Body Lotion Vs. Face Cream: What Works Best for Your Skin?

With the flurry of skincare options available, it can be a bit confusing to make a choice. Take, for example, looking for a staple like a moisturizing cream. Here, one must know the difference between a ‘facial cream’ and a ‘body lotion’ before zeroing in on a product.   

That’s right. Cream and lotion (in concern) are not interchangeable, contrary to popular misconception. A facial cream is formulated for delicate, thin skin on the face and addresses specific concerns. On the other hand, a lotion focuses on hydration and nourishment for larger areas a.k.a. body care. 

Keep scrolling to learn more about the differences between body lotion and facial cream. Also, we answer the question: what works better for your skin? 

Body Lotion Vs Face Cream: Key Differences 

Right off the bat – you need both facial cream and body lotion in your rotation. Skin is your body’s largest organ, and its maintenance transcends the face.  

On that note, here are the key differences between the 2 staples-

1. Texture And Consistency  

Facial creams are thicker and packed with emollients to ensure long-lasting hydration for delicate skin. On the other hand, body lotions are lightweight and glide easily to cover a larger surface area.

2. Ingredients  

Facial creams are packed with antioxidants, humectants, or specific actives to address skin’s underlying concerns. On the other hand, body creams focus more on day-long hydration and moisturization. Use the latter to rejuvenate dry, flaky elbows, callous-y feet, and more.

3. Skin Sensitivity And Formulation  

Creams formulated for the face are gentle, soothing, and usually non-comedogenic. Whereas body lotions may clog the pores and trigger underlying sensitivities when used on the face. 

Can You Use Body Lotion On The Face? 

While we don’t endorse it, in case of any emergency you may use a body lotion on the face. Here are the possible pros and cons of this action  

Pros: Hydration: Like face creams, body lotions hydrate the skin – keeping it locked in prolonged periods. Having said that, we recommend turning to the latter only in emergencies.

Cons: Body lotions are formulated for thicker skin which is less prone to flare-ups. So, using a similar concoct on the face may lead to an imbalanced skin microbiome. Results? Clogged pores, acne, irritation, or inflammation. 

When To Use Face Cream Vs Body Moisturizer  

To reap the maximum benefits of face cream or body moisturizer, you must apply it right after cleansing. That’s right. A clean base ensures better absorption of the formula to address concerns like dehydration, dullness, or more. This step in your routine also prevents irritants and pathogens from getting sealed into the dermis. 

When And How To Apply Your Face Cream  

After cleansing, use a coin-sized amount of the cream and massage it on your face, neck, and ears. If your skin is extremely dehydrated, we recommend applying the cream on damp skin to seal maximum moisture.  

P.S. Experts suggest moisturizing twice a day in your morning and nighttime routine. Your skin demands hydration overnight to repair and rejuvenate at the cellular level. 

When And How To Apply Your Body Lotion  

Add a potent lotion to your daily bath and body regimen. Apply it right after hopping out of the shower. Use generously on your elbows, legs, and knees to keep dry, rough texture at bay. 

Tips For Choosing The Right Face Cream For Your Skin Type 

Before picking a face cream, you need unerring knowledge about your skin type - 

For oily skin: Since this skin type is prone to clogged pores, we recommend using lightweight, gel-based face creams. Seek oil-control ingredients like Niacinamide to maintain a balanced microbiome. 

For dry skin: Look for rich, heavy face creams packed with humectants. Multipurpose ingredients like Ceramides benefit dry skin by ensuring smooth texture, fighting free radicals, and deferring ageing signs. 

For sensitive skin: Sensitive skin flares up at the slightest inconvenience. So, to avoid inflammation, redness, hives, and more, we recommend using a moisturizer devoid of fragrance, alcohol, and artificial preservatives. 

FAQs 

No! A body lotion is formulated for thicker and less sensitive skin. Applying it on the face regularly can disrupt pH levels, cause flareups, lead to clogged pores, and more.

2. What is better for dry skin: face cream or body lotion? 

Face cream and body lotion serve different purposes in your daily routine. Face cream revives dry, beat-looking skin on the face. Whereas a body lotion is formulated for a larger surface area in your bathing routine.

3. Can face cream be used on hands or body? 

Yes, you can use a facial cream on your hands and body. Having said that, we recommend using a satiating body lotion for thicker, less sensitive skin elsewhere.   

Conclusion 

We are using facial creams on the rest of the body (or vice versa), it's time to rectify this grave error.  Unlike popular belief, facial cream and body lotion are not interchangeable. Packed with antioxidants, humectants, or active ingredients, a moisturizer for the face addresses specific underlying concerns. On the other hand, a body lotion focuses mainly on hydrating and maintaining it for prolonged periods.