Body Butter vs. Lotion: Which One Does Your Skin Really Need?

If you’ve ever wondered why your “body butter" feels suspiciously like lotion? Or why your lotion doesn’t quite lock in moisture the way you want? You’re not alone! The truth is: body butter and lotion are two very different products, each with their own superpowers for your skin. Understanding the difference can totally change the way your skin feels.

Body Butter: The Moisture Locking Powerhouse

A true body butter is anhydrous; meaning it contains no water at all. True body butters are typically made with plant butters (like shea or mango) and oils. Because there’s no water, there’s also no need for preservatives, which means body butter can be simpler and more natural.

Here’s the catch: since there’s no water, body butter can’t actually add hydration to your skin. Instead, it’s best at sealing in the hydration that’s already there and softening skin. That’s why the perfect time to use body butter is right after a shower or after washing your hands, when your skin is still slightly damp. Think of it like putting a lid on your favorite jar: nothing escapes.

Lotion: The Hydration Hero

Lotions are a blend of water + small amounts of oils or butters, which makes them able to add water (hydration) directly to your skin. If your skin is feeling tight, dull, or dry, lotion helps bring that bounce back.

The trade-off? Since lotion contains water, it needs a preservative to keep it safe from things like bacteria, yeast, and mold. Lotion also doesn't contain enough oils and butters to create as strong of a moisture seal as a body butter.

What About “Emulsified Body Butter”?

Some brands use this term for a super-thick lotion that contains some butters. While it may feel richer than a regular lotion, it’s still technically lotion because it contains water. However, because it contains less water than a lotion, it’s not as effective at delivering maximum hydration (like lotion). Similarly, because it contains less butters and oils than a true body butter it's not as effective at sealing in moisture (like a true body butter) either.

Which Should You Choose?

• Use Body Butter: right after a shower or hand-washing, while skin is still damp, to lock in the hydration you already have.

• Use Lotion: when your skin feels dry and needs water-based hydration.

And remember: you can absolutely have both in your routine. Lotion first to hydrate, body butter after to lock it all in. Your skin will thank you.

Ready for skin that feels soft, smooth, and nourished all day?

🛒 Shop our Body Butters and Lotions now... your perfect match is waiting!