Body moisturising · Sub-chapter 01
Three textures, one job. The difference isn't the label — it's the ratio of water to oil, and when your skin needs which.
68 how-to's · Updated 29 April 2026 · Avg. 5 min per piece · Edited by Nelly · Beauty & Style Director
The three-layer system, plain English
Every moisturiser works in three layers: the humectant layer attracts water, the emollient layer softens the surface, and the occlusive layer slows water from leaving. Lotion has a thin occlusive layer. Butter is almost entirely occlusive. Cream is the midpoint.
Format, by moment
- Lotion — Morning, before clothes, any climate
- Body cream — Evening, drier climates, after exfoliation
- Body butter — Night, hands and shins, under socks or gloves
- Body oil — On damp skin before lotion or as a PM seal