{"id":52009,"date":"2026-08-29T17:51:12","date_gmt":"2026-08-29T17:51:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/?p=52009"},"modified":"2026-08-29T17:51:12","modified_gmt":"2026-08-29T17:51:12","slug":"we-tried-15-lotions-over-three-weeks-heres-which-our-testers-loved-and-which-left-them-high-and-dry-life-and-style","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/?p=52009","title":{"rendered":"We tried 15 lotions over three weeks. Here\u2019s which our testers loved \u2013 and which left them high and dry | Life and style"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>\n<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><span style=\"color:var(--drop-cap);font-weight:700\" class=\"dcr-1iwzucl\">Y<\/span>our skin is the largest organ on the body. Taking care of it can feel like a full-time job, especially if you struggle with anything from dryness and sun damage to psoriasis, not to mention allergies and hormone fluctuations over time. Picking the right lotion for your skin is crucial \u2013 and it\u2019s much more of a health decision than many people realize.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Packaging, brand loyalty, fragrance or recommendations from your favorite influencers might factor into your decision. But when considering a lotion for long-term use, the best options are those that will actually benefit the skin.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">To narrow down the choices, we assembled a group of five enthusiastic testers to test 15 lotions over the course of three weeks, and asked them about everything from scents to the design of the packaging. With their feedback, we compiled a comprehensive list of lotion ratings.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-i-tested-the-lotions\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><strong>How I tested the lotions<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Elena Noviello\/Getty Images<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">To learn about lotion quality, best practices and general information about skin health, I started by consulting three licensed dermatologists. Of the seemingly infinite number of brands available, I compiled a list of 15 options from buzzy new online brands to drugstore staples. All of the products were provided as samples by the companies for evaluation and will be donated as testing has concluded.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">I asked five testers, whose ages range from their 20s to their 60s, to use at least one lotion a day and record their experiences on a detailed survey. They gave opinions on the packaging, moisturizing, texture, scent, absorption, effects on skin conditions and overall value of each lotion. I also tested most of the lotions myself for a hands-on experience.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"meet-the-experts\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><strong>Meet the experts<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Dr<\/strong><strong> James Wang<\/strong>, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist and founder and co-CEO of Metropolis Dermatology in Los Angeles, California.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Dr Melanie Palm, <\/strong>a<strong> <\/strong>board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in Solana Beach, California.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Dr<\/strong><strong> Carina Woodruff<\/strong>, dermatologist at the Epiphany Skin Allergy Institute and assistant professor at Texas A&amp;M at Epiphany Dermatology, in Dallas, Texas.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-best-of-the-best\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><strong>The best of the best<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"best-overall-nivea-shea-nourish-body-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best overall:<\/em><br \/>Nivea Shea Nourish Body Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Nivea<\/p>\n<p>Shea Nourish Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$4.99<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$4.99 for one at CVS <\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$21.20 for pack of six at Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Most of the group were already familiar with this lotion, a nostalgic product that some testers referred to as a \u201cfamily favorite\u201d. Nivea stood out among testers for being a good value for its price, being very hydrating, and most of the group said they intended to purchase it after testing concluded. One tester was effusive in their response, calling it the \u201cGoat\u201d in its price bracket.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The brand claims that its formula lasts for 48 hours, which seems to meet our testers\u2019 discerning standards. The ingredients include shea butter (a fatty extract that comes from the nuts of the African shea tree) and hyaluronic acid (a humectant that helps the skin stay hydrated). Most of our testers reported feeling moisturized for up to and over 12 hours. While I typically associate shea butter with a thicker texture, the thinner, almost milky consistency of the Nivea lotion made it very easy to apply and feel comfortable on the skin.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>one tester noted that the floral-forward fragrance was \u201cjust too strong\u201d to wear daily and also had some issues with the packaging: \u201cThe bottle is kind of poorly constructed. The other lotions just come in harder and thicker bottles, and this bottle is kind of soft for a pump style,\u201d they said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">These notes align with recent changes to the formula and packaging. In 2025, Nivea added hyaluronic acid to the mix, and the bottle is now also made from 50% recycled plastic. According to consumer reviews, the new formula is thinner and the scent is stronger and more difficult to tolerate \u2013 and this tracks with our testers\u2019 findings.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components: <\/strong>shea butter, hyaluronic acid<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisturizing claim:<\/strong> 48 hours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Nivea<\/p>\n<p>Shea Nourish Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$4.99<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-scented-lotion-eos-shea-better-24h-moisture-body-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best scented lotion:<\/em><br \/>EOS Shea Better 24H Moisture Body Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>EOS<\/p>\n<p>Shea Better 24H Moisture Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$9.97<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$9.97 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$10.99 at EOS<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">If you enjoy fragrance in your lotions, the brand EOS was a favorite among testers. It comes in a variety of scents, so each tester got a different scent to try out. Regardless of which they received, each reviewer gave the lotion near-perfect scent ratings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">All of our testers loved this lotion \u2013 in fact, one tester purchased it on their own by the time they submitted their response. \u201c[It was] very good, clean [and seemed] like it would taste good,\u201d the tester said of the Pomegranate Raspberry option. Another tester described the Vanilla Cashmere option as \u201csoothing\u201d. For one tester, the Creme de Pistachio option was like \u201cpistachio ice-cream\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\u201cFragrance is good for brands because it\u2019s addictive. People get used to a certain smell, and they crave it,\u201d said Wang.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Although it\u2019s branded as a 24-hour moisturizer, reviews on that front were mixed, suggesting it ranges from less than four hours to more than 12 hours. Testers described the lotion as light, non-greasy and fast-absorbing and took note of the unique design of the bottle, finding the colors of the packaging fun and soft, and the imprint on the bottom right side an easy way to hold the bottle for use.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>while our cohort largely enjoyed their experience with EOS, other reviewers weren\u2019t as thrilled, citing issues such as headaches from scents, pump malfunctions and the product being unsuitable for extremely dry skin.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components:<\/strong> shea butter, shea oil<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisturizing claim:<\/strong> 24 hours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>EOS<\/p>\n<p>Shea Better 24H Moisture Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$9.97<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-moisturizing-eucerin-advanced-repair-body-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best moisturizing:<\/em><br \/>Eucerin Advanced Repair Body Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Eucerin<\/p>\n<p>Advanced Repair Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$13.69<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$13.69 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$14.19 at CVS<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Eucerin is a clinical-grade moisturizer for very dry skin that helps restore the skin barrier. Our testers ranked it highly for hydration and repurchase potential. \u201cIt glides really smoothly on the skin and feels really luxurious,\u201d one tester said. \u201c[It is] reasonable, less expensive and worth it,\u201d another tester said. Several of the doctors we spoke to recommended Eucerin and noted that they use the brand within their practices.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The brand claims the lotion provides up to 48 hours of moisture retention, thanks to ceramide 3 as a primary hydrating agent, along with other moisture-retaining ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) and urea. All testers said Eucerin left them feeling moisturized for at least eight hours and up to 12.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>despite being advertised as fragrance-free, Nivea ranked among the lowest of all the lotions for smell \u2013 every tester agreed that it smelled like medicine. According to the dermatologists I spoke to, \u201cfragrance-free\u201d means there are no added fragrances in the product to mask the smell of ingredients such as urea and certain AHAs, both of which can be generally unpleasant. (Urea can smell medicinal, and some AHAs, unfortunately, can smell like yogurt).<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components: <\/strong>ceramide 3, AHA, urea<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisturizing claim: <\/strong>48 hours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Eucerin<\/p>\n<p>Advanced Repair Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$13.69<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-anti-ageing-jergens-skin-firming-body-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best anti-ageing:<\/em><br \/>Jergens Skin Firming Body Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Jergins<\/p>\n<p>Skin Firming Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$7.47<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$7.47 at Walmart (one)<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$20.28 at Amazon (pack of three)<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">This product scored high in a few categories, including absorption and texture. And at just $7.49, it\u2019s one of the cheaper options on our list, a fact that all of our testers loved \u2013 a \u201csolid value for middle America\u201d, one tester said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Many noted the lotion\u2019s \u201ccreamy\u201d and \u201csilky\u201d consistency and rated it among the fastest absorbing of the group, lasting over eight hours at minimum. Scent descriptions in this group ranged from \u201ccitrus\u201d to \u201cmild almond extract\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">I\u2019ve also used other versions of Jergens and found the skin-firming formula to be equally as moisturizing as other options I\u2019ve used in everyday life and another tester echoed this sentiment.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>the skin-tightening effects may be temporary. The branding claims you can see a \u201csmooth, toned look after one use\u201d, but reviews on retail websites suggested that consistent use produces the best results. \u201cConsumers should have realistic expectations here,\u201d said Melanie Palm, MD, board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in Solana Beach, California. \u201cA lotion can improve hydration and temporarily improve skin texture, but it\u2019s not going to provide a significant firming effect that lasts.\u201d<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components: <\/strong>collagen amino acids, elastin<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisturizing claim:<\/strong> 24 hours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Jergins<\/p>\n<p>Skin Firming Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$7.47<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-budget-friendly-buy-palmers-cocoa-butter-formula-daily-skin-therapy-body-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best budget-friendly buy:<\/em><br \/>Palmer\u2019s Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy Body Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Palmer\u2019s<\/p>\n<p>Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$6.69<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$6.69 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$7.71 at Walmart<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Palmer\u2019s was the unanimous top choice for hydration on a budget. One tester called the lotion the \u201cpeople\u2019s champ\u201d, with most saying they would purchase the product again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Using the lotion was a lush sensory experience, with testers describing it as having a \u201cthick and buttery\u201d consistency. The scent also received top scores, described as a \u201csweet chocolate smell\u201d or \u201cfresh baked cookie\u201d. As for its moisturizing capabilities, most testers said this product lasted over 12 hours \u2013 impressive!<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>the pump was a consistent issue for several of our testers, who reported not being able to get the dispenser to work. Some had to unscrew the top to get to the lotion. Other retail reviews detailed similar pump issues \u2013 the component clogs easily and it\u2019s difficult to get to the product at the bottom of the bottle.<\/p>\n<p>Palmer\u2019s<\/p>\n<p>Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$6.69<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-luxury-option-naturium-skin-renewing-retinol-body-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best luxury option:<\/em><br \/>Naturium Skin-Renewing Retinol Body Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Naturium <\/p>\n<p>Skin-Renewing Retinol Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$25.99<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$25.99 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$25.99 at Ulta Beauty<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">This offering is one of the more expensive products on our list, but our testers describe the experience as pure luxury, with a gel-like consistency that allows for even distribution and quick absorption. Our panel described it as \u201csilky\u201d, \u201ccreamy\u201d, and \u201clightweight\u201d. One tester described feeling a \u201csilica barrier\u201d on their skin that they especially enjoyed while using this lotion: \u201cIt feels like it sits on the skin and moisturizes. It feels like super tiny micro beads; it\u2019s a very new feeling,\u201d they said. Most of the testers said they would purchase this option again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Testers liked the easy-to-use squeeze bottle and the sky-blue color of the packaging. The hero ingredient here is retinol, which is more commonly found in skincare; our testers were curious about how it worked in the product. \u201cNaturium, this one is also to treat skin texture and pigmentation, but retinols can be irritating, so not everyone can use them,\u201d says Wang. \u201cYou have to use SPF because there\u2019s a retinol involved.\u201d (This is also clearly noted on the packaging, in a callout that also says to stop using the product if you experience irritation).<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>our testing was done without participants using sun protection. While most of the testers did not report any major issues with their skin, one did indicate having \u201ca little itchiness\u201d after using the lotion overnight. Scent-wise, this product did not impress. Despite it being advertised as fragrance-free, testers\u2019 critiques of the scent varied from \u201cneutral\u201d and \u201cno smell\u201d to a \u201cfunky smell like sour milk\u201d.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components:<\/strong> encapsulated retinol, allantoin, shea butter, sodium PCA<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisture claim: <\/strong>not specified<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Naturium <\/p>\n<p>Skin-Renewing Retinol Body Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$25.99<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-for-sensitive-skin-cerave-daily-moisturizing-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best for sensitive skin:<\/em><br \/>CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>CeraVe<\/p>\n<p> Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$14.97<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$14.97 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$14.99 at Ulta Beauty <\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">CeraVe stood out as a solid option for those who don\u2019t need a lot of bells and whistles in their lotions. \u201cSome of the best products are really just very utilitarian products that are basic. They just have the things you need,\u201d said Dr Carina Woodruff, dermatologist at the Epiphany Skin Allergy Institute and assistant professor at Texas A&amp;M at Epiphany Dermatology, in Dallas. Our testers agreed. Most of the panel said they would purchase this again, thanks to its high absorption rate, low greasiness, and a texture described as \u201clightweight (milky)\u201d, and \u201csilky\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Testers appreciated CeraVe\u2019s no-fuss packaging for its easy-to-use pump and \u201csimple design\u201d. This sample also carried some brand recognition \u2013 several testers were familiar with the CeraVe brand through regular family use and through dermatologist recommendations. The experts we spoke to also endorsed CeraVe, calling it out specifically for being \u201chypoallergenic\u201d and \u201cgood for sensitive skin\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>because it\u2019s lightweight and marketed for normal to dry skin, it\u2019s not ideal for very dry skin. If you need more from your lotion, this might not be the one for you. One tester said: \u201cIt helps with dryness for cracked feet, but not visible dryness long term.\u201d The tester added: \u201cThis feels like a foundational lotion, but I need to reapply before going out.\u201d The scent is also nothing remarkable, with most testers saying that it was \u201cneutral\u201d or \u201cboring\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>CeraVe<\/p>\n<p> Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$14.97<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-body-butter-skinfix-barrier-lipid-boost-body-cream\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best body butter:<\/em><br \/>SkinFix Barrier+ Lipid-Boost Body Cream<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>SkinFix<\/p>\n<p>Barrier+ Lipid-Boost Body Cream<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$33.60<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$33.60 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$34 at SkinFix<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Testers found the emollient-rich SkinFix to be extremely moisturizing, with most reporting a hydrating effect lasting over 12 hours. They described the product as \u201cthick (buttery)\u201d and \u201ccreamy\u201d, with excellent absorption and only a little bit of greasiness after application. I found this option had an extremely thick texture that worked best when I rubbed it between my hands to melt down before applying it to my body.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Unlike the other lotions here, SkinFix is advertised as a body cream, and it comes in a tub with a twist-off cap. Testers appreciated the \u201cchill color and spa-like design\u201d and also said that the box that the product comes in was \u201ca nice touch\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The cream is branded as fragrance-free, and most testers said its scent was \u201cgeneric\u201d or \u201cindescribable\u201d. But one tester was a bit more specific: \u201cIt\u2019s kind of like almond. Not like the almond fragrance they add to things. But like raw almond. Or like a light wood smell.\u201d SkinFix\u2019s hero ingredients are all heavy-hitters when it comes to moisture. Besides ceramides and shea butter, the brand uses a plant oil blend that includes moringa, jojoba and almond oil.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>at $48, testers found the cream too expensive. While they described having a positive experience with SkinFix, many said they would only consider purchasing the cream at a lower price point.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components:<\/strong> ceramides, oat complex, shea butter, plant oil blend<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisture claim: <\/strong>not specified<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>SkinFix<\/p>\n<p>Barrier+ Lipid-Boost Body Cream<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$33.60<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-fragrance-free-lubriderm-daily-moisture-lotion-fragrance-free\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best fragrance-free:<\/em><br \/>Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-Free<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-Free<\/p>\n<p>Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-Free<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$11.89<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$11.89 at CVS <\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$11.97 at Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Already familiar to many of our testers, Lubriderm scored high marks across the board, specifically thanks to its fast absorption and low greasiness, as well as its packaging, with testers saying the bottle is an ideal size and shape. Several testers described the lotion as having a \u201clightweight\u201d and \u201ccreamy\u201d texture. And it is very affordable and readily available \u2013 testers considered it a solid value among the lotions.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">However, opinions about how long the moisturizing effect lasted varied for testers. The lotion is branded as a 24-hour moisture product, but most testers said they got 12 hours or more.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Scent-wise, Lubriderm is marketed as \u201cfragrance-free\u201d, but testers reported varying levels of scent, from having \u201cno strong scent\u201d to smelling \u201cnatural\u201d, \u201cmedicinal\u201d, or like \u201cplastic\u201d. In comparison to the other fragrance-free options, the scent was inoffensive.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Lubriderm is notably a recommended lotion for tattoo aftercare \u2013 use it on your newly decorated skin to help with the healing process and, long-term, to keep your tattoo vibrant over time.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>some testers experienced skin issues while using this lotion. One tester said that it \u201chelps against dryness, not against ashiness\u201d \u2013 a crucial distinction. Another tester said they experienced a reaction in select areas of the body and said the product left a residue on their skin. \u201cIt was itchy and irritating around my wrist where I wear my jewelry,\u201d the tester said.<\/p>\n<p>Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-Free<\/p>\n<p>Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-Free<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$11.89<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"best-clean-ingredient-formula-vanicream-moisturizing-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span><em>Best clean ingredient formula:<\/em><br \/>Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Vanicream<\/p>\n<p>Moisturizing Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$13.59<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$13.59 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$14.24 at Walmart<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Why we love it<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Vanicream was a polarizing option amongst our testers. Marketed for sensitive skin, the lotion is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, with a thin and lightweight texture. For people who reported skin concerns such as dryness, itchiness or tightness, Vanicream was a hit, and participants said they would purchase the product again.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Even if you don\u2019t have any specific skin concerns, Vanicream is still a doctor-recommended pick. \u201cI\u2019m really big on teaching my patients that really everyone should be using hypoallergenic skincare because things that aren\u2019t hypoallergenic present a risk to your skin, so they\u2019re not really adding to your health,\u201d said Woodruff.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Texture-wise, there were no real complaints. \u201cThis really glides across the skin when you put it on,\u201d one tester said. \u201cIt feels really refreshing after a shower.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Notably, and unlike a lot of the picks on our list, Vanicream\u2019s claim to fame is its rather short ingredient list: the product is free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde releasers, essential oils or plant extracts. It\u2019s also non-comedogenic, so it won\u2019t clog your pores, and it has a 5-star rating from the National Eczema Association, so it\u2019s suitable for those with eczema and dermatitis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It\u2019s a shame that<\/strong><strong> \u2026 <\/strong>the simplicity of the lotion is a blessing and a curse. While many enjoyed their experience with Vanicream, one tester called it the \u201cliteral worst lotion of the bunch\u201d, saying that it wasn\u2019t very moisturizing and that the packaging was outdated, with \u201ca fake fancy 90s feel\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The lack of additional ingredients is the point, but that detracts from the experience of the lotion itself. \u201cVanicream is very hypoallergenic but sometimes feels a bit basic. It doesn\u2019t feel very elevated,\u201d said Woodruff.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Key components:<\/strong> free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde releasers, and botanical extracts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Moisture claim: <\/strong>not specified<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Vanicream<\/p>\n<p>Moisturizing Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$13.59<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-best-of-the-rest\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><strong>The best of the rest<\/strong><\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"aveeno-daily-moisturizing-lotion\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span> Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Aveeno<\/p>\n<p>Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$9.97<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$9.97 at Walmart<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$9.97 at Amazon<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Aveeno tested largely positive with the group and half the group said they would repurchase this after the test was over \u2013 a hearty endorsement but not quite enough for it to make it to the top of its class. Testers also found the lotion to be non-greasy and to have decent absorption, with a \u201clightweight (milky)\u201d or \u201ccreamy\u201d texture. Aveeno claims to deliver 24-hour moisture and is marketed as a good pick for dry skin, but most of our testers said the effects lasted just over 12 hours.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The lotion is fragrance-free, but some of the more colorful opinions about Aveeno were about its scent, with descriptions varying from \u201cnatural\u201d to \u201coatmeal\u201d to \u201cmild almond\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\u201cIt smells like plants. It\u2019s like a fresh scent,\u201d one tester said \u2013 perhaps as a result of its primary ingredient, probiotic oat, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help calm itchy or irritated skin.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It didn\u2019t make the final cut because \u2026 <\/strong>the lotion<strong> <\/strong>might not keep everyone moisturized. One of our testers rated the product as providing less than two hours of moisture and reported itchiness soon after applying the lotion. Retail reviews suggest Aveeno may require frequent reapplication.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">While the probiotic oat in Aveeno is intended to be a calming and soothing agent, it can also trigger allergies in some sensitive individuals. \u201cPeople develop irritant and allergic reactions to products. It\u2019s fairly common. It\u2019s called contact dermatitis. It happens to one in five people throughout their lifetime,\u201d said Woodruff.<\/p>\n<p>Aveeno<\/p>\n<p>Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$9.97<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"la-roche-posay-lipikar-balm-apm-triple-repair\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\"><span> La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+M Triple Repair<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>La Roche-Posay<\/p>\n<p>Lipikar Balm AP+M Triple Repair<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$18.99<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><\/span> Photograph: Tracy Allison\/The Guardian<span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$18.99 at Amazon<\/span><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">$21.99 at Walmart<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">This option was a moisture powerhouse for our testers, with the majority of the group rating it as fast-absorbing and hydrating for over 12 hours. La Roche-Posay is explicitly marketed as a face and body cream, and several testers noted its versatility. \u201cI love the ability to use it as a facial moisturizer cream,\u201d one tester said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Not all body moisturizers are double-duty. \u201cIf someone has very sensitive skin and uses a bland, fragrance-free moisturizer, it can absolutely work for both face and body,\u201d said Palm. \u201cBut facial skin is thinner and often more acne-prone or reactive, so body lotions that are heavily fragranced or very occlusive may not perform as well on the face.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>It didn\u2019t make the final cut because \u2026 <\/strong>It\u2019s just a little too expensive for most testers. While they were pleased with the performance, most could not justify the cost, with one tester calling the cream \u201cpricey for the size\u201d and another saying it was \u201ctoo expensive compared to other skin lotions\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>La Roche-Posay<\/p>\n<p>Lipikar Balm AP+M Triple Repair<\/p>\n<p>from <strong>$18.99<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-filter-also-tested\" class=\"dcr-7d9sx6\">The Filter also tested:<\/h2>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\"><strong>Other pieces you might enjoy from the Filter, the Guardian\u2019s guide to buying fewer, better things:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-1vp4tz8\">Explore the Filter<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your skin is the largest organ on the body. Taking care of it can feel like a full-time job, especially if you struggle with anything from dryness and sun damage to psoriasis, not to mention allergies and hormone fluctuations over time. Picking the right lotion for your skin is crucial \u2013 and it\u2019s much more<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":52010,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[51],"tags":[9113,613,949,1199,337,25248,3934,891,15322,969],"class_list":{"0":"post-52009","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-health","8":"tag-dry","9":"tag-heres","10":"tag-high","11":"tag-left","12":"tag-life","13":"tag-lotions","14":"tag-loved","15":"tag-style","16":"tag-testers","17":"tag-weeks"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52009","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=52009"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52009\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/52010"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=52009"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=52009"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/naijaglobalnews.org\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=52009"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}