Body moisturising · Sub-chapter 04
Body oil — what it does, what it doesn't, and when to actually use it.
Oil is an emollient, not a moisturiser. It softens what it touches and adds a surface quality that lotion can't match. It is not a replacement for hydration.
47 how-to's · Updated 28 April 2026 · Avg. 4 min per piece · Edited by Nelly · Beauty & Style Director
What body oil actually is (and isn't)
Body oil is classified as an emollient: it fills the microscopic gaps between skin surface cells, making skin feel smoother. Unlike humectants, oils do not attract water. Unlike occlusives, most oils do not form a strong film to slow water evaporation. They do best as one layer in a routine — applied on damp skin before lotion, or as an evening layer before cream.