17 Best Drugstore Body Lotions to Elevate Skincare Routine

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Apr 02, 2024
Drugstore Body Lotions to Elevate Skincare Routine
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Hydration is a non-negotiable when it comes to skincare. Our facial skin yearns for nourishment, so does our body. Here we have the best drugstore body lotions, an assortment that promises not just moisture but with a number of skin-loving benefits.

It's a misconception that effective body care comes with an extravagant price tag. Many believe that the more they spend, the better the quality. But its about the formula, not the price. Both drugstore and luxurious brands tap into a blend of humectants and emollients that make skin feel supple and rejuvenated. So, while luxury brands might lure with fancy packaging and advertising, the essence of a product's effectiveness lies in its core ingredients, and this is where drugstore options stand tall.

To make the selection easier for skincare enthusiasts, hours were spent, products were tested, and ingredients were scrutinized. The outcome? A handpicked list of the topmost drugstore body lotions based on our first-hand experience, each vying for a spot in your daily routine. Whether it's the allure of radiant skin or the simple pleasure of a well-moisturized body, these selections promise to deliver, without making your wallet weep.

17 Best Drugstore Body Lotions

Here comes the transformative magic of this healing ointment by Aquaphor, a versatile solution designed for multifaceted skincare concerns. Venturing beyond the capacities of ordinary lotions and creams, this unique balm acts as a protective barrier and healing agent for chapped lips, parched hands, cracked feet, and even minor burns. Its potency lies in its ability to not only soothe but also restore smooth, rejuvenated skin. As one of the best drugstore body lotions, it is devoid of preservatives.

Pros
  • Multifaceted healing
  • Skin barrier protection
  • Unscented formula
  • Generous amount for the price
  • Preservative-free
  • Dermatologist recommended
Cons
  • Greasy consistency
  • Best for Skin Rejuvenation

    AHAVA Dead Sea Water Mineral Body Lotion

    AHAVA Dead Sea Water Mineral Body Lotion
  • Elevate your skincare routine with AHAVA Dead Sea Water Mineral Body Lotion, a daily essential that transforms ordinary hydration into a luxurious experience. Enriched with Osmoter, an exclusive blend of Dead Sea minerals, and nourishing botanical extracts, this lotion replenishes and revitalizes your skin. Indulge in the healing power of Dead Sea minerals, providing your skin with essential nutrients while promoting natural radiance. This drugstore gem effortlessly combines affordability with spa-quality hydration, ensuring your skin feels soft, supple, and deeply moisturized every day. Experience the goodness of the Dead Sea at your fingertips, enhancing your skincare journey effortlessly.

    Pros
    • Deep and lasting hydration
    • Rich in exclusive Dead Sea minerals
    • Nourishing botanical extracts
    • Promotes skin rejuvenation
    • Lightweight and non-greasy
    • Affordable luxury for everyday use
    Cons
    • Scent might be strong for some users
  • Peter Thomas Roth Body Lotion

    Peter Thomas Roth Body Lotion
  • Embrace the richness your skin deserves, effortlessly with Peter Thomas Roth Mega-Rich Nourishing Body Lotion, your go-to solution for dry, dehydrated skin. Packed with essential ingredients like Vitamin E, Pro Vitamin B5, and Shea Butter, this mega-effective lotion deeply nourishes and moisturizes, leaving your skin supple and radiant. Indulge in the luxurious blend that hydrates, revitalizes, and enhances your skin's natural glow. This drugstore gem transforms everyday hydration into a pampering experience, making it easier than ever to achieve velvety-smooth skin.

    Pros
    • Intense hydration for dehydrated skin
    • Enriched with Vitamin E for skin nourishment
    • Pro Vitamin B5 boosts skin health
    • Luxurious shea butter for deep moisture
    • Non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula
    • Promotes radiant and supple skin
    Cons
    • Scent might be overpowering for some users
  • Top Sensitive Skin Choice

    Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream

    Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream
  • Your skin deserves to enjoy the profound humectant properties offered by Vanicream moisturizing skin cream. Specially curated for individuals with sensitive skin, this is among the best drugstore body creams as it goes beyond simple moisturization. The product aims to soothe, restore, and maintain your skin's innate moisture balance, offering solace from irritations, itchiness, and cracks. Its formulation — free of common irritants like dyes, fragrances, and parabens — ensures that even the most delicate skin types can revel in its benefits.

    Pros
    • Deep hydration
    • Sensitive skin-safe
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Versatile application
    • Dermatologist approved
    • Long-lasting nourishment
    Cons
    • Not helpful for eczema
  • Best Multitasking Lotion

    CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

    CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
  • It’s time to give your skin the luxury of long-lasting hydration with CeraVe's daily moisturizing lotion. Designed to be absorbed rapidly, this is an excellent lightweight body lotion that leaves the skin feeling velvety and well-hydrated without any greasy residue. Its prowess lies in the infusion of hyaluronic acid, ensuring skin retains its innate moisture, and MVE technology, offering continuous hydration for a full day. A harmonious blend of three essential ceramides fortifies the skin barrier, while the seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association underscores its gentleness.

    Pros
    • Rapid absorption
    • 24-hour hydration
    • Skin barrier support
    • Works well for acne
    • Dermatologist collaborated
    • Multi-purpose use
    Cons
    • Smell is not appealing
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    Curél Hydra Therapy In Shower Lotion

    Curél Hydra Therapy In Shower Lotion
  • Break the cycle of dry skin with Curél hydra therapy in shower lotion. Activated by water on freshly-showered skin, this healing moisturizer comes from one of the best lotion brands, reviving your skin from within. The product is more than just hydration; it's about fortifying the skin's very essence. Its advanced Ceramide complex helps create a potent moisture barrier, thereby alleviating issues tied to dry skin. The best part — it works while you're still in the shower, absorbing instantly, letting you towel off and get on with your day.

    Pros
    • Water-activated
    • Instant absorption
    • Strengthens the skin
    • Non-irritating formula
    • Lightweight
    • Great for very dry skin
    Cons
    • May cause allergies to extra-sensitive skin
  • Best for Eczema

    Aveeno Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm

    Aveeno Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm
  • Experience instant relief from itching with Aveeno's eczema therapy nighttime itch relief body balm. Specifically crafted with the therapeutic properties of colloidal oatmeal and ceramides, it's equipped to attend to itchy, eczema-prone skin by delivering intense, lasting moisture. Not just an ordinary balm, it is one of the best affordable body lotions with a unique formula to keep your skin hydrated. This skin protectant — suitable even for the most sensitive skin — assures immediate itch reprieve while reinforcing the skin's inherent moisture barrier.

    Pros
    • Intense moisturization
    • Free from steroids
    • Long-lasting nourishment
    • National Eczema Association-approved
    • Non-greasy formula
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • Smell is not appealing
  • Best Fragrance-free Option

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Body Gel Cream
  • Neutrogena's hydro boost body gel cream is fueled by hyaluronic acid, a natural hydrator renowned for retaining essential moisture. As one of the best drugstore body lotion brands, it introduces this ultra-light formula designed for sensitive skin. The result is simple — skin that feels supple, refreshed, and irresistibly smooth without the oily aftermath. With consistent use, you can expect a transformation towards healthier, younger-looking skin. Crafted by expert dermatologists, this cream promises to keep normal to dry skin quenched and radiant.

    Pros
    • Retains skin hydration
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-greasy finish
    • Dermatologist-developed
    • Fragrance-free
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    Cons
    • May cause skin reactions in some
  • Best for Hydration

    La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Intense Repair Body Lotion

    La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Intense Repair Body Lotion
  • For those battling dry and extra dry skin, La Roche-Posay brings the Lipikar Balm AP+ Intense repair body lotion. It’s not just another moisturizer; it promises a robust 48-hour hydration shield. Infused with a combination of niacinamide, shea butter, and glycerin, this is one of the best light weight body lotions, with the power to hydrate, repair, and calm the irritated skin. Dermatologist and pediatrician tested, the product’s gentle formulation makes it a versatile solution for the face, body, and hands. The mission is simple — restore the skin’s protective barrier and ensure day-long relief from dryness.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting hydration
    • No skin irritation
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Retains skin’s natural moisture
    • Shea butter enriched
    • Good for daily use
    Cons
    • May cause breakouts
  • Best Fast-absorbing

    Eucerin Advanced Repair Body Lotion

    Eucerin Advanced Repair Body Lotion
  • Combat the most stubborn dryness with Eucerin Advanced Repair Body Lotion. Enhanced with the potent blend of ceramide-3 and natural moisturizing factors, it not only boosts moisture levels but lays down defenses against future dryness. And there’s no fuss or mess — the convenient pump bottle ensures easy storage and effortless application. Dedicated to skin health, the brand brings a paraben-free, dye-free, and fast-absorbing formula in this drugstore body lotion that your skin will adore.

    Pros
    • 48-hour hydration
    • Delivers smooth skin
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-greasy formula
    • Easy application
    • Fragrance-free
    Cons
    • Infused AHA may cause itchiness
  • Bliss Grapefruit & Aloe Body Butter

    Bliss Grapefruit & Aloe Body Butter
  • Bliss Body Butter — graced with the tantalizing aroma of blood orange and white pepper — promises to keep your skin nourished throughout the day. The very essence of spa-grade indulgence, it is one of the best drugstore body butters which promises more than just hydration. It is enriched with the goodness of vitamin E, intensive shea butter, and botanical oils, your skin receives a deep, restorative treatment. The added benefits of coconut oil and sodium hyaluronate ensure that dryness is combatted at its roots.

    Pros
    • Luxurious scent
    • Deep hydration
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-greasy feel
    Cons
    • Unappealing smell
  • NIVEA Breathable Nourishing Body Lotion

    NIVEA Breathable Nourishing Body Lotion
  • Using Nivea's Breathable Nourishing body lotion you can pamper your skin with the deep nourishment it craves. Designed specifically for dry skin, this drugstore lotion offers an intensive nourishment while letting your skin breathe. Infused with the goodness of shea butter, vitamin E, and vitamin C, it enriches the skin, providing a soft, smooth texture. Its fresh fusion scent is a delight to the senses. Conveniently housed in a pump bottle, every drop of the body lotion caters to your skin's needs, while keeping the freshness intact.

    Pros
    • 48-hour hydration
    • Ensures supple skin
    • Non-sticky
    • Paraben and dye-free
    • Great for dry skin
    • Pleasant scent
    Cons
    • May leave a residue
  • Best Skin-brightening Lotion

    Sheamoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion

    Sheamoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion
  • Indulge in the exotic blend of SheaMoisture's Coconut & Hibiscus Body Lotion, masterfully crafted to rejuvenate your skin. This is a good drugstore lotion, enriched with organic shea butter and coconut oil, which deeply moisturizes your skin and restores its natural radiance. The infusion of sweet hibiscus not only offers a soothing scent but also works effectively to improve skin firmness. It further aids in brightening dull skin and evening out discoloration, leaving you with skin that looks and feels healthy.

    Pros
    • Organic ingredients
    • Improves firmness
    • Evens discoloration
    • Deep moisturization
    • Nice texture
    • Skin brightening
    Cons
    • Unappealing smell
  • Pharmacopia Citrus Body Lotion

    Pharmacopia Citrus Body Lotion
  • Pharmacopia's Citrus Body Lotion allows you to revel in its intense moisturizing properties. Infused with natural and organic plant ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and aloe vera, it ensures your skin remains hydrated and supple for hours. The enlivening aroma stemming from orange, bergamot, and grapefruit not only revitalizes your skin but also energizes your senses. Move beyond typical lotions; this OTC lotion boasts an all-natural formula, devoid of any synthetic fragrances or additives.

    Pros
    • Deep hydration
    • Energizing aroma
    • 100% natural
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Eco-conscious packaging
    • Chemical-free
    Cons
    • Unappealing smell
  • Best for Dry Skin

    Dove Body Love Moisturizing Body Lotion

    Dove Body Love Moisturizing Body Lotion
  • Dove's Body Love Moisturizing Body Lotion is more than just a lotion; it's a commitment to your skin. Crafted specifically for those with dry skin, this lotion intensely nourishes, ensuring that your skin feels softer, smoother, and undeniably healthier after every use. The potent blend of this lightweight body lotion is enhanced with a restoring ceramide serum that not only provides extended moisturization but also strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier. And with eco-conscious packaging, it's a win for your skin and the planet.

    Pros
    • Intense nourishment
    • 48-hour-long lasting moisture
    • Easy to apply
    • Dermatologist-approved
    • Fast-absorbing formula
    • Softens dry skin
    Cons
    • A bit too oily
  • Naturium Bio-Lipid Restoring Moisturizing Body Lotion

    Naturium Bio-Lipid Restoring Moisturizing Body Lotion
  • Crafted meticulously, Naturium's Bio-Lipid restoring moisturizing body lotion rejuvenates and strengthens the skin's natural barrier, imparting a soft and supple finish. Enriched with omega fatty acids, shea butter, and B vitamins, the formula ensures optimal hydration without any hint of greasiness. Beyond mere hydration, the blend is biocompatible and harmonizes both potent natural and advanced synthetic ingredients. The commitment to clean skincare is evident: vegan, gluten-free, and void of parabens or fragrances.

    Pros
    • Barrier replenishing
    • Non-greasy hydration
    • Gluten-free
    • Suitable for vegans
    • Paraben-free
    Cons
    • The texture is very thick
  • Top Organic Selection

    Q+A Ceramide Body Lotion

    Q+A Ceramide Body Lotion
  • Pamper your skin with the deep nourishment of Q+A's Ceramide Body Lotion, a unique blend that combines the hydrating powers of squalane, pineapple ceramides, and a barrier-protecting Sugar Complex. This gel-cream formula doesn't compromise on absorption, sinking quickly into the skin and offering the intense hydration akin to a body butter. Designed for easy application, a simple massage on dry skin is all it takes. With this affordable body lotion, you're choosing a 96.5% natural, vegan-friendly, and cruelty-free product.

    Pros
    • Intense hydration
    • Quick absorption
    • Gourmand scent
    • Organic ingredients
    • Vegan-friendly
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not for reactive skin

    Stepping into the world of drugstore body lotions has never been this enlightening. With the curated choices at hand, your path to luminous, buttery-soft skin is just a dab away. Let’s take a look into the buying guide.

    How to Choose Drugstore Body Lotions?

    Selecting the perfect body lotion from the drugstore takes time. But with the right approach, you can pinpoint the lotion that's just right for you.

    • Decode the Ingredients: Every bottle comes packed with a multitude of ingredients. Look for hydrating champions like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or aloe vera which ensure deep moisturization. Talking about ingredients, our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, shares, “Some common effective ingredients used in drugstore body lotions are glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and urea.”
    • Scent Or No Scent: Some love the lingering fragrance, while others might find it overpowering or even allergic. Decide if you want a fragranced lotion or a neutral one. Whether you prefer natural and synthetic fragrances, choose as per your preference. For people who are sensitive to strong smells, it is good to go for unscented products.
    • Consider Your Skin Type: Be it oily, dry, or sensitive, every skin type has a preferred formula. Ensure you pick a lotion that complements your skin’s unique needs.
    • The SPF Factor: If you're frequently outdoors, consider a lotion with SPF to shield against harmful UV rays. Dr. Anna Chacon recommends a body lotion with at least SPF 30, which can protect against both UVA and UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the better the protection.
    • Packaging Factors: A pump, a squeeze bottle, or a jar? Think about which packaging will be most convenient for your daily use.

    Understand your skin, read the labels right and mark all the preferences we have mentioned above. The next time you choose the best one among so many available body lotions let us lead the way.

    How to Use Drugstore Body Lotions?

    Slathering on a body lotion might seem straightforward, but maximizing its benefits requires a bit more than just a casual application.

    1. Apply It Post-shower: The best time to apply lotion is post-shower when your skin is slightly damp. This ensures better absorption and locks in the moisture.
    2. Layer It Properly: If you're using multiple products like body serums or oils, always remember the thinnest to thickest rule. Apply your thinnest product first and layer on.
    3. Don’t Miss the Dryness-prone Areas: Elbows, knees, and heels often get overlooked. Pay special attention to these dry-prone areas for even hydration.
    4. Massage Well: Don’t just apply; take a moment to massage the lotion in. This boosts circulation and ensures better product penetration.
    5. Regularity is the Key: Consistency is important when you are looking for soft, supple skin. Apply your body lotion daily for best results.

    A body lotion works wonders when used right. Adopt these practices, and you will have a radiant, hydrated glow. naturally

    Taking care of your skin has never been this effortless or affordable. With the best drugstore body lotions, achieving supple and radiant skin is no longer a distant dream but an achievablereality. We've brought together options that go above and beyond, ensuring that your skin receives the love and hydration it deserves. It's time to experience the power of budget-friendly yet high-quality skincare and let your skin have the ultimate hydration. Happy shopping!

    Contributor: Dr. Anna Chacon, Dermatologist - MyPsoriasisTeam

    FAQ's

    What's the difference between a body lotion and a body cream?
    Body lotions are generally lighter and suitable for everyday use. But body creams have a thicker consistency with intense hydration for especially dry skin.
    Should my body lotion contain SPF?
    Yes, especially if you're frequently outdoors. Body lotions with SPF protect your skin from harmful UV rays and sunburn.
    What are the best drugstore body lotions for dry skin?
    Those with the presence of hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter are the best drugstore body lotions for dry skin.
    Can drugstore body lotions help with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema?
    Yes, they can. Look for drugstore body lotions labeled
    What drugstore body lotions are best for all-day hydration?
    Body lotions containing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera ensure long-lasting hydration throughout the day.
    Are there drugstore body lotions with SPF for sun protection?
    Yes, many drugstore body lotions now include SPF. Always check the product label for SPF rating to ensure sun protection.
    What drugstore body lotions are fragrance-free or suitable for sensitive noses?
    Many drugstore brands offer fragrance-free versions of their popular lotions. These are ideal for those with scent sensitivities or allergies.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka, our skincare expert, has found the ultimate solution for dry skin after thorough research. Drugstore body lotions are vital for several reasons: they provide affordable hydration, ensuring skin stays moisturized and supple. They often contain essential vitamins and nutrients that nourish the skin. Being easily accessible, they offer a convenient solution for immediate skin relief. Moreover, their varied range caters to different skin types, ensuring everyone can find a match. She suggests that regular application helps in maintaining skin's health and youthful appearance.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More