Choosing a body wash and lotion
Body skin is thicker than facial skin and takes more of a beating from hard water, which is most of Pakistan. The pattern that works for nearly everyone is a wash that does not strip, then a lotion within a few minutes of getting out of the shower.
Dry, itchy or tight skin
Oatmeal is the ingredient with the longest track record for calming itch. The Soothing Oatmeal & Shea Butter Body Wash (Rs 1,400) and the matching lotion (Rs 1,670) are the pair to use through winter.
Rough patches on arms and legs
An exfoliating wash does more for bumpy upper arms than a scrub once a week. The Exfoliating Sea Salt & Pacific Kelp Body Wash (Rs 1,770) and the Pink Lemon & Mandarin version (Rs 1,840) both work on that.
Ageing or crepey skin
Collagen & Elastin Hand & Body Lotion (Rs 1,690) is the heavier option, and the Rose & Argan Oil lotion (Rs 1,840) is the one to reach for if you want a scent that lingers.
Everyday hydration
Vitamin E & Avocado (Rs 1,760) and Coconut & Orchid (Rs 1,690) are the lighter daily lotions, which matters in summer when a thick cream sits on the skin.
When to apply
Within three minutes of towelling off, on skin that is still slightly damp. Lotion works partly by sealing in water, so a fully dry body gets less from the same bottle.
Body Care FAQs
How often should I use a body scrub or exfoliating wash?
Two or three times a week is enough for most people. Daily scrubbing irritates the skin and can make dryness worse, particularly in winter.
Why is my body skin dry even though I moisturise?
Usually the timing or the water. Apply lotion within three minutes of showering while skin is damp, and avoid very hot showers, which strip the oils faster than any lotion replaces them.
What helps bumpy skin on the upper arms?
That is usually keratosis pilaris. An exfoliating body wash used a few times a week, followed by a lotion, softens it. It is harmless and tends to improve with consistency rather than force.
Can I use body lotion on my face?
Better not to. Body lotions are richer and more heavily fragranced, which on facial skin can clog pores or cause irritation.