You’ve got your favorite lotion in one hand and your body oil in the other. The big question: which one goes first? Let’s clear it up once and for all, no debates necessary. Because when you understand how each one works, the answer is actually pretty simple.
The Science Made Simple
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Body Lotion = Hydration Hero
Lotions are hydrous formulas (aka water-based). That means they add water and skin-loving actives directly into your skin. Think of lotion as the tall glass of water your skin’s been craving after a long day. -
Body Oil = Glow Lock-In
Oils are anhydrous (no water), so they don’t hydrate on their own. Instead, they create a nourishing layer that locks in all that hydration from your lotion while leaving your skin silky, radiant, and smelling incredible.
The Golden Rule: Lotion First, Oil Second
Here’s the cheat sheet:
- Apply lotion first to feed your skin water and actives.
- Follow with body oil second to seal it all in and keep your glow from fading.
Simple, right? Once you know the order, you’ll never look back.
Why This Order Matters
If you flip it and put oil on first, the oil forms a barrier that keeps your lotion (and its actives) from sinking in. That means you miss out on all those benefits like brightening, smoothing, and deep hydration.
The goal isn’t just moisture — it’s hydration plus protection. Lotion brings the water, oil keeps it from escaping. Together, they’re the dream team for glowing skin.
- For Dry Skin: Layering is everything. Use a lightweight lotion, then lock it in with a rich body oil. (No wonder “body oil for dry skin” is one of the most-searched terms out there.)
- For Fragrance Lovers: Body oils carry scent beautifully. Try body oil fragrances that match your vibe and layer over lotion for an all-night scent trail.
- For Everyday Radiance: Don’t overthink it — just remember lotion first, oil second, and your skin will thank you.
Ready to Try It?
At Porter + Rose, we design our body oils to pair perfectly with your lotions. They’re lightweight, fast-absorbing, and come in fragrances that make your skin-care routine feel like a night-out ritual.
Explore our Body Oils Collection and start layering like a pro.