A body cream may seem like a simple purchase, but products can vary considerably. Some formulas are rich and designed for dry areas, while others are more like a lightweight body lotion. Fragrance, size and packaging also determine whether a product fits into your daily routine.
Marketing copy doesn’t always make it clear what you’re actually buying. So focus on information you can check: the volume in millilitres, the ingredients list, the product type and the directions for use.
A scented body cream may smell lovely, but fragrance says nothing about how hydrating the formula is. A strongly scented product is best if you want to combine body care with fragrance. If you’re looking for a neutral everyday cream, pay more attention to the ingredients and texture.
Also check the label for fragrance ingredients such as limonene, linalool or citronellol. These aren’t automatically a problem, but they’re worth noting if you know you’re sensitive to fragrances.
A travel size is handy for a weekend away, the gym or hand luggage. However, 50 ml can run out quickly if you use it every day. So compare the volume with how you plan to use it. A 175 to 240 ml pack is more practical if you regularly apply cream to your arms, legs and other dry areas.
Terms such as “intensive”, “smoothing” or “rejuvenating” sound appealing, but check what the product actually says. According to the product description for Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti Body Cream, the formula contains butters and botanical oils, among other ingredients, and is described as fast-absorbing. That doesn’t automatically mean every user will get the same results.
When it comes to cosmetics, check the official ingredients list, warnings and directions for use. Stop using the product if irritation occurs, and avoid contact with the eyes.
A body cream for dry skin usually has a richer texture than a body lotion. A thicker cream can feel good on elbows, knees and lower legs. Lotion is generally lighter and better suited to use after every shower or in warm weather.
However, check the actual product description. The name “body cream” doesn’t always mean the texture is heavy. For example, Jo Malone Blackberry & Bay is sold as a body cream, while the product details also describe a lotion-like consistency.
Choose the size to suit your routine:
Check whether gift sets contain several small products rather than one larger item. A fragrance gift set, for example, might combine eau de toilette, body lotion and shower gel. That makes an attractive gift, but it isn’t the same as one large body cream.
Check the ingredients list before you order. Glycerine, oils, butters and emollient ingredients are often found in hydrating body creams, but formulas and how they feel on the skin vary by product. If the formula is scented, it’s a good idea to check the fragrance ingredients carefully.
If you know you’re sensitive to certain products, try a new one on a small area of skin first. According to the product information for several of the products mentioned, the cream is for external use only. Keep cosmetics out of the reach of children and follow the safety information on the packaging.
Why it suits this profile: The 200 ml pack offers plenty for everyday use, with a coconut fragrance for anyone looking for a simple scented body cream.
The volume is clearly stated, so you can compare 200 ml with smaller sizes. Be sure to check the full ingredients list on the packaging.
200 ml; coconut fragrance; described as leaving skin soft and cared for.
Why it suits this profile: The generous size and floral fragrance make it a good choice if you’re looking for a luxury body cream to use as part of your daily routine.
The product details list the 240 ml size, floral fragrance and cream consistency. This lets you judge whether it suits you based on volume and texture, rather than marketing language alone.
240 ml; floral fragrance; described as suitable for all skin types and fast-absorbing.
Why it suits this profile: A 6-pack of 150 ml tubs is practical if you use cream in several places, such as on your hands, feet and body.
The amount in each tub and the number of tubs are stated, making it easier to estimate how long your supply will last than with a single small pack.
150 ml per tub; 6-pack; described as suitable for the face, body, hands and feet.
For travelling, AXE Shower Gel Fine Fragrance Cherry Fizz is a compact addition to your wash bag. The pack contains 50 ml and the product description says it’s suitable for holidays, weekend trips, the gym and travel. It’s a shower gel, not a body cream, so use it to wash with rather than as a replacement for a moisturising cream.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
A care set or fragrance gift set is handy if you want to layer scented products. According to the product details, the Versace Dylan Turquoise set for women contains 100 ml of eau de toilette, a 5 ml travel spray, 100 ml of body lotion and 100 ml of bath & shower gel. The other Versace set combines 50 ml of eau de toilette with 50 ml of body and shower gel and 50 ml of bath gel.
The Moschino TOY 2 Pearl set also contains two products: 30 ml of eau de parfum and 50 ml of body lotion. For a gift for a man, the Michael Kors Pour Homme set contains 50 ml of perfume, 50 ml of aftershave balm and 50 ml of shower gel.
When buying a gift, always check:
It depends on the formula and your preference. Follow the directions on the packaging and apply the cream to clean, dry skin. A lightweight body lotion can feel good after a shower, while a richer body cream may be more suitable for dry areas of the body.
Body lotion is usually thinner and easier to spread over a larger area of skin. Body cream often has a richer texture. However, these terms aren’t fully standardised, so check the stated consistency and ingredients too.
Check the expiry date or the period-after-opening symbol on the packaging. Products marked “12M”, for example, can be used for twelve months after opening, according to the packaging. Store cosmetics in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and close the packaging securely.