Body Lotions
A good body lotion is the foundation of any body care routine. Whether you're after everyday hydration, intensive relief for dry skin, or a fragrance-free formula for sensitive skin, our range of body lotions covers every need and every skin type.
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We stock a carefully selected range of body lotions from the UK's most trusted pharmacy brands, including Aveeno, Nivea, CeraVe, E45, QV, Eucerin and Vaseline. Many of our lotions are dermatologist-tested and recommended by pharmacists for regular use on dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin. All orders over £40 qualify for free UK delivery, so stocking up on your essentials has never been easier.
Body lotion guide
Choosing the right body lotion for your skin
Not all body lotions are created equal. The right formula depends on your skin type, your concerns, and how you want it to feel. Use this guide to find your match.
| Lotion type | Best for | Key ingredients | Brands we stock |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily moisture lotionLightweight, fast-absorbing | Normal to slightly dry skin. Apply to damp skin after a shower for comfortable all-day hydration. | Glycerin, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, oat extract | AveenoNiveaFenjal |
| Nourishing body lotionRicher, longer-lasting | Dry to very dry skin. Particularly effective in colder months when skin loses moisture quickly. | Urea, ceramides, shea butter, vitamin E | EucerinVaselineNivea |
| Sensitive skin lotionFragrance-free, hypoallergenic | Easily irritated or reactive skin. Helps restore the moisture barrier without triggering flare-ups. | Ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, glycerin | CeraVeAveenoQV |
| Emollient lotionMedical-grade, pharmacy-recommended | Eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. Can double as a soap substitute. No prescription needed. | Liquid paraffin, white soft paraffin, colloidal oatmeal | Dermol 500E45QV |
Body lotion by skin concern
A lightweight daily lotion is all you need. Apply once after showering for a non-greasy finish.
Choose a richer body lotion with urea or ceramides. Apply to damp skin for best results.
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas only. Ceramides and colloidal oatmeal help restore the skin barrier.
Pharmacy-recommended emollients as part of Complete Emollient Therapy — available without prescription.
ⓘ Unsure which lotion is right for your skin? Our pharmacy team is happy to help — speak to us in branch or contact us online.
Body Lotions FAQs
- What is the best body lotion for dry skin in the UK?
- How often should I apply body lotion?
- Should I apply body lotion to wet or dry skin?
- What is the difference between a body lotion and a body cream?
- Are body lotions suitable for sensitive skin?
- Can I use body lotion on my face?
- How do I choose the right body lotion for eczema?
What is the best body lotion for dry skin in the UK?
For dry skin, look for a body lotion containing nourishing ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, cocoa butter, shea butter or glycerin. Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion, Nivea and Eucerin UreaRepair are consistently popular choices for dry skin. For very dry or eczema-prone skin, a pharmacy emollient such as Dermol 500 may be more appropriate.
How often should I apply body lotion?
For most people, once daily — ideally straight after a shower or bath — is enough to keep skin comfortable. Those with dry skin benefit from applying twice daily, particularly during colder months when central heating and cold weather can strip moisture from the skin. If you're using an emollient lotion for a skin condition such as eczema, your pharmacist may recommend applying it three or four times throughout the day.
Should I apply body lotion to wet or dry skin?
Body lotion is most effective when applied to slightly damp skin — within a few minutes of getting out of the shower or bath. Damp skin absorbs moisture more readily and the lotion acts as a sealant, locking that moisture in. Applying lotion to completely dry skin means the product has to work harder and may not be as effective.
What is the difference between a body lotion and a body cream?
Body lotions have a lighter, water-based consistency that absorbs quickly, making them ideal for everyday use or warmer months. Body creams are thicker and richer, with a higher oil or butter content, making them better suited to very dry skin or targeted treatment of dry areas. For most people with normal to mildly dry skin, a body lotion is the more practical daily option.
Are body lotions suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes — but it's important to choose the right formula. For sensitive skin, always opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotions that have been dermatologist-tested such as QV Skin Lotion. Products containing ceramides (such as CeraVe) or colloidal oatmeal (such as Aveeno) are particularly well-suited to sensitive skin, as they help to support and reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier without causing irritation.
Can I use body lotion on my face?
Body lotions are generally not recommended for use on the face. They are formulated for thicker body skin and may be too heavy or potentially pore-blocking for facial use, especially on skin that is already combination or oily. For facial moisturising, a dedicated facial moisturiser is always the better choice.
How do I choose the right body lotion for eczema?
For eczema-prone skin, it's crucial to use emollients or lotions specifically designed to soothe and protect. Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas rich in ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, or paraffin. Brands like Dermol 500, E45, and QV are frequently recommended by pharmacists for their efficacy in managing eczema symptoms by helping to restore the skin's natural barrier.