The Only 24 Body Lotions That Actually Work on Dry Skin

Yes, you read that right. This stuff contains urea. However, urea is actually one of the key natural moisturising components of our skin along with ceramides. It makes sense, then, that you get a wonderfully nourishing, repairing lotion when you put the two together in one seriously hardworking formula. Plus, I have it on good authority it also does a great job on psoriasis and keratosis pilaris.

If you're looking for an affordable, everyday body lotion to help you keep on top of dryness, look no further. This delicious cream has a lightweight, yoghurt-like texture that sinks into the skin in an instant. It's not the strongest of the bunch, but it's the perfect daily lotion for those who hate feeling greasy.

For those who like their body routine to pack a sweet-smelling punch but want to steer clear of potentially irritating fragrances, this bouncy cream strikes the perfect balance. Like fresh coconuts, one layer of this cooling, gel-like lotion from head to toe is all you need to be transported to the sunny beaches of Brazil. 

At first glance, this stuff might seem like little more than a cooling aftersun lotion. However, it's actually that and then some. With nourishing coconut oil and soothing grape water and aloe vera, it's ideal for cooling and nourishing super-dry, slightly irritated skin, whether that be from a hard day in the sun or just everyday life.

I stumbled across this treat of a lotion by pure luck. A few years ago, I found myself desperate for an affordable lotion that I could take on holiday with me and wouldn't be too upset about using up in the space of 10 days. However, the minute I landed back on UK soil after a couple of weeks in the sun, I went straight to Boots to pick up another one. It's rich and buttery, but the lightweight, whipped texture and silky oils mean it is in no way sticky or uncomfortable. Plus, the subtle coconut scent is wonderfully summery. 

Not one for the faint-hearted, this rich, oily balm is ideal for those with very dry skin that needs some nourishment. Everything from the scent to the texture oozes ultimate luxury. 

You might be more familiar with Ouai's cult haircare products. However, the Insta-famous brand has an impressive range of body products, too. This light cream smells fresh and slightly floral, but it also has some serious skincare benefits, with added squalane to treat dryness rather than disguise it. 

If you're not a particularly big fan of the feeling of body lotion under your clothes, this overnight butter could be perfect for you. Formulated with rich shea butter and coconut oil, it offers next-level nourishment and a calming lavender scent that will have you drifting off in no time.

Before you start crying at the price tag, just know that no one needs this body cream, and it can't work miracles. It's nourishing and contains all of the spa-like goodness that Susanne Kaufmann products go hand in hand with. However, it does have some impressive technology packed in there, too. Using a patented complex, this cream works to boost the skin's cell turnover and kick-start collagen production for a firm, healthy-looking finish.

If you have ever had the pleasure of smelling this cream, you'll know why it's on the list. It's nourishing, and it does a great job at tackling dryness thanks to a whole bunch of restoring ingredients, but it's the sweet, mouth-watering scent that makes it such a joy to behold.

Looking at this nondescript bottle, you wouldn't think much about it. In fact, this body lotion sat on my shelf for months before I even bothered reaching for it. However, after the first use, I was totally hooked. It has a very subtle scent that oozes freshness, but it's the no-fuss formula that makes it a real winner. It glides on and absorbs with total ease, leaving behind silky-smooth skin.

Ideal for those with serious irritation, eczema, or psoriasis, this skin balm works to soothe flare-ups and rehydrate in a matter of seconds. It's no-frills, serious skincare at its finest.

If your skin is feeling rough and bumpy, this thick cream is the ultimate smoother. It contains salicylic acid to slough away the dead skin cells responsible for blocking your pores and giving the skin its rough texture. With prolonged use, expect your skin to go back to being its softest self. 

Suffering with those unsightly bumps on the backs of your arms? Keratosis pilaris (otherwise known as chicken skin) can feel virtually impossible to get rid of. However, this game-changing lotion contains a blend of acids to help shift skin bumps and dryness. It's one of a kind and is adored by beauty editors and skin experts.

I don't know a single beauty editor who doesn't have a bottle of this cult lotion in their stash. It's thick and requires a little bit of elbow grease to apply if you accidentally squirt out too much, but the sweet-smelling, long-lasting, and glowing results make it well worth it.

Frank Body might be best known for its coffee scrubs, but this body cream is worth your attention, too. It's almost impossibly creamy and rich, with a cake-like, caramel fragrance that keeps you going back for more.

I am a huge fan of Aromatherapy Associates, but as someone who has quite sensitive skin, I'm aware that the essential oils in the brand's products aren't always best suited to me. When I first tried this body lotion, I was apprehensive, as the strong scent had flare-up written all over it. However, the minute I started massaging it into my legs, I felt a wave of calm rush over me, and my skin felt soft and soothed, with zero irritation. Now, I can't imagine not having a pot of this stuff on hand whenever I need a boost.

If you like your body lotions to be on the thicker side, this energising, zesty cream will be right up your street. Housed in a handy pump bottle, it leaves limbs feeling invigorated and delivers intense nourishment in a matter of seconds. 

Harnessing the power of pre-, pro- and postbiotics, this lightweight milk offers up a gentle, non-irritating exfoliation with lactic acid to rid the skin of any dead cells causing dullness. It leaves skin feeling next-level soft and is one of my favourite body products out there. Plus, it looks great on the shelf.

Loved by the likes of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Lanolips is a brand that uses lanolin in its products to offer up seriously hydrating nourishment. This all-over cream can be used as a body lotion, hand cream, face treatment, or baby cream, and it clears up dryness in next to no time.

I know, I know, another super-expensive Susanne Kaufmann lotion. But believe me when I say I wouldn't include them if the love wasn't strong. By no means a necessity but a wonderful addition to your bodycare arsenal should you have the cash, this lightweight lotion smells unbelievably zesty and uplifting, acting as a shot of energy for dry, tired limbs. 

I know it says this is for babies, but believe me when I say this cream is the perfect gentle treatment for patches of eczema. Full of ceramides, it helps to restore the skin's natural function with zero upset.

Not only does this softening lotion smell like the beach, but it is also safe for those who love wearing fake tan. Whereas most dry skin–busting creams will break down your faux tan and make it fade faster, this stuff protects it to keep you looking golden for longer.

We're all after a taste of spa-like luxury at home right now, and this mind-calming body milk couldn't be more suited for the occasion. With an uplifting aroma of neroli, massaging this stuff into dry areas will help soothe your skin and your mind.