Why do people use lotion?

What does lotion actually do?

Skin becomes dry when it loses too much water. Cold, dry air, indoor heating and frequent handwashing can contribute. Moisturizers help by bringing water into the skin and keeping existing moisture from escaping. Emollients are ingredients that soften skin; ingredients such as glycerin attract water, while ingredients such as petroleum jelly help hold it in.123

Lotion spreads easily because it is thin, which is a useful feature rather than a reason to give it a longer product name. It works well on hairy areas, where spreading a thicker product can be less convenient. Moisturizers also help manage dryness associated with eczema and psoriasis, although these conditions can need other treatment.4

Is lotion the right moisturizer for you?

• For mild seasonal dryness in otherwise normal skin, lotion is often sufficient, especially for younger people.
• For persistently dry or very dry skin, choose a cream or ointment instead. These contain more oil and hold moisture in more effectively.
• For oily facial skin, a lighter gel can be a better fit. Too much moisturizer can clog pores in some people.
• For combination skin, moisturize the dry areas rather than automatically covering the oily areas.
• For sensitive skin, avoid fragrance and introduce only one new product at a time so a reaction is easier to trace.

The best texture depends on how dry your skin is, not on how many adjectives fit on the bottle. Creams sit between lotions and ointments in oil content; ointments are the greasiest but retain the most moisture.5

How should you apply lotion?

1. 1Wash with warm rather than hot water and a gentle cleanser.
2. 2Gently pat your skin dry, leaving it slightly damp.
3. 3Apply lotion promptly after washing, ideally within three minutes of leaving the bath or shower.
4. 4Smooth the lotion gently over dry areas in the direction your hair grows rather than rubbing vigorously.
5. 5Reapply when your skin feels dry or tight, including after washing your hands.

Plain moisturizers without active medicines can generally be used as needed during the day or at night. For very dry skin, an emollient can be applied two to four times daily, or as directed by a doctor. Check the label: a lotion containing hydrocortisone or another active medicine needs its own directions. If you also use a prescription skin treatment, follow your clinician's instructions about order and spacing rather than mixing the products together.145

How long does it take to help?

With effective home care, dry skin tends to improve within two weeks. If lotion is not enough, moving to a cream or ointment is more useful than continuing with a texture that leaves your skin dry. Persistent or worsening dryness can have causes beyond dry air, including medicines or a skin condition.3

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using a lotion that irritates your skin and ask a pharmacist about an alternative. See a dermatologist if dryness does not improve, or becomes painful, cracked, bleeding or very irritating. Seek urgent medical care for a rash accompanied by fever, blistering or rapid spreading.125

Keep emollients away from flames and cigarettes: residue on clothing and bedding makes fabrics easier to ignite. Use a clean spoon or spatula for products in tubs, and take care with slippery bathroom surfaces.4