Aveeno Daily Moisturising Body Lotion: what it does and how to use it

What does the lotion do?

The lotion's active ingredient is dimethicone, a skin protectant. Its labelled uses include helping protect skin from the drying effects of wind and cold weather. Moisturisers also reduce dryness and help maintain the skin's protective barrier, the outer layer that limits moisture loss. Emollients are moisturising treatments that soften skin and leave a protective film to hold moisture in.134

What is in the US formula?

Colloidal oatmeal is specially prepared oatmeal that mixes into lotions, creams and water. In skincare, it helps hold moisture against the skin and provides a protective barrier against irritants. Those are general properties of colloidal oatmeal; the ingredient name on this Aveeno formula is oat kernel flour. Follow the finished product's directions rather than treating all oat preparations as interchangeable.56

How should you apply it?

1. 1Take a short bath or shower in warm water, lasting five to ten minutes. Use a gentle cleanser only where needed, rather than covering dry skin in a thick lather.
2. 2Gently pat your skin with a clean towel. Leave skin slightly damp instead of rubbing it completely dry.
3. 3Apply the lotion immediately after washing. Smooth it gently over the skin in the direction your hair grows, rather than rubbing vigorously.
4. 4Reapply when skin feels dry or tight and after washing your hands. Aveeno's directions are to apply as needed.

You can fit application into either a morning or evening routine. General moisturiser guidance allows application after bathing and at other times: slightly dry skin can need only a light moisturiser at night, while more severe dryness needs more frequent application. Use the condition of your skin to decide when to reapply, rather than assuming one application must last until tomorrow.3

What results should you expect?

Aveeno advertises healthier looking skin in one day. Aveeno's packaging promises healthier looking skin, which is a more modest assignment than most skincare packaging gives itself. Use the lotion for moisturising and temporary skin protection, not as a deadline for cracked skin to heal. Regular moisturising supports the skin barrier, and general moisturiser benefits are greatest during the first six hours after application.13

When is a cream or ointment a better choice?

The word lotion describes a product type, not a trophy for the most moisturising option on the shelf. Lotions generally spread easily and suit hairy areas or mild dryness. Creams and ointments provide more moisture, making them better options when dry skin needs more than a lighter lotion can give.23

Is it suitable for sensitive skin or eczema?

The US lotion is labelled fragrance free, a useful feature when choosing products for dry, sensitive skin. For eczema, a condition that makes skin itchy and inflamed, choose a fragrance free cream or ointment instead of a lotion. Moisturising belongs in an eczema care routine, but managing flare ups can also require prescribed treatment.7

If you have eczema, test a new skincare product before applying it widely: use an amount about the size of a quarter on the inside of your arm each day for seven to ten days. If the skin stays clear, proceed with use. Fragrance is not the only possible trigger, and allergic skin reactions to topical oatmeal have also been reported. Avoid oat containing skincare if you have a known oat allergy.67

What about using it on your face?

General emollient guidance includes moisturising the face, but choose cautiously if you are prone to acne. Occlusive moisturisers, which form a barrier over skin, can aggravate acne or cause inflamed hair follicles. Do not assume a body lotion will be a good facial moisturiser just because it is fragrance free. Keep this lotion out of your eyes.134

How does it fit with other skin treatments?

If you use a steroid cream or another treatment for a skin condition, leave 20 to 30 minutes between that treatment and an emollient. Ask your doctor which should go first. Separating applications avoids diluting the treatment or spreading it onto areas that do not need it. For sun protection, use a separate broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, alongside shade and protective clothing.24

When should you stop or get medical help?

• Stop using the lotion and ask a doctor if the condition worsens, symptoms last more than seven days, or symptoms clear and return within a few days.
• Tell a dermatologist if moisturiser causes burning, stinging or irritation. Seek advice about new rashes or inflamed hair follicles.
• Do not apply it to deep or puncture wounds, animal bites or serious burns.
• If dryness persists despite regular moisturising and gentler washing, see a dermatologist. Persistent dryness can need treatment beyond a moisturiser.

Use the lotion externally only, store it at room temperature and keep it out of children's reach. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Keep emollient contaminated clothing, bedding and dressings away from flames and cigarettes: washing reduces residue but does not remove it completely. Take care with lotion spills on tiled floors, where moisturising products can create a slipping hazard.1345