Body lotion vs body butter: Which works best for your skin type?

Winter season is here upon us. It brings along a bevy of skin issues, wherein dry and flaky skin is one of the most common among them. During the colder months, our skin tends to lose all the moisture. In an attempt to keep the skin smooth and hydrated, a lot of ladies resort to various thick, buttery creams and lotions.

Both body butters and lotions keep your skin soft and hydrated with natural ingredients but they are very different. While there are a plethora of options available in the market, it’s important to realise that different skin types require different products.

If you also happen to be confused between body butters and body lotions, this article is sure to clear your doubts. Pooja Nagdev, aromatherapist, cosmetologist and founder of Inatur, suggests the best pick for different skin types.

Body lotion is lighter than body butter
Lotion is lighter than body butter and has a non-greasy feel to it that absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s actually an emulsion blend of water and oils both, making it great for those with not so dry skin.

Reach for the lotion when you need some lightweight moisture. This is especially ideal for the face and hands of those who have a not so dry skin texture.

Lotion is more hydrating and non-sticky. The water content in lotion is higher, which spreads more and carries less fatty matter. They can be applied to the face and contain some amount of SPF, which is an add-on point when you go for lotions.

Lotions can be used both during day and night. They are non-comedogenic and do not clog pores.

On the other hand, body butter has heavier, balmier feeling than lotion. It’s great for dry patches areas of our body, like the elbows, hands, legs and feet.

Body butters tend to have a greasy texture and are perfect for those who have a very dry skin.

Also read: That constant itchy skin could be dermatitis. Here’s a handy guide to treat the condition

Body butter is raw and lotions are refined
Use body butter when you need a more intensive moisturiser. This is ideal for rougher skin, as well as all over the body.

Butters carry less water and spread less in comparison to lotion. Body butters are raw and basic and lotions are more refined. It cannot be applied to the face because our facial skin is way very sensitive and applying butters can lead to acne or dark facial colour due to the excessive content of greasiness and less water content.

Butters should be preferably be used during night time as our skin is in the repair mode when we sleep. Hence, it tends to be more effective when used at night.

Also read: 4 chemical-free Indian skincare brands you need to commit to in 2020

Body butters can clog pores unlike lotions
Body butter is a skin moisturiser that typically contains cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil or vegetable-based oil. It’s thicker than lotion and is extra effectual at rejuvenating dry skin, whether used all over or only on problem patches, such as elbows and knees.

So, what’s the conclusion…
The main difference between these two products is that body butter contains more oils thus giving it a thicker consistency than body lotion. The choice between the two depends on your skin type. Those with relatively drier skin can benefit more from body butters than lotions.