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Most of us treat body moisturizer like a backup singer—important, but rarely center stage. We slather some on after a hot shower or when our legs feel like sandpaper and call it a day. Meanwhile, our face gets the five-step treatment complete with firming facial serum and the best glowing skin products we can find. But here's a question: are we neglecting the rest of our skin in a way that could cost us long-term health?
Your face isn't the only skin that needs attention
We're often laser-focused on facial skincare by scanning ingredient lists and switching to anti-aging products and natural moisturizers for dry skin as the years tick by. But your body has needs, too. Skin is your body's largest organ, and it doesn't stop at your jawline. Neglecting to moisturize your arms, legs, and torso can lead to dullness, irritation, premature aging, and a weakened skin barrier.
Dry skin isn't just a winter thing, either. Warm weather, air conditioning, hot showers, and even aggressive exfoliating can strip away moisture year-round.
When (and how often) should you moisturize your body?
Moisturizing your body once a day is a solid baseline. Twice if your skin is dry, aging, or lives in a climate that makes moisturizer vanish on contact. Dermatologists recommend applying lotion or body cream within a few minutes after your shower, while your skin is still damp — this locks in hydration.
If you've got a skincare routine for dry skin, expand it. Use a lightweight lotion before your body moisturizer to add a layer of hydration to prep your skin to absorb better. And for those prone to oiliness? A lightweight gel moisturizer can hydrate without making you feel greasy.
Moisturizing your body is self-care
Here's where it gets interesting. Moisturizing isn't just a box to tick—it can be a ritual. A few quiet minutes to reconnect with your body, slow down, and breathe. The act of applying lotion, massaging each part with intention, can shift from routine to ritual with the right mindset. If you use clean beauty products or vegan beauty products, this ritual feels even better knowing you're treating your body (and the planet) with respect.