Quick answer: Body care comes down to a short, warm shower, a gentle fragrance-free cleanser, gentle exfoliation once or twice a week, and moisturizer on damp skin. The AAD suggests limiting showers to 5 to 10 minutes and applying moisturizer while skin is still damp (AAD).
Table of Contents
A 6-step body care routine
- Keep showers short and warm. The AAD suggests 5 to 10 minutes with warm, not hot, water (AAD).
- Use a gentle cleanser. Apply it only where needed.
- Exfoliate once or twice a week. A scrub or mitt, with light pressure.
- Pat dry. Blot with a towel instead of rubbing.
- Moisturize right away. Apply while skin is still damp.
- Protect exposed skin. Sunscreen on arms, neck and legs when they’re out.
Want the exact order? See our shower routine guide.
Lotion, cream or ointment?
| Texture | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lotion | Light, spreads fast | Warm weather, normal skin |
| Cream | Richer, more cushion | Dry skin, cold weather |
| Ointment or balm | Thick, stays on top | Very dry spots like heels and elbows |
For dry skin the AAD prefers ointments or creams over lotions, and suggests ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, petrolatum or shea butter (AAD).
Prefer a rich, traditional balm? Read our guide to beef tallow for skin.
A weekly body care plan
| When | Body care step | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Every shower | Gentle cleanser, pat dry, moisturize on damp skin | 5 to 10 minutes |
| Once or twice a week | Sugar scrub, mitt or glycolic body wash | An extra 2 minutes |
| Daily, when outside | Sunscreen on exposed skin | 1 minute |
| Every night | Hand cream and lip balm | 1 minute |
Good body care is mostly about habits, not expensive products. Warm, short showers, a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer you like using will keep skin feeling soft for most people. Add exfoliation once or twice a week for a smoother feel.
Change your body care with the seasons. In cold, dry weather, many people switch from lotion to a cream or balm and pay extra attention to hands, elbows, knees and heels. In warm weather, a lighter lotion often feels better.
Body care on a budget. You don’t need a shelf full of products. A gentle body wash, one moisturizer and one exfoliating option cover the basics. Buy bigger sizes of what you use most, and skip products that only add fragrance.
Listen to how your skin feels after each step. If it feels tight after showering, try a milder cleanser or a shorter shower. If it feels rough, add a gentle exfoliating step once a week. If it feels greasy, switch to a lighter moisturizer. Small changes like these, made one at a time, are the easiest way to build a body care routine that suits you. Keep a note of what you change so you can see what makes a difference over a few weeks.
Exfoliation options
- Sugar scrub: a simple scrub you can make at home.
- Glycolic body wash: a no-scrub option for smooth-feeling skin.
- Exfoliating scrubber: mitts, gloves and cloths.
The AAD says to pick a method that suits your skin type and to be gentle (AAD). Choose one exfoliating step, not all three on the same day.
Fragrance-free vs unscented
The AAD recommends products labeled “fragrance-free” rather than “unscented,” because unscented products can contain odor-masking ingredients (AAD). Patch test anything new. The AAD suggests applying a new product to a quarter-sized spot on the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow twice a day for 7 to 10 days, and stopping if your skin reacts (AAD).
Body care mistakes to avoid
- Long, hot showers. Keep them short and warm.
- Scrubbing every day. Once or twice a week is plenty.
- Waiting to moisturize. Damp skin holds on to moisturizer better.
- Skipping gloves. The AAD suggests gloves for dishes and gardening.
We haven’t lab-tested these tips. They’re general beauty habits. This is a beauty guide, not medical advice. For any skin, scalp or nail concern, talk to a board-certified dermatologist.
FAQ
What is a good body care routine?
A short warm shower, a gentle cleanser, exfoliation once or twice a week, patting dry and moisturizing on damp skin.
How often should I exfoliate my body?
Once or twice a week works for most people. Go gentler if your skin feels sensitive.
Is cream better than lotion for dry skin?
The AAD prefers ointments or creams over lotions for dry skin (AAD).
When is the best time to put on body lotion?
Right after showering, while your skin is still slightly damp.
Written by Mahmoud Abdelmaksoud.
1 comment