The Best Body Oils for Soft and Silky Skin That Glows

[Photo vy Valeria Smirnova]

From lotions to body oils, there are a wide variety of options to choose from when it comes to moisturizing your skin. A lot of it comes down to personal preference (not everyone loves the texture of oil while others, like me, are huge fans) but both serve a purpose and work best when used together.

Lotion is typically water based and has a lighter consistency than oil, so it is quickly absorbed by skin. In addition to softening and repairing skin, it helps keep moisture in and there are various formulations designed to target skincare concerns such as eczema.

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Oil, on the other hand, serves as a protective barrier to lock moisture into skin and it is also used to soften skin as well. By replenishing dry skin with essential lipids, the skin is restored and moisture loss is prevented, in addition to giving skin a nice sheen or glowing effect.

For best results, one should apply lotion first, followed by an oil which will lock in the moisture from the lotion. This is especially helpful during the colder months as well as in the summer (both of which tend to have a drying effect on skin). If you live in a dry climate such as the desert, applying lotion and oil will help keep skin hydrated longer.

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If you’re looking to enhance your bath routine (or you’ve run out of bubble bath), you can drizzle some body oil into the tub for an ultra luxurious experience. I also love body oils with a hint of tint or shimmer in as they add the perfect touch of sparkle and glow to my skin (just apply across the décolleté, arms, and legs and you’ll look like a glowing summer goddess!)

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We’ve rounded up the best body oils for soft and silky skin that will give you the perfect glow. Read on to discover and shop our top picks:.

111SKIN The Vitality Oil ($190)

Target dryness and irritated with this luxurious body oil, which features a stimulating green herbal blend of coriander, marjoram, and wild mint. It infuses the body with energy and exuberance to take on the day. Bergamot, clementine, and cedarwood help promote optimism and relieve physical tension, while lemon, lime, and juniper berry calm skin and open emotional pathways. Tip: For those experiencing fatigue, jet lag or lethargy, this purifying oil is an excellent natural treatment.

Bath & Body Works Solar Shine Shimmer Body Oil ($19.95)

Infused with coconut oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E, this body oil absorbs quickly into skin and leaves it feeling soft with a hint of shimmer. Features fragrance notes of radiant coconut, sunlit tuberose, and bronzed tonka. Dermatologist tested.

Body Drench Emulsifying Body Dry Oil ($14.28)

Indulge your skin and your senses with this weightless dry body oil that works to soothe irritated skin and leaves it with the perfect amount of sheen. The fast-absorbing body oil is formulated with Moroccan argan oil, jojoba oil, and rosemary extract that are clinically proven to restore skin’s moisture and improve elasticity. It dries on contact and has a 360-degree nozzle for easy application. It’s paraben-free and dermatologist-recommended.

Chance of Sunny Head to Toe Oil ($20)

This head to toe body oil is formulated with Bulgarian lavender essential oil to intensely nourish, soothe, and protect the skin barrier from everyday stressors to promote skin’s natural reparative properties. Great for all skin types. Vegan and cruelty-free. Does not contain any parabens, phthalates, sulfates, silicones, petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances or synthetic dyes. To turn your routine into a ritual, dispense some oil into your palms, massage into skin with a focus on tension points, and breathe in deeply, allowing the lavender to calm your senses and melt stress away.

[comfort zone] Tranquility Oil ($102)

Designed for both the bath and body, this silky, aromatic oil is formulated with Amaranth oil and an exclusive blend of essential oils to give the body and mind a complete sense of well-being. Featuring a versatile texture, it gently cleanses the body, leaving skin feeling soft and silky. Its pleasant aromatic notes further enhance a sense of well-being for the mind and body. Ideal for all skin types; 89.3% ingredients of natural origin.

Deon Libra Big Up Body Glaze Oil Serum ($46)

This oil serum is infused with adaptogens to help soothe skin, retain moisture, and aid in combating visible signs of aging and environmental stress. Ingredients include astragalus, known for its anti-inflammatory properties; schisandra to improve skin’s overall appearance and visible signs of environmental stress; reishi to combat fine lines and early signs of aging; holy basis to reduce hyperpigmentation and soothe conditions like eczema; amla to fade dark spots and brighten complexions; and ashwagandga, a skin-calming wound healer with antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dermalogica Phyto Replenish Body Oil ($56)

Replenish, calm, and moisturize with this antioxidant-rich blend of skin-nourishing oils. French plum seed oil, avocado oil, and sunflower seed oil are rich in skin-replenishing omega fatty acids such as linoleic, linolenic and oleic acid plus vitamin E to help protect skin’s lipid barrier. Infused with calming fermented red ginseng, it calms and nourishes to deliver glowing skin. Lightly infused with bright bergamot, neroli, and orange (along with relaxing aromas of patchouli and sandalwood), it leaves skin soft and delicately scented.

Ellis Brooklyn SUN FRUIT Glistening Golden Body Oil ($70)

This divine golden-colored body oil softens skin and leaves a subtle sheen accompanied by the addictive scent of fresh fig, handpicked jasmine, and vanilla planifola. Key ingredients include squalane to visibly soothe redness and hydrate, as well as hydrating jojoba oil and calendula flower extract. Perfect for warm weather and sunny days.

Eminence Organic Skin Care Apricot Body Oil ($34)

This ultra-hydrating apricot oil is blended with an assortment of essential oils, such as grape seed and jojoba, to hydrate and nourish skin so it feels irresistibly soft and supple. (Tip: also makes a great massage oil.) Apricot kernel oil is high in vitamins A, C, and E; grape seed oil reduces the look of lines and wrinkles; jojoba oil nourishes and hydrates; seabuckthorn extract protects and softens skin; pomegranate seed oil is polyphenol-rich with high levels of antioxidants; and Biocomplex2 is a targeted blend of nutrients that ensure long-lasting results.

EWC SLOW Coconut Body Oil ($16.50)

Keep skin soft and hydrated between waxes with this lightweight, fast-absorbing European Wax Center SLOW Coconut Body Oil. Enriched with coconut oil, the super conditioning formula slows hair regrowth and helps visibly reduce hair thickness between waxes with narcissus bulb extract, hydrates for 8+hours without clogging pores, and replenishes and nourishes with coconut oil, chamomile, and sea kelp. The proven hair growth minimizer is extracted from a Narcissus (Daffodil) bulb and is naturally derived, plant derived, ethically sourced, and sustainably made.

Farmhouse Fresh Vanilla Bourbon Body Oil ($29)

This all-natural bourbon body oil features delectable notes of Madagascar vanilla and freshly distilled small batch Texas bourbon—the ultimate treat for your skin and senses. Its full spectrum of skin-revitalizing omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids will instantly soothe and hydrate skin while sealing in softness with a hint of shine.

It includes U.S.-grown, non-GMO soy which is known for its highly moisturizing properties for dry skin and a blend of other oils that offer wonderful benefits to skin including grapeseed and olive fruit, which contain powerful antioxidants. Vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free and sulfate-free. Like all other Farmhouse Fresh products, a portion of proceeds directly help rescued farm animals at the company’s animal sanctuary in McKinney, Texas.

Figaro Apothecary Sheer Botanical Body Oil ($85)

Formulated with sunflower extract, organic sea buckthorn oil, frankincense, vitamin E, rose, and six other botanical oils, this deeply penetrating body oil provides nourishment to dry skin. The incredibly lightweight hydrating oil absorbs quickly into the skin and is made with 100% natural ingredients without sulphates, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, PEGs, or SLSs. Features the pleasant scent of frankincense and rose.

Hempz Herbal Body Oils ($19.99 each)

Drench yourself in moisture with these versatile multi-purpose body oils that are great for skin, nails, shaving, and the bath. Choose from three amazing scents including Sweet Pineapple & Honey Melon, Triple Moisture Fresh Citrus, and Original Herbal Body Oil (a targeted formula that helps reduce appearance of scars and stretch marks).

High On Love Dry Body Oil ($55)

This dry body oil offers non-greasy nourishment for skin and hair that absorbs quickly. It features cannabis seed oil containing essential fatty acids, including omega-3s and omega-6s, softening and hydrating skin. Contains no soaps, parabens, allergens or colorants.

Irene Forte Pistachio Body Oil ($165)

This luxurious anti-aging body oil features breakthrough ingredient, phytomelatonin, the plant version of human melatonin that rejuvenates skin by boosting its renewal process. It works alongside Sicilian pistachio oil to nurture skin and leave it looking and feeling plumper and more supple with regular use. Great for all skin types including mature, dry, and dehydrated.

JACANA Jamaica Body & Massage Oil ($60)

This body oil blends Jamaican hemp and essential oils to deliver head-to-toe relaxation while restoring and revitalizing skin. Great for soothing body aches and sore muscles and promoting whole-body rejuvenation. Also contains organic CBD extract, organic vitamin E, organic jojoba oil, organic grapefruit oil, and organic MCT oil to soothe and soften. Ingredients are grown on the brand’s farm in Jamaica to nurture your well-being.

Jurlique Rose Body Oil ($55)

This lightweight, delicately rose-scented body oil is rich in pure organic botanicals. It intensely hydrates, replenishes, and nurtures skin as well as the senses. Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and fragranced. It's formulated with a beautiful blend of safflower, macadamia, and jojoba oils, which are rich in essential fatty acids to help nourish, hydrate, and soften skin. These highly moisturizing oils help to protect skin from moisture loss. Bonus: can also be used as a massage oil.

Kai Body Glow ($38)

This hydrating and lustrous dry oil body mist is formulated with jojoba oil, aloe, chamomile, and cucumber extracts to moisturize skin and leave a radiant glow. Paraben and sulfate-free, phosphate and gluten-free, cruelty-free. Vegan.

KORA Organics Noni Glow Body Oil ($65)

This luxurious and lightweight body oil provides lasting hydration while softening skin and improving its tone. A nourishing blend of Noni fruit, rosehip and sunflower seed oils leaves skin feeling softer, healthier, and radiant. Fast-absorbing without feeling greasy, it also helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and skin imperfections.

LATHER Hinoki Ginger Renewal Oil ($32)

This lightweight body oil is carefully crafted with treasured ingredients from Asia to nourish and replenish skin and hair. Formulated without silicones, it offers a dry finish, giving the body and hair a soft and supple glow without a greasy after-feel. Features a unique combination of organic sesame, camellia, jojoba, and rosehip seed oils with cucumber seed oil to soften, soothe, and reinforce the skin barrier to prevent moisture loss. The curated blend of hinoki (Japanese cypress), organic ginger, and organic bergamot essential oils provides a refreshing and therapeutic aroma—reminiscent of a restorative walk through the forest.

Leonor Greyl Huile Secret de Beauté ($73)

This multitasking blend of natural oils for hair and body is packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E. It can be used to detangle hair, leaving strands feeling silky and shiny. When applied to skin, it hydrates and protects against premature aging. It’s enriched with organic mongongo, sweet almond, and pomegranate oils., and features the lovely scent of tiaré gardenia and lemon.

My July Imaginary Picnic Body Oil ($60)

Scented with sweet marjoram, bergamot, and lemon essential oils, this body oil nourishes and hydrates skin while adding some aromatherapy to your self-care routine. Can also be added to the bath for extra moisturizing power. Also contains MCT oil, which easily metabolizes into skin. Suitable fro all skin types and ages. My July is vegan and Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, and all products are made in small batches in Los Angeles.

Nabila K Polynesian Monoi Body Oil ($13-$33)

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this custom-blended, all-natural body oil from the Pacific Islands. Inspired by the glowing skin and hair of the women in the South Pacific, this formulation uses many of the ancient ingredients that have been used in this area of the world for centuries. Pure extract from the Monoi de Tahiti Tiare flower is blended with coconut, avocado, and sesame oils for an amazing and fast-absorbing oil that hydrates and softens skin.

nativaSPA Madagascar Vanilla Soothing Body Oil ($26)

This soothing vanilla oil is combined with the powers of pure quinoa oil and sustainably sourced Madagascar vanilla, making it the perfect blend to nourish and calm skin and your whole self. The unique sweet aroma features a cozy and warm vanilla scent combined with a touch of lemon. You can also mix a few drops into your lotion for an extra layer of moisture and firmness. (Fun Fact from nativaSPA: Women in Brazil use their oils in the shower, and after lotion for an additional glow.)

Oak Essentials Dew Body Oil ($58)

This lightweight body oil absorbs instantly and improves tone and texture from head to toe. Key ingredients include organic safflower seed oil to diminish the appearance of dry skin, borage seed oil to improve health and appearance of skin tissue while reducing redness and inflammation, and organic sesame seed oil to keep skin moisturized and reduce oxidative stress.

Odacite C-Glow Hydra-Firm Body Oil ($48)

This face-grade firming formula combines the lasting, non-greasy hydration of a body oil with a double dose of vitamin C  to offer a more firm, luminous, youthful appearance and irresistibly soft, supple skin. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is an advanced, stabilized, oil-soluble form of vitamin C that absorbs deeper to deliver firming and brightening benefits to skin. Kakadu plum is a native Australian fruit known for its healing medicinal properties and has one of the highest vitamin C contents in nature.

Omorovicza Firming Body Oil ($81)

Aromatic and invigorating, this Firming Body Oil promotes the appearance of youthful elasticity. This luxurious oil also helps to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and leaves skin hydrated, soft and silky-smooth. Formulated with sweet almond oil, vitamin E, and essentials oils including sage, chamomile, rosemary, rose, and geranium.

ONYX Hydrating Dry Body Oil & Essence Duo in Coconut Bliss ($7)

This shake-activated formula revitalizes skin by combining a nourishing essence with a hydrating body oil. The unique bi-phase delivery features ingredients like sea buckthorn seed oil, known for its skin-hydrating and collagen-promoting properties. This lightweight formula is a 99% natural elixir that effortlessly absorbs, leaving skin feeling rejuvenated and nourished. Crafted with care and free from phthalates, mineral oil, and parabens, the vegan-friendly dry body oil is designed to bring a touch of indulgence to everyday skincare rituals.

OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil ($84)

This seaweed-infused body oil is clinically proven to instantly improve the look of skin elasticity and deliver deep moisture. To create this unique oil, OSEA soaks hand-harvested Undaria Algae in barrels of oils to infuse the vitamins and minerals. Skin receives a rush of antioxidant-rich hydration that softens, nourishes, and firms while visibly improving skin for a toned and sculpted look. Enjoy the intoxicating aromatherapy blend of grapefruit, lime, and cypress with mango and mandarin notes for the ultimate sensory experience.

Oyin Handmade After Bath Luxurious Blended Body Oil ($11.99)

Blended by hand using the most luxurious oils, this petroleum-free blend absorbs fast into skin, nourishing and locking in moisture. Formulated with coconut oil and black cumin seed oil, this gently moisturizing body oil is perfect for hydrating skin after a bath, shower or massage. Can also be used as a nighttime oil or massage oil. Fragrance-free.

Perricone MD Essential Fx ACYL-Glutathione Chia Body Oil ($69)

This fast-absorbing dry body oil conditions all areas of the body including those where you need it the most (such as elbows, knees, and ankles) with essential moisture and intense nourishment. With skin-smoothing lipids and a vitamin F blend, including omega-rich chia seed oil, this non-greasy, nutrient-packed oil replenishes thin, fragile skin for a more supple, tighter appearance. Features a natural aromatic rose scent.

PHLUR Missing Person Body Oil ($45)

This silky, lightweight body oil is infused with ceramide-rich floral oils and skin-mimicking lipids that nourish and easily absorb into skin. Formulated to layer with PHLUR’s collection of fine fragrances to boost scent longevity. Features the delicate yet addictive fragrance of Missing Person, which is brought to life by white musk, jasmine, orange blossom, and soft transparent woods.

Rahua Body Oil ($60)

Made with plant-powered Symbiotic oils meticulously cultivated in the Amazon Rainforest, this delicate body oil mist is fast-absorbing, lightweight, and hydrating. It’s filled with omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, and vitamins C and E that work to deeply moisturize dry skin. Highly efficacious and lightly scented with natural rainforest botanicals, this body and massage oil will make skin look and feel luminous and healthy.

SABON Beauty Oil ($40)

This lightweight and quickly absorbed beauty oil nourishes the body and hair with a luminous finish. Formulated with argan oil to revitalize skin and restore shine to hair; jojoba oil to soothe and soften; camellia oil, which is an excellent emollient for keeping hair and skin moist and supple; and macadamia oil, which contains high levels of selenium, zinc, and heart-healthy fatty acids. The body oil glides on like silk and leaves skin with a non-greasy glow. Available in six scents including White Tea, Patchouli Lavender Vanilla, Delicate Jasmine, Green Rose, Lavender Apple, and Ginger Orange.

Saltair Exotic Pulp Nourishing Body Oil ($22)

This nourishing body oil is formulated with a replenishing blend of oils including fermented saururus, kukui, cacay, and squalane along with a biomimetic blend of plant actives and sea buckthorn oil that absorb easily and leave skin dewy and glowing. Cruelty-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, and vegan. Smells like a tropical escape with notes of juicy orange, guava, and driftwood.

Tatcha Hinoki Hydrating Body Oil ($58)

This fast-absorbing, indulgent body oil eases stress and lifts your mood while sealing in moisture and softening rough patches for supple skin. This formula is proven to ease stress, calm the mind, lift the mood, and care for skin with Hinoki wood essential oils known to contain phytoncides: chemical compounds emitted by trees scientifically proven to improve well-being.

The Honest Company Calm Body Oil ($9.89)

This lightweight, lavender-infused body oil is made with coconut, avocado, and olive oils and is designed to seal in moisture after little ones’ bath or shower. Gentle enough for daily use, the vegan formula helps soothe dry, itchy skin, moisturize and nourish, and keep skin soft and hydrated. The calming lavender aroma helps promote a relaxing vibe before bed.

TOCCA Olio Sublime Profumato Scented Dry Body Oil ($54)

This luxurious scented dry body oil absorbs instantly and feels like a light veil of scent on skin. The fine fragrance-style experience features a silky dry oil blend of argan, jojoba and vitamin E, resulting in skin that is glowing, soft, and lightly scented. Clean, vegan, and antioxidant-rich for deeply nourishing benefits, Olio Sublime Profumato is designed for all-in-one daily self-care use and is available in the brand’s signature modern scents including Florence, Stella, Cleopatra, Giulietta, and Colette.

Tronque Vitamin C Body Oil ($120)

This potent yet lightweight body oil features a combination of Vitamin C THD (50x more effective than L-Ascorbic Acid), advanced patented ceramides, and a revolutionary biotech lipid complex. Together, the skin-perfecting heavyweights join a line-up of vitamin-rich plant oils to help slow skin aging, prevent fine lines and wrinkles, and protect skin’s natural moisture barrier against irritation and dehydration.

UMA Rose Rapture Body Oil ($98)

Indulge in this luxurious body oil crafted with ancient royal wisdom and modern indulgence in mind. The potent oil boasts the nourishing and rejuvenating benefits of precious rose, revered by the queens of the Moghul empire. Other ingredients include grapeseed, moringa, and pomegranate. Organic and free from synthetic fragrances and emulsifiers, preservatives, parabens, GMOs, and mineral oils. Not tested on animals.

[Photos courtesy of brands]

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk