Despite the fact that I’ve always been passionate about skincare as a beauty editor, I have to admit that body care has historically been somewhat of an afterthought for me. Moisturizing my body post-shower is a step that I’m often guilty of skipping to save a few minutes when I’m rushing to get ready. (I also don’t love the feeling of putting clothes on right after lathering myself in lotion.) In recent years, however, I’ve made an effort to prioritize moisturizing the skin on my body the way that I do my face, thanks in large part to Nécessaire’s The Body Lotion.
The Body Lotion
$22 at Amazon
Formulated with active ingredients like niacinamide and peptides, this firming lotion is a viral TikTok favorite with more than 88 million posts and counting. It’s also Byrdie’s pick for the best overall body lotion. I’ve been a fan of the iconic unscented formula for a little while now, but when I found out that the lotion was launching four new scents, out now on Amazon, Sephora, and the Nécessaire website, I was more than eager to get my hands on them. Below, I’m sharing my impressions of the new launches, plus details from Nécessaire CEO and co-founder Randi Christiansen.
The Body Lotion in Eucalyptus
According to Christiansen, The Body Lotion “moisturizes, firms, and strengthens the skin,” all of which are benefits I noticed right away. The first scent I tried (and my favorite one) was Eucalyptus, and I was thrilled to notice that it left my skin with that same lasting, buttery-soft feeling as the unscented version. As I mentioned above, I’m sensitive to the feeling of greasy residue left behind some moisturizers, and that’s one of the main reasons why I love this lotion. It absorbs super quickly so I can put on my clothes or slip into my sheets a few minutes after applying, yet my skin still feels soft and moisturized.
With notes of Siberian fir and lavender in addition to eucalyptus oil, this lotion has a calming, earthy scent. Whenever I apply it, I feel like I’ve been transported from my tiny East Village apartment bathroom to a luxe spa; it’s already become one of my self-care staples.
The Body Lotion in Olibanum
Not only does The Body Lotion make my skin feel firmer and more moisturized right away, but it also has lasting skincare benefits. “The Body Lotion is infused with 2.5% niacinamide, five peptides, marula oil rich in vitamins C and E, and omegas 6 and 9,” Christiansen told me. “It’s delivering the benefits normally expected by facial-grade treatments and will help those experiencing a loss of elasticity due to aging.”
A popular anti-aging ingredient, niacinamide brightens and helps target premature signs of aging like discoloration and wrinkles. Meanwhile, peptides boost skin firmness by stimulating collagen production. Whether or not signs of aging are on your list of skincare concerns, Christiansen noted that this body cream is suitable for all skin types and ages.
The Body Lotion in Hinoki
As you’ll notice upon the first whiff, the fragrances in this new line are deeply rooted in inspirations from nature. “Spending time in nature is essential to me—it is like sleep, water, food and family,” said Christiansen. “In our scent range we were inspired by trees: eucalyptus, sandalwood (santal), Japanese cedar (hinoki), frankincense (olibanum).” Fragranced without being overpowering, these elevated scents were designed to replace your everyday perfume.
The Body Lotion in Santal
Rounding out the collection is the Santal scent—Christiansen’s personal favorite. “Scents are about experience and the memory of that experience,” she told me, explaining that she plans to spend fall afternoons taking scenic drives through the woods with her husband and dogs. “That visual is Santal to me. It’s warm and comforting.”
Regardless of which scent you gravitate towards, you’re sure to fall in love with these indulgent, perfumed body lotions like I have. Stock up now ahead of winter to keep your skin hydrated all season long.
