourishing Body Oil | $22-$25 | Long-lasting scent, moisturizing | All skin types | Multiple fragrance options |
| Best Multi-Purpose | Bio-Oil Skincare Oil | $15 – $28 | Improves scars, stretch marks, hydrates | All skin types | Multi-use, dermatologist-loved |
| Best Luxury Option | Tom Ford Soleil Neige Shimmering Body Oil | $50 – $75 | Silky texture, luminous finish | Dry to normal | High-end scent, fine shimmer |
This table offers a clear overview of the best body oils and their standout features, helping you find one that perfectly suits your skin’s needs and your budget. Now, let’s dive into detailed reviews.
Detailed Product Overviews of the 10 Best Body Oils
1. Mara Algae + Moringa Sea Sculpt Body Oil
Mara’s Algae + Moringa Sea Sculpt Body Oil is a top rated body oil combining marine botanicals and potent natural oils for deep hydration and a radiant glow.
Key Ingredients:
- Algae extract: Rich in antioxidants, revitalizes skin
- Moringa oil: Protects and nourishes with vitamins
- Squalane: Lightweight moisture boost
What We Like:
- Provides intense hydration without heaviness
- Absorbs quickly, leaving skin glowy and smooth
- Clean, cruelty-free formula with botanical actives
What to Consider:
- Premium price point may not suit all budgets
- Subtle fragrance might not appeal to all
Ideal for all skin types, Mara’s oil offers long-lasting moisture and a dewy finish. It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking the best body oils packed with natural ingredients and visible glow benefits.
2. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Moisturizing Body Oil
Palmer’s classic moisturizing body oil is beloved as an affordable and effective natural oils for body formula.
Key Ingredients:
- Cocoa butter: Deeply moisturizing and soothing
- Vitamin E: Antioxidant that supports skin repair
- Mineral oil base for barrier protection
What We Like:
- Rich hydration ideal for dry, sensitive skin
- Soothes and evens skin tone with regular use
- Iconic scent and widely accessible price
What to Consider:
- Mineral oil base may not appeal to natural purity seekers
- Scent is distinctive and potent, some may find strong
Perfect for sensitive, dry skin on a budget, Palmer’s delivers reliable moisture and soft skin, a staple among best body oils at an unbeatable value.
3. Kiehl’s Creme de Corps Nourishing Dry Oil
Kiehl’s dry oil blends plant lipids to intensely hydrate and repair the skin barrier, perfect for very dry skin.
Key Ingredients:
- Meadowfoam seed oil: Locks in moisture
- Safflower seed oil: Nourishes and softens skin
- Sunflower seed oil: Comforts and strengthens skin
What We Like:
- Luxuriously rich yet absorbs without greasiness
- Repairs dry, flaky patches with consistent use
- Gentle scent suitable for sensitive users
What to Consider:
- Pricier than some drugstore options
- Heavier texture may not suit oily skin
For intensely dry skin, Kiehl’s is a trusted choice among the best body oils offering botanical lipids and barrier support with a soothing, natural feel.
4. Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil
Osea’s algae body oil is a certified clean, vegan formula designed with sensitive and reactive skin in mind.
Key Ingredients:
- Undaria algae extract: Antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory
- Sea buckthorn oil: Supports skin health and hydration
- Rosehip oil: Resurfacing and nourishing
What We Like:
- Lightweight, soothing formula that calms irritation
- Rich in antioxidants that protect and repair
- Certified vegan and cruelty-free with clean ingredients
What to Consider:
- Higher price point for a clean oil
- Fragrance is subtle but present, may not suit all
Ideal for sensitive skin, Osea delivers gentle but effective hydration with a botanical glow, ranking as a standout among natural oils for body enthusiasts. Pairing such oils with gentle, fragrance-free cleansers is recommended.
5. Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or Dry Oil
This cult favorite oil offers a subtle golden shimmer, enhancing natural dewiness while deeply moisturizing.
Key Ingredients:
- Hazelnut oil: Nourishes without heaviness
- Sweet almond oil: Softens and smooths skin
- Camellia oil: Antioxidant and protective
What We Like:
- Multi-purpose for body, face, and hair
- Adds an instant radiant, golden glow
- Iconic, light scent evokes a spa experience
What to Consider:
- Shimmer is subtle, not for strong bronzing effects
- Not ideal for very oily skin
A top choice for glow seekers, Nuxe’s dry oil provides hydration plus luminous shine, frequently chosen as one of the best body oils for natural radiance.
6. Neutrogena Body Oil, Light Sesame Formula
Neutrogena offers an affordable, top rated body oil with a light feel ideal for combination and normal skin.
Key Ingredients:
- Sesame seed oil: Antioxidant-rich hydration
- Other plant oils for softening and moisture
What We Like:
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing texture
- Pleasant, sheer scent suitable for everyday use
- Wallet-friendly option for daily hydration
What to Consider:
- May lack the richness some dry skin types prefer
- Commercial formula with some synthetic preservatives
For lightweight hydration and ease of use, Neutrogena is a reliable, budget-friendly choice among the best body oils for daily care.
7. Evolve Organic Beauty Super Berry Body Oil
Evolve Organic blends nutrient-rich berries and oils for certified 100% organic skin nourishment.
Key Ingredients:
- Marula oil: Hydrating and antioxidant-rich
- Rosehip oil: Resurfacing and moisturizing
- Super berry oils: High in vitamins and antioxidants
What We Like:
- Certified organic and ethically sourced ingredients
- Supports elasticity and nourishes deeply
- Clean scent and texture suitable for all skin types
What to Consider:
- Mid-range price for organic formulations
- May require multiple pumps for full-body coverage
Ideal for clean beauty lovers seeking organic formulations, Evolve Organic ranks high among natural oils for body for powerful hydration and skin vitality.
8. Saltair Nourishing Body Oil
Saltair offers a cruelty-free body oil rich in botanical oils that combine hydration with captivating scents.
Key Ingredients:
- Kukui oil: Soothes and nourishes skin
- Cacay oil: Anti-aging antioxidants
- Moringa and karanja oils: Protect and hydrate
What We Like:
- Range of long-lasting fragrance options
- Leaves skin soft and scented without greasiness
- Effective moisturizing blend with quick absorption
What to Consider:
- Some may find initial oiliness upon application lasts minutes
- Price moderate but reflective of quality ingredients
Saltair is a great choice for those who want hydration plus fragrance, making it a top scented natural oils for body pick for daily indulgence.
9. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil
Bio-Oil is dermatologist-loved for improving scars and stretch marks while offering general hydration.
Key Ingredients:
- PurCellin Oil®: Enhances spreadability and absorption
- Vitamin A and E: Promote skin regeneration
- Botanical oils: Calendula, lavender, rosemary, chamomile
What We Like:
- Multi-functional oil for hydration and skin imperfections
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Widely recommended by professionals
What to Consider:
- Fragrance may be strong for sensitive individuals
- Results on scars and stretch marks require patience
For a reliable, multi-purpose solution, Bio-Oil combines treatment and moisture, standing as a valuable inclusion in the best body oils category.
10. Tom Ford Soleil Neige Shimmering Body Oil
Tom Ford’s shimmering body oil is a high-end product marrying sensual fragrance with luminous skin finish.
Key Ingredients:
- Sunflower seed oil: Nourishing base
- Fine shimmer particles: Create a glowing effect
- Exclusive parfum blend
What We Like:
- Luxuriously smooth texture without stickiness
- Elegant shimmer that enhances skin tone
- Iconic scent for special occasions
What to Consider:
- Significantly higher price point
- Best suited for dry to normal skin due to richness
A splurge-worthy choice for glow seekers, Tom Ford offers a lavish experience with radiant results, perfect for elevating your skincare routine.
Final Recommendations Based on Skin Type and Preferences
Choosing the best body oils depends on your skin type and what you want from a body oil. Here are targeted recommendations:
- Dry Skin: Opt for richer, nutrient-dense oils like Kiehl’s Creme de Corps, Osea Undaria Algae, and Mara Algae + Moringa. They replenish and seal moisture effectively. Pairing with hyaluronic acid serums can enhance barrier repair and hydration.
- Sensitive Skin: Choose gentle, fragrance-free or low-scent options like Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil and Palmer’s Cocoa Butter, which soothe irritation. A gentle skincare routine with mild cleansers supports skin health.
- Combination or Normal Skin: Lightweight, fast-absorbing oils such as Neutrogena’s Light Sesame Formula or Saltair Nourishing Body Oil provide hydration without heaviness.
- Glow Seekers: Oils with shimmer or vitamin-rich formulas like Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or and Tom Ford Soleil Neige add radiant, luminous skin finishes.
- Budget-Conscious: Palmer’s and Neutrogena are effective, affordable options that offer solid hydration.
- Luxury/Organic Preferences: Evolve Organic and Tom Ford provide premium, clean formulations for those seeking high-end or 100% organic products.
Usage Tips for Best Results
For optimal hydration and glow, apply body oil on damp skin immediately after showering. This helps lock in moisture and maximize absorption, leaving your skin soft, nourished, and radiant. Combining with a gentle hydrating routine can amplify results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between body oils and lotions?
Body oils are concentrated oil-based formulas that deeply nourish and lock in moisture over time. Lotions are lighter, water-based products that absorb quickly but offer less lasting hydration. Oils tend to leave a dewy glow, while lotions provide a matte finish.
Can body oils help achieve glowing skin?
Yes. Body oils provide hydration and often include antioxidant-rich ingredients or shimmer particles that impart a natural, radiant sheen for glowing skin.
Are natural oils better for body hydration?
Natural oils are often better tolerated since they mimic skin’s own lipids and are rich in nourishing fatty acids and antioxidants. They tend to be less irritating and support the skin barrier effectively.
How often should you use body oils?
Daily application is ideal for best results. Applying oils on damp skin after bathing optimizes absorption and hydration.
Are body oils suitable for all skin types?
There are formulations tailored to every skin type—from lightweight oils for oily or combination skin to richer blends for dry or sensitive skin—making body oils versatile moisturizers.
Conclusion
The 10 best body oils listed here offer superior hydration, natural nourishment, and a radiant glow. From budget-friendly staples to luxury splurges and certified organic blends, these top rated body oils cover every preference and skin type.
Incorporating natural oils for body care into your routine supports healthy, glowing skin with ingredients that hydrate deeply and protect the skin barrier. Choosing a glowing skin body oil from this curated selection can elevate your skincare regimen and leave your skin looking and feeling its best.
Try one of these best body oils today to upgrade your skincare ritual with long-lasting moisture and enviable radiance.
