Latest news with #moisturizing
Forbes
2 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
The Best Lotions For Dry Skin, Vetted By Experts
Any ordinary lotion can serve as a temporary fix for dryness, but we've found that it takes a more sophisticated formula to support healthy skin in the long run. Moisturizing ingredients are a good start, but other factors—like the firming properties found in the best lotions for dry skin—cater to a wide array of other concerns. That's why we chose Soft Services Carea Cream as our top pick overall; it pairs gentle exfoliation with lightweight, quick-absorbing moisture. An expert-approved option for concerns like eczema is Aveeno's Eczema Therapy Nighttime Itch Relief Balm. The best body lotions for dry skin come recommended by dermatologists to help skin glow. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS Those with dry skin get the most relief from ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which support the skin barrier and help with hydration. 'Ceramides are naturally found in our skin, and they help to retain moisture,' says dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. And, despite their nourishing abilities, these ingredients can come in non-greasy formulas, too. We consulted with deputy editor Jane Sung and other skincare experts to round up the best lotions for dry skin that combine soothing comfort with speedy, effective results. Our Top Recommendations Best Lotion Overall For Dry Skin: Soft Services Carea Cream Best Body Cream For Dry Skin: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Best Drugstore Lotion For Dry Skin: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion Best Luxury Lotion For Dry Skin: La Mer The Reparative Body Lotion Best Lotion For Dry, Mature Skin: Osea Anti-Aging Body Balm Best Fragrance-Free Lotion For Dry Skin: Nécessaire The Body Lotion Soft Services Soft Services Carea Cream Key ingredients: Urea, glycerin, squalane, colloidal oatmeal | Size: 11 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $3.63 Rather than simply hydrate skin, this cream goes the extra mile by gently exfoliating skin as it nourishes; this allows its moisturizing ingredients, such as squalane and colloidal oatmeal, to better penetrate and smooth, soften and firm skin. It sloughs away dead skin cells with the help of urea, which doesn't cause irritation. For these reasons, not only is this cream great for dry skin, but it can be a good option for addressing body acne and keratosis pilaris. First Aid Beauty First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, glycerin, shea butter, allantoin | Sizes: 2 ounces, 6 ounces, 8 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $6.33 Dermatologist Dr. Ranella Hirsch likes this heavy duty cream because it contains skin-soothing colloidal oatmeal, an emollient rich in fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that allow it to repair cracks in the skin barrier. Plus, the sensitive skin-friendly pick is free of fragrance, parabens, mineral oil and lanolin (an ingredient derived from sheep's wool that can be an allergen). Despite having a thicker consistency than most of the lotions on this list, reviewers say it still absorbs quickly. MOST POPULAR CeraVe CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion Key ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides | Sizes: 8 ounces, 12 ounces, 16 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $1.14 CeraVe has a cult-following for good reason. It's an affordable drugstore brand with high-quality ingredients and textures, says Hirsch, who especially likes this oil-free lotion for face and body. Made with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, it's a dependable option for anyone, whether you need a boost of moisture in cold, dry months or are prone to eczema (since it has the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance). The gentle, fragrance-free formula is also a top pick in our roundup of the best moisturizers for sensitive skin. Nordstrom La Mer The Reparative Body Lotion Key ingredients: La Mer miracle broth (anti-irritant), glycerin, algae extract | Size: 5.4 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $33 Like many of La Mer's products, this fast-absorbing lotion (which deputy editor Jane Sung considers a favorite) includes the brand's miracle broth, which minimizes irritation and visible signs of aging. It has a lightweight feel and absorbs quickly, without any residue or stickiness that might be associated with other body hydrators. La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Cream Key ingredients: Prebiotic thermal water, shea butter, glycerin, niacinamide | Sizes: 2.5 ounces, 6.7 ounces, 13.5 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $1.48 Hirsch swears by this cream from French brand La Roche-Posay—as do many reviewers on Amazon, where it has thousands of positive reviews. The formula contains prebiotics to help rebalance the skin's microbiome and is designed to provide 48 hours of hydration to the face and body. The sensitive skin-friendly cream is fragrance-free, and also contains calming niacinamide. Aveeno Aveeno Eczema Therapy Nighttime Itch Relief Balm Key ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, glycerin, ceramides | Size: 11 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $2.36 The hands, elbows, torso and backs of knees—where there are fewer oil glands—are more prone to itchiness as well as itch-related skin conditions like eczema. Besides avoiding hot showers, Hirsch recommends applying a steroid-free balm like this one, which has the National Eczema Association's Seal of Approval. Enriched with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides, it can help smooth and soothe scaly, itchy skin. It's billed as a night treatment because of the immediate itch relief, which can help you get a good night's sleep—but the cream can really be used any time you'd like to reap its itch-controlling benefits. Osea Osea Anti-Aging Body Balm Key ingredients: Safflower seed oil, coconut oil, alaria esculenta seaweed, passion fruit seed oil | Sizes: 1 ounce, 5 ounces, 9.2 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $9.13 This multitasking balm features a blend of safflower seed and coconut oil, both of which lock in moisture for long-lasting hydration. It also contains alaria esculenta seaweed, which is known to help firm skin while improving its elasticity over time. Reviewers love its light, citrus scent, too. Sephora Nécessaire The Body Lotion Key ingredients: Niacinamide, glycerin, jojoba seed oil, peptides | Sizes: 2.4 ounces, 6.8 ounces, 15.2 ounces | Price per fluid ounce: $4.41 This rich lotion—formulated sans fragrance—hydrates and strengthens the skin with a potent blend of niacinamide, glycerin and plant oils. Lifestyle editor Katherine Louie, who has used this product consistently for the past year, appreciates how soft and smooth this leaves her sensitive skin: 'I have seasonal eczema, and this works well year-round when I'm having flare-ups. The formula sinks in quickly and doesn't feel greasy or sticky, which is a pet peeve with other body products I've used in the past.' At Forbes Vetted, we've researched, written and published dozens of skincare stories stories. Our coverage includes roundups of the best body oils, best face moisturizers and more. This article was written by Kari Molvar, a former Forbes Vetted deputy editor with extensive experience reporting on beauty topics. Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung edited this story. She oversees the beauty, fashion and travel verticals for the site and has written about the best LED face masks and the best laser hair removal devices. We also included key insight from board-certified dermatologists Dr. Karan Lal and Dr. Ranella Hirsch. They each gave their recommendations and insights on what to look for in a lotion for dry skin. We regularly update this story to ensure our recommendations remain relevant. In the July 2025 update, lifestyle editor Katherine Louie refreshed the frequently asked questions and added two new picks: La Mer The Reparative Body Lotion, our favorite luxury lotion for dry skin, and Nécessaire's The Body Lotion, which is an excellent option if you're looking for a fragrance-free formula. We've researched top ingredients and formulas on the market to determine the best lotions for dry skin. We closely assessed the formulations and ingredients to evaluate those that address dry skin specifically. We also considered details like the texture and fragrance, and factored in the possibility of other skin concerns like eczema, keratosis pilaris and body acne, as well as signs of aging. The experts we interviewed shared their input on the formulations they often recommend to their own patients, as well as tips on choosing the best lotions for dry skin. User ratings were also taken into consideration; each body lotion on this list has earned an average score of 4 out of 5 stars or higher. Before you purchase a body lotion for dry skin, keep in mind that you'll want to take the time to choose one that suits your individual skin goals and concerns. Both of our experts recommend keeping the following factors in consideration while you shop. Moisturizing Ingredients When sizing up body lotions, look for key ingredients: humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which hold in water; emollients like ceramides, which strengthen skin's barrier; and occlusives like petrolatum, which trap in moisture. The balance of these ingredients can determine how hydrating a body lotion is, as well as influence its exact texture, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ranella Hirsch. Skin Type Not all dry skin has the same needs. If you have eczema-prone skin, a formula with ceramides and glycerin will help soothe itchy patches or flares. If you're prone to acne below the neck, on the other hand, opt for a cream that is oil-free. Also, there are many lotions that treat mature skin, which is prone to laxity and sagging—and therefore benefits from lotions that have retinol, a derivative of vitamin A. 'Retinol helps firm skin as the other major moisturizing ingredients help soften skin, so it appears less crepey,' says Dr. Karan Lal. Texture Since textures can vary, ultimately you'll want to decide what you're most comfortable with. If you love a thicker cream, opt for a rich, buttery formula. If you prefer feeling like you don't actually have anything on your skin, seek a lotion with a lightweight and fast-absorbing texture, like La Mer The Reparative Body Lotion. Scent Another feature to consider in a body lotion is the scent. While perfumes are generally not harmful to the skin, they can be drying, says Lal—and potentially cause irritation for those with dry skin. If you prefer an added fragrance and have never had a reaction (like a rash), then you can choose a scent based on your personal preferences. What Is The Most Effective Moisturizer For Dry Skin? After extensive research, we determined that the most effective moisturizer for dry skin is the Soft Services Carea Cream, which gently exfoliates, hydrates and nourishes the skin. Standout ingredients include urea, glycerin, squalane and colloidal oatmeal. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option, you can't go wrong with CeraVe's Daily Moisturizing Lotion. What Type Of Lotion Is Best For Dry Skin? Not all dry skin has the same needs, so consider any skin concerns, such as eczema, keratosis pilaris and body acne, before choosing a formula. Generally speaking, look for lotions that include humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, emollients like ceramides and occlusives like petrolatum, which help trap moisture. What Is The Best Dermatologist-Recommended Moisturizer For Dry Skin? The board-certified dermatologists we consulted recommend several picks that we highlight in this guide. Our experts like First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream if you're looking for a formula with a thicker consistency; CeraVe's Daily Moisturizing Lotion for an affordable yet effective option; La Roche-Posay's Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Cream for extra dry, sensitive skin; and Aveeno's Eczema Therapy Nighttime Itch Relief Balm for those with eczema.
The Sun
04-06-2025
- Health
- The Sun
I hate my rough feet so tried three budget products to get them soft and flip flop ready – a £1.99 buy worked wonders
BEST FOOT FORWARD You can get them on your local high street too All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue. SOME people can make thousands of pounds selling pictures of their feet on the Internet. But I'm pretty sure you'd pay me NOT to see mine - they're horrible. 7 I've never particularly liked feet, especially my own, after years of battling verrucas and ingrown toenails have left them looking less than pretty. However, with the sun coming out for summer, the likelihood is that I'll be wearing sandals at least for a few days. So I wanted to see if there was any budget-friendly products that could possibly help get my dry tootsies - complete with cracked, rough heels - looking better, if only slightly. I decided to try three different options over three different nights, to see which one had an immediate noticeable effect, and which one is definitely not worth buying. Cream machine Boots Deep Moisturising Foot Cream, £4.50 It's most common to apply foot cream before bed, as you don't end up slipping and sliding everywhere if you need a wee in the middle of the night. But creams designed to help reduce rough, cracked skin are often so thick that they take forever to sink in. That wasn't the case with Boots' foot cream. I lathered it on about 10 minutes before getting under the covers, to try and give it enough absorbing time. Woman's feet turn yellow after stress triggers debilitating condition But as it was, I didn't need to leave it that long - as it had fully absorbed after about three or four minutes. The cream also smells divine, thanks to ingredients including mint, lavender and marshmallow, and feels cooling and soothing when it's applied. I didn't hold out a huge amount of hope for the cream to work miracles overnight, so was chuffed when I woke up the next morning to see a difference. The skin felt softer, while the cracking appeared to have healed a little - and felt more comfortable to walk on. The cream is also purse friendly, at just £4.50 for a decent sized tub that looks like it will last at least a few months. Overall I was really impressed, and will definitely repurchase in the future. Here's some tips and tricks to keep your feet in good conditio Soak Start your at-home pedicure by soaking your feet by filling a washing-up-sized bowl with warm water, add a handful of Epsom salts and around a cup of white, or apple cider, vinegar. Add a couple of drops of essential oil, such as eucalyptus or lavender, to make the soak smell heavenly. Scrub Mix two or three spoonfuls of brown sugar with a tablespoon of oil to make your own foot scrub. You can use olive oil or coconut oil. Massage the scrub into your feet for a few minutes and wash off with warm water. Soften Make sure your feet are left silky smooth by using a moisturiser. You can also make a foot mask by mashing up a banana with a sprinkle of oats. Mix in a tablespoon of moisturising honey and another spoon of olive oil. Coat your feet in the mask, wrap in cling film, and let the ingredients work their magic for at least 15 minutes. Scrub a dub dub Boots Sea Minerals & Mint Exfoliating Foot Scrub, £3.99, and Boots Cracked Heel Balm, £4.99 Another way of trying to get rid of dry skin is by using a scrub before applying any cream. So I tried out the Boots' Sea Minerals and Mint exfoliating scrub before slathering my feet in the Boots' Cracked Heel balm. 7 7 Once again, the cream smelt incredible, and made me feet feel all fresh and clean once I'd used it. However, it didn't feel abrasive enough to get rid of dry patches - and seemed more like a face scrub than a foot one. I think it would be better if the exfoliating bits in the scrub were rougher, to try and really get into the dryness and the root of the problem. After using the scrub, I went in with the Cracked Heel Balm. This £4.99 product claims to make a visible difference in just one use. So I was hopeful I'd see a change the morning after using it. The balm itself is very thick, and leaves hands feeling greasy once applied. It also took a long time to sink in, but felt like it was doing something when it did. And when I checked the next morning, one foot seemed to respond to the balm better than the other. The left foot, which isn't as bad as the right, looked smooth, but the right one still looked cracked and rough. I think this is a product that will work well over time - as miracles don't happen overnight! Rating: 3/5 Sock it Superdrug Watermelon Footpack, £1.99 The concept of popping socks on after a foot treatment isn't a new one - but the idea of these clever little footpacks is. The Superdrug socks come in different scents, and I chose to try the Watermelon one. 7 7 Inside the pouch is two plastic 'socks', pumped full of product, and you have to cut the top off each of them before popping them on. I can't say I enjoyed the sensation of putting my foot into the sock itself, but it soon passed. I kept them on for 20 minutes, before taking them off to see the results. The pack instructs you to rub the leftover product into your feet and lower legs, before throwing away the used socks themselves. And after doing so, my feet definitely felt softer - without feeling sticky or greasy. I do like the fact you can pick up one of these packs like you would a face mask for a girl's night in, but obviously there are downsides given that they're one-use only and not particularly environmentally friendly.
News24
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
From heat damage to flaky scalps: 6 hair blunders and how to fix them
So, your hairstylist isn't available, and you've managed to reverse the amazing work she's been doing for months? Don't worry, we've got you covered. 1. Tight plaits Ever walked out of the hair salon looking snatched, but feeling that tingling on your scalp and just shrugging it off, thinking it will pass? Fast-forward to bedtime and your scalp feels like it's on fire and you're about to rip the braids off or fetch your child's paper scissor to help you. The slightest tinge of pulling or tightness at the salon must be met with a stern, 'please undo that plait immediately'. Remember, losing your hair to traction alopecia is not reversible! We recommend that you undo the braids ASAP. But if you choose to soldier on, then wash your hair in warm water, apply a leave-in conditioner and don't tie it up. 2. Flaky scalp and itchiness The tricky part about solving this problem is that products specifically targeting it will oftentimes dry out the hair. This then becomes a catch-22 situation. Well, this is what we recommend. Double up – alternate between an anti-fungal shampoo and a moisturizing one. For the anti-fungal product, look out for ingredients like ketoconazole and zinc pyrithione. For the moisturising shampoo, ingredients like shea butter and oils will do. @truelovemagazine Ever wondered why Nomalanga Shozi always rocks big hair? Well, here's your answer. #truelovemagazine #nomalangashozi #truelovehair ♬ original sound - TRUELOVE 3. Losing hair Your hair may fall off because of several reasons – from heightened levels of stress and a change in products to styling tools and hormonal fluctuations. But if you're certain the reason it's clogging up the shower drain is from skipping that necessary treatment or visit to your stylist because you thought you could manage at home, we can help you. But first, ditch heat styling tools and those products that might break your hair. Let it dry out naturally. Your scalp will also need TLC, so get a scalp oil or hot oil treatment. And, you'll be wrong to assume not washing your hair will mean less loss. Look for shampoos and conditioners that are sulphate-free and free of parabens. Lastly, try beauty from the inside out, with a supplement that promotes hair growth and curbs further loss. 4. Over processing Say, you walk down the hair aisle and bat twice at the at-home relaxer kit. If you buy it, you might treat yourself to lunch because you saved cash. Well, at-home relaxer kits are safe, but only if you follow the instructions carefully – the strand test, time as well as dos and don'ts. Fast-forward to the aftermath and your hair doesn't look like that of the model on the box. The first thing your strands need is a protein (keratin) treatment. But be careful because too much protein can dry it out and lead to breakage. To balance out the protein, alternate with a deep hydration treatment or mask. If this doesn't help, maybe it's time for a pixie cut. @truelovemagazine Wendy Gumede, actress and the new face and voice of Dark and Lovely's #PurpleRange shares a tip for all the relaxed hair girlies. #wendyisdarkandlovely @Wendy Gumede @ ♬ original sound - TRUELOVE 5. Colour blunders Has your attempt to DIY Kelis-inspired ombre blue and blonde hair failed? Of course, it did! Complicated colour techniques, like ombre, and even highlights, should be left to colourists. But for a simple one-dimensional shade or should chopping your hair off fail, then go for it. For those hair fails, here's what you can do till your stylist can slot you in. Don't colour it again! If the colour is too dark, wash it a few more times. If blonde goes a little orange, use a purple toned shampoo. 6. Heat damage If your style needs regular heat styling with either a blow-dryer or flat iron, or sometimes even both, you need to be aware that you can damage your hair. Treatment is better than cure, so invest in a heat protectant product that you can apply before styling. Use a protein treatment to strengthen the hair weekly. Also, a bond builder is a great addition to your routine. Lastly, a smidge of hair oil on the tips of the ends will help make brittle split ends look more healthy.
