If you're part of the dry skin club (hi, yes, me), you know the importance of hydration. Body lotions, serums, and creams are likely your MVPs—and they should be. But if you’re looking to take your skin to a whole new level of hydration (and get a little glowy while you’re at it), the best body oils are going to be your best friend. There are dry oils, shimmery oils, extra-nourishing oils—anything to suit your body care taste. Not to mention, the skincare benefits are plentiful.
“Body oils sit on top of the skin and act almost as a barrier to occlude the skin and prevent trans-epidermal water loss,” explains board-certified dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, M.D. “Body oils help to make the skin soft and supple, while adding an immediate glow to the skin.” In short: It’s a win-win.
Given the laundry list of pros, I’m going to assume you’re interested in adding the best of the best to your routine. I’m happy to report that you’re in luck. I, along with the rest of the Marie Claire team, kind of have a thing for body oils. We’ve tried dozens over the years. We know which cult classics live up to the hype and the new releases that deserve a spot in your bathroom. So whether you’re looking for a glowy oil to consistently provide a healthy sheen, or a fast-absorbing oil for quick and easy hydration all-over, I’ve got you covered. Without further ado, read ahead to shop the best body oils on the market right now.
The Best Body Oils
- The Best Body Oil Overall: Mutha Body Oil
- The Best-Smelling Body Oil: Baccarat Rouge 540 Scented Body Oil
- The Best Derm-Recommended Body Oil: Necessaire The Body Oil
- The Best New-to-Market Body Oil: Eos Shea Better Cashmere Body Oil
- The Best Soothing Body Oil: Ellis Brooklyn Salt Soothing Scented Body Oil
If you're looking for a body oil that truly does it all, meet Mutha. It's absolutely packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids that provide supreme hydration, soften the skin, and help prevent stretch marks. With all-natural oils (rosehip, jojoba, and botanical), the formula is fast-absorbing for a quick and easy all-over glow.
Finish: Slight sheen
Scent: Citrus
What I Love: Fast-absorbing; Vitamin-rich; Helps prevent stretch marks; Softens skin
What I Don't: Some reviewers complain the packaging spills.
Review for MC: "Not long after I saw 'pregnant' on my Clearblue test, I knew I needed to try Mutha—immediately. While the brand isn’t exclusively for mothers (or expecting ones), I couldn’t help but want it to align with my new reality (dramatic, maybe, but I don’t care). This body oil has become a non-negotiable in my routine, and I’ve been using it religiously morning and night on my growing belly (and my arms, chest, and legs) to keep my skin hydrated. So far, I haven’t developed a single stretch mark. It’s impossible to say whether that’s thanks to the formula or genetics, but either way, I have zero plans to stop using it until my little one arrives. The results (plus its heavenly citrusy scent) are why I’m already on my third bottle." — Maris Petrarca, Freelance Beauty Writer
Marisa Petrarca uses Mutha Body Oil
We’ve waxed poetic about the limited-edition Baccarat Rouge Shimmering Body Oil in the past. Alas, the sparkly rendition is saved for the holiday season, so when I can’t get my hands on it, it’s the OG body oil to the rescue. The formula delivers the same intoxicatingly amazing scent as the eau de parfum but is available at a fraction of the price. Because I’m consistently reaching for it, I’ve found that all of my items have started to smell like Baccarat Rouge, which certainly isn’t a bad thing.
Finish: Glowy
Scent: Woody scent with notes of jasmine, saffron, ambergris, and cedar
What I Love: More affordable than the perfume; Lightweight
What I Don't: Smell fades fast
Review for MC: "While this body oil provides a gorgeous glow and super soft skin, the star of the product is the scent. As a long-time Baccarat Rouge fan, I was so excited to see that the delicious smell came in the form of a body oil—and for a more affordable price! When in need of a little extra glow on my clavicles or a longer-lasting scent, I simply pump a few drops of oil onto my skin and gently massage it in. It absorbs quickly, while still leaving behind a subtle glow with no greasy feel." — Emma Aerin Becker, Freelance Beauty Writer
Emma Aerin Becker uses Baccarat Rouge 540 Scented Body Oil
“I'm a huge fan of the Body Oil from Nécessaire,” says Dr. Zubritsky. “It’s full of several different nourishing oils and is enriched with several vitamins, minerals, and omegas. It melts into the skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple without being overly greasy.”
Finish: Glowy
Scent: Grapefruit, geranium, neroli, and red pepper
What I Love: Vegan; Derm-recommended
What I Don't: Requires a lot of product for full coverage
Review for MC: I Nécessaire is one of my all-time favorite brands when it comes to body care, and their body oil is no different. It's super lightweight, leaves my skin feeling so soft, and looks super glowy even after it's been fully rubbed in. My favorite part, however, is that it's dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic — three words my sensitive skin always loves to hear!" — Emma Aerin Becker, Freelance Beauty Writer
Emma Aerin Becker uses Necessaire The Body Oil
When Eos expanded their fan-favorite Vanilla Cashmere collection to include a body oil, I knew I had to get my hands on it. The product delivers 24 hours of weightless moisture with a velvet finish and glow. The thin formula makes it perfect for moisture layering with other products. Plus, it can be applied to wet skin fresh out of the shower, used as a spot treatment on dryer skin sections, or used as a Vanilla Cashmere fragrance boost!
Finish: Velvety glow
Scent: Sweet vanilla scent
What I Love: Can we applied on wet skin; Great smell; 24-hour hydration
What I Don't: May be too thin for some
Review for MC: "Vanilla Cashmere has done it again—body oil style. This product is super lightweight yet gives me incredibly hydrated skin without a greasy residue. I like to apply it onto wet skin right after I shower, and both the scent and moisture last all day long. The scent is delicious, but not too potent. And I can find it at any local drugstore!" — Emma Aerin Becker, Freelance Beauty Writer.
Emma Aerin Becker uses Eos body oil
Ellis Brooklyn's Salt eau de parfum now comes in an ultra-soothing body oil formula. Loaded with squalene and boosted with algae extract, this is scented body care at its finest. The tropical scent is perfectly subtle, and the hydrating formula is never sticky. It doesn't provide the most glowy finish, but sometimes hydration, scent, and soothing properties trump shiny skin anyway.
Finish: Light sheen
Scent: Ambergris, Tahitian tiare, ylang ylang, creamy sandalwood and musk
What I Love: Tropical scent; Soothing algae extract; Never sticky
What I Don't: Little glow
Review for MC: "This is the perfect body oil for someone who prefers the feel of hydration rather than the look of glowing skin. It soothes any dry patches and rough skin, and feels super moisturizing when applied. Rather than a pump or spray packaging, it uses a small dropper to ensure there's no over-application or oil spills. The oil provides the perfect summer scent, but who doesn't want to smell like summer all year long?" — Emma Aerin Becker, Freelance Beauty Writer.
Emma Aerin Becker uses Ellis Brooklyn body oil
Other Body Oils I Love
The Tata Harper Youth Preserving Body Treatment is great for its nourishing ingredients and skin-soothing properties. The antioxidant-rich formula uses primrose oil to smooth out texture, while camellia oil promotes a radiant complexion that will have your skin glowing from within. It works best when applied on damp skin, locking in leftover moisture for a silky smooth, non-sticky feel that lasts.
Finish: Radiant
Scent: Earthy scent
What I Love: Anti-aging; Smoothing; Glowy finish
What I Don't: On the pricier side
Review for MC: “After a little too much sun, I fully realized the potential of great body oil on my skin. My hands-down favorite is this one from Tata Harper—it's not sticky and applies like silk. It also does wonders for dry scalps and dead ends. The smell, a bit herby— but not overpowering— offers a woosh of instant relaxation and lingers all day long. Plus, the application is ultra-easy with the bottle's sleek pump mechanism that prevents oil from getting everywhere.” — Sara Holzman, Style Director
“I love Avene's Skin Care Oil. It fortifies and protects the skin with antioxidants and contains Avene's Thermal Spring Water to reduce irritation and calm skin,” says Dr. Zubritsky. “It absorbs quickly and is relatively lightweight in feel.” The biggest pro however, is its multi-purpose composition. It’s non-comedogenic and approved for acne-prone skin, so feel free to use a few drops as a face oil. If you really want to go wild and crazy, you can also use some of this dry oil on the end of your hair to seal split ends and add some shine.
Finish: Dry
Scent: Mild sweet scent
What I Love: Derm-recommended; Multi-purpose
What I Don't: Spray is a little messy
Customer Review: "I have been searching for high quality Body Oil for a long time. Through my doctors recommendation I purchased Avene Skin Care oil, as my doctors said. Not too greasy and absorbs the skin right away. It stays on for long time. I really recommend Avene Skin Care Oil to everybody to try." — Dermstore
I love fruity fragrance, don’t get me wrong. But there are times when I don’t want to smell too overwhelming. Those occasions, I believe, are the perfect opportunity to let body oil take the lead. This particular oil, while nourishing, hydration, and silky smooth, is my go-to because of its refreshing fig scent. My nose is met by subtle whiffs throughout the day and consistently compliments. If I’m feeling a little extra adventurous, I’ll occasionally use just a drop of product in my hair to make sure the fig is smelled by everyone who walks by me.
Finish: Satin
Scent: Green fig and cedar wood
What I Love: Smells great; Editor-approved; Extra nourishing
What I Don't: Slippery bottle—be careful
Customer Review: "I just purchased my third bottle. The scent is unbelievably true to freshly picked figs. I am amazed how Caudalie has captured that! It absorbs incredibly fast and leaves my skin soft, hydrated and moisturized. I will buy it again, again, and again." — Sephora
I like to glow year-round, but *especially* during the summer months when dresses, shorts, and skirts are of the essence. I’m not one to go all out with body glitter, but I do appreciate a soft shimmer. Enter: Alo’s Head to Toe Glow Oil. I have a stockpile of bottles at home—it’s that good. The formula isn’t sticky and it doesn’t pill. Instead, I find it feels hydrating on my skin thanks to ingredients like marula oil, avocado oil, and aloe, while still managing to dry down relatively fast.
Finish: Glowy
Scent: Citrus
What I Love: Soft shimmer; Great ingredients
What I Don't: Some say it feels a bit sticky
Customer Review: "I got a sample of this and loved it! I’ve been on the hunt for a perfect body oil and this one really impressed me. Feels really nice on your body, absorbs into your skin without leaving you feeling sticky or greasy, and it smells really nice. I ended up ordering the full bottle!" — Nordstrom
A gorgeous texture, stunning bottle, and phenomenal glow are all of note with this body oil. However—the true allure boils down to the incredible ingredient profile. It features the brand’s proprietary repair and renewal complex, and is balanced out by a slew of oils, vitamins, and nourishing ingredients such as squalane and vitamin E. As a result, your skin is going to feel more supple, look smoother, and be incredibly hydrated.
Finish: Dewy
Scent: Fragrance-free
What I Love: Great ingredient profile; Celebrity-loved brand
What I Don't: Expensive
Customer Review: "Augustinus Bader The Body Oil absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any type of residue. I am on my second bottle because I love the results. My skin is soft and it helps reduce moderate cellulite. It is worth the cost. I highly recommend this oil for obtaining healthy skin." — Dermstore
Body oils are sensory-oriented, but rest assured they also pack in loads of benefits. This Costa Brazil option for instance, is an anti-aging powerhouse. Plant-based antioxidants and vitamins work in tandem to reduce fine lines, firm the skin, and restore hydration. Superfruits like passionfruit then swoop in to brighten your overall skin tone and provide lasting radiance. It’s a triple threat—and it has one of the best textures in the game. It’s mastered the whole glowy-never-greasy feel.
Finish: Glittery glow
Scent: Breu branco
What I Love: Anti-aging benefits; Smells great; Shimmer pigments
What I Don't: Expensive
Customer Review: "One of my favorite body oils. The simmer is subtle but still noticeable, even at the end of the day. I like that is it white, many of the gold tones ones stain clothing. The scent is strong but pleasant. It is a richer sent, dark pine and almost velvety that has many masculine elements. I love wearing it to bed." — Bluemercury
You may know (and love) Aesop already for its trend-setting fragrances and chic hand soaps, but one of my favorite products from the popular brand is its body oil. Because this formula is so highly concentrated, all it takes is a single teaspoon and you’re covered. It’s also perfect for adding to other lotions, unscented body creams or butters, or even a warm bath for an extra luxurious, hydrating experience. I’m also obsessed with the scent.
Finish: Shiny
Scent: Green, citrus, fresh
What I Love: Works well with other products; Last a long time
What I Don't: Not extremely hydrating
Customer Review: "Absolutely love this body treatment. I live in a hot, humid climate, so this is used as a light body moisturizer that smooths away the day’s stress. The refreshing scent appeals to just about anyone, and the treatment makes a great gift. Truly one of Aesop’s best innovations." — Nordstrom
What to Look For in Body Oil
- Ingredients
“Body oils should contain a mix of fatty acids and ceramides for best results. The addition of antioxidants is an added bonus,” says Dr. Zubritsky. “Look for ingredients like jojoba oil which closely mimics our body's natural sebum. Other oils like rosehip seed oil (rich in omega fatty acids and known to regenerate and heal skin), sunflower seed oil (rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant known to protect against environmental aggressors), and coconut oil (an excellent hydrator with antifungal and antibacterial properties that can be used even in those with eczema) are also excellent choices.”
- Texture
This is always going to be a personal preference, but nevertheless something that’s very important to consider. You’ll typically find two types of body oils: Glow-giving oils and dry oils. The former you can expect to be a little silkier, whereas the latter will dry down quickly without a shimmery sheen.
What Type of Oil is Best for the Body?
Board-certified dermatologist Angela Brimhall, M.D., notes that it's important to consider your skin type when deciding on what type of oil is the best for your body. "For dry skin, opt for heavier oils like avocado or olive oil," she says. "For oily skin, lighter oils like hemp seed or marula oil can be more suitable."
Long story short, the answer lies in your specific skin needs. Looking for brighter skin? Check for rosehip oil. Want to decrease and prevent the appearance of wrinkles? Moringa oil should be your go-to. And for a classic deep hydration, sweet almond, avocado, and jojoba oils are key.
What Type of Oil is Best for Sagging Skin?
Dr. Brimhall reveals the three key oil ingredients for sagging skin: rosehip oil, argan oil and olive oil.
"Packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins A and C, rosehip oil is known for its ability to improve skin texture and promote collagen production, making it ideal for combating sagging skin," she says.
Additionally, argan oil is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, which helps to improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of sagging.
Olive oil may seem like a silly ingredient for skincare, but as Brimhall explains, it's a powerful antioxidant that's excellent for deep hydration and can support skin’s elasticity over time."
Meet the Experts
Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in general medical dermatology, surgical dermatology, cosmetics, and pediatric dermatology. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she graduated summa cum laude from Washington and Jefferson College in Washington, PA with a degree in Cell/Molecular Biology where she participated in collegiate soccer. She was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States. She then completed her medical school training at Penn State College of Medicine in Hershey, PA where she graduated at the top of her class and was inducted into the esteemed Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She completed a year of internal medicine training during her transitional year at Kettering Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio. She then pursued her residency in dermatology at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center where she served as chief resident. She is passionate about all things dermatology, especially debunking skincare myths and educating the public using her social media platforms. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and serves as one of their social media ambassadors. She is also an editor for the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD), the leading evidence-based peer-reviewed medical journal for dermatologists, and routinely reviews submissions for publication. She has contributed to numerous beauty articles as a skincare and dermatologic expert including Women's Health, Byrdie, InStyle magazine, Forbes, CNN, MSN, Esquire magazine, BuzzFeed, Allure, Yahoo!, The EveryGirl and many more. She has lectured at several national and local conferences and was the guest speaker for Grand Rounds at numerous dermatology residency programs across the country. Dr. Zubritsky utilizes her skills to optimize patient care and strives to form personal connections with her patients in order to build a strong, trusting relationship. She is thrilled to be providing dermatological care on the Mississippi gulf coast and surrounding areas at Premier Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center.
Dr. Angela Brimhall is a board-ceritied dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, as well as the owner of Sage Dermatology. Whether you're concerned about skin cancer, moles, brown spots, skin bumps, melanoma, acne, hair loss, spider veins, eczema, seeking preventative measures such as a full body skin exam, or desiring holistic skin health, Dr. Brimhall is dedicated to providing gold standard treatments.
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