In the skincare industry, you see plenty of terms thrown out interchangeably, though there are clear differences between them.
Exfoliator and scrub, cleanser and face wash, oil and serum – and most famously, lotion and moisturizer.
But what’s the difference between lotion and moisturizer? Are they used for the same purpose?
That’s what I’m here to reveal!
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The Difference Between Lotion and Moisturizer
Moisturizer is a broad umbrella term that includes all moisturizing products, including creams, lotions, moisturizing gels, and ointments.
Meanwhile, a lotion is a type of moisturizer with a light formula that contains more water and less oil.
Lotions are typically made for easy application over large areas, and they’re used for general hydration.
While moisturizers can vary in their oil and water content, depending on their purpose. Their main goal is to prevent moisture loss and improve the function of your skin barrier.
Lotion Vs Moisturizer Vs Cream Vs Ointment
Are you still not sure whether to get a cream or a lotion for moisturizing your body? Does the term ‘ointment’ confuse you?
Don’t worry, I had the exact same issue! Here’s a brief rundown of the definition of each of these terms:
- Moisturizer: A broad term that includes lotions, creams, and ointments. May vary in thickness and oil content depending on the intended usage.
- Lotion: A moisturizer with a light formula that contains more water than oil.
- Cream: A thicker formula than lotions with a good balance of water and oil. Mostly suitable for facial and body use.
- Ointment: A formula with more oil than water, mostly meant for dry and damaged skin. It’s thicker than both lotions and creams, and it tends to have a greasy feel. Not suitable for oily skin.
Tips to Use Lotion Correctly
If you want to start using lotions but aren’t sure how to get the most benefit out of them, here are a few tips to help you:
Consider Your Specific Needs
Before choosing your lotion, consider your skin type, whether it’s dry, oily, combination, or sensitive.
You’ll also want to address your skin’s specific condition, like acne or eczema.
Apply to damp skin
The correct way to use a lotion is to apply it to damp skin after washing your face or body.
Do your layering correctly
If you’re using multiple products, follow the correct layering order to get the most benefit out of your lotion.
For your face and body, apply any treatments or serums before the lotion. For your face, apply the lotion before the sunscreen.
Tips to Use Moisturizer Correctly
Here are some tips to get the most out of your moisturizer, whether it’s for your face or body:
Apply toner beforehand
Applying toner before moisturizer allows for better absorption and balances your skin’s pH.
Use the right amount
For your face, don’t add too much moisturizer. It may clog your pores or cause a greasy feeling.
For your body, start with a small amount and add more if necessary.
Use twice daily
Whether it’s for your face or body, make sure to moisturize at least once daily. If your skin is dry, it’s better to do it twice – in the morning and night.
Adjust for seasons
For the winter, use a thicker moisturizer to combat dryness. For the summer, opt for a lotion with a light formula to avoid sweat build-up and greasiness.
Product Recommendations: Lotions and Moisturizers
Now that you know the difference between lotions and moisturizers, it’s time to pile up your shopping cart!
The summer is closing in, and you’ll need something other than sweat to moisturize your skin.
Here are my top picks:
For Facial Use
Moisturizer: The CeraVe moisturizing cream is excellent for normal and dry skin. It contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides, accounting for long-lasting hydration.
Lotion: The Olay Complete Moisturise and Glow Face And Neck Lotion contains a blend of vitamins E, B3, and C, providing hydration and broad-spectrum protection from UV rays.
For Your Body
Moisturizer: The Eucerin Advanced Repair body cream is the ultimate moisturizer for dry skin. It offers intense hydration and helps soften rough areas like knees and elbows. It might be heavy for oily skin, though.
Lotion: The Vaseline Intensive Care Body Lotion is ideal for dry skin. Its key ingredient is cocoa butter, which deeply moisturizes and leaves your skin with a subtle glow.
Final Thoughts
In short, the difference between lotion and moisturizer is that a lotion is a light formula, while moisturizer is a term that describes any moisturizing product, regardless of its thickness and content.
Lotions are ideal for the summer because they don’t leave the skin all greasy. On top of that, they’re perfect for oily skin because their light formula doesn’t clog the pores.