Which Hand and Body Lotions Should You Use?

Almost every person uses lotion. Depending on which climate you live in, you may need more or less of it than others. Climate, diet, and many other factors can play a role in how moist or dry your skin tends to be.

Lotions are abundant. Practically every store you walk into carries some type of it. So how do you know which out of the many skin lotions to use? If you are choosing your lotion simply because it smells nice, think again. Everyone has different needs, and there is no “one-size-fits-all” in this area.

Another thing to take into consideration is the ingredients in the products you use. Steer clear of ingredients such as petroleum by-products and harsh, synthetic chemicals – people are becoming more aware of the effects these have on our bodies and the environment.

So, what do you need to look for when choosing a hand or body lotion?

Dry Skin

Dry skin is especially in need of tender nourishment. When skin becomes dry, it can damage easily. It may get rough and sore, and may even become cracked and bleed. When your hands are dry and in terrible shape, look for a lotion that is thick and soothing.

Be careful of artificial lotion ingredients such as emulsifiers. They tend to make skin even drier by interfering with the skin’s natural lipid barrier and allowing moisture to escape more quickly. This leads to exactly the opposite effect of what you want.

Many oils actually work to protect the skin’s lipid barrier. Most natural oils are non-greasy and easily absorbed by the skin. Some oils that are especially healing to dry skin are natural ones such as grape seed oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil. Always look for organic. In America, lotion is quite popular, but in many other parts of the world, oils are often used to moisturize the skin.

Oily Skin

Many people are under the false impression that when skin is oily, you should not use a moisturizer. Although a person is wise to avoid heavy ingredients, not using any moisturizer may fool the body into thinking that it needs to compensate. This can have a detrimental effect and clog pores. Although the rest of the body is not usually plagued with acne, it can happen in certain areas such as the shoulders, chest, back and buttocks.

When you are dealing with oily skin, look for ingredients that will cleanse as well as protect. Keep your eyes open for non-comedogenic lotions that will not clog pores or lead to further problems.

If you are looking for a completely natural lotion, try extra virgin coconut oil. Amazingly, a great number of people have been able to fight acne with its use. This is likely due to its antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. This amazing oil also doubles as effective sun protection. As with any other product, choose only organic to avoid absorbing unnecessary pesticides. Your skin is your largest organ and absorbs much of what you put on it.

Choosing the right lotion for your skin type is important. Whether you have naturally dry or oily skin, lotion can moisturize as well as protect it. Being choosy about ingredients and leaning towards natural lotions and oils is good for you and the environment. Find the right lotion today and care for your skin in the way it needs.