*I can not guarantee any results, I am not a doctor or medical professional. Any facts, details & recommendations are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any diseases or illnesses. 

What are body butters? Isn’t it just lotion? What’s the difference? Those are questions I had for a long time.

Body butters are moisturizers that contain some kind of butter (or butters) and a carrier oil or a combination of carrier oils. They are extra effective at treating dry, rough skin and problem areas because they are thicker and heavier than lotions. Lotions are typically made with lightweight hydrators, whereas body butters have a higher amount of heavy moisturizers. Because of this, they have a thicker, creamier consistency. They also tend to have a luxurious feel, so they are great when you’re looking for a self-care moment. One thing I really like about using body butters is they can be firm when you scoop them out of the jar, but once you start to rub it into your skin, the heat from your body melts it almost immediately and it rubs into your skin so nicely!

Lotions typically have a high water content making them thinner, so they spread more easily and absorb into the skin faster. Body butters don’t normally contain water, they are filled with amazing butters like shea, cocoa, mango, kokum for example, and oils like avocado, jojoba, almond, sunflower oil, etc. so they are thicker and can feel a bit more greasy, and they can take a while to completely absorb into the skin. Because it can have that greasy feeling, some people like to put it on their problem areas, such as feet, before bed and put on cotton socks after to help lock the moisture in and not worry about that greasy feeling.

Body butters contain ingredients that are occlusive, meaning they form a protective layer on the skin to protect against water loss and improve moisture. Because they do form a protective layer over the skin, they can be known to clog pores so they aren’t usually recommended for the face. They help replenish the skin’s natural oils and protect the skin from stressors that would otherwise exacerbate dryness or irritation.

How often should I use Body Butter?
How often you should use them is honestly a personal preference. I personally like the feel of the body butter on my skin so I use it daily. If your skin is dry or cracked, it may be best to apply it daily, whereas if your skin is oily or doesn’t need as much moisture, you may want to use it one to two times a week. You can also alternate between using lotion and body butter, or use lotion on some areas and leave the body butters for your problem areas. There really isn’t a right or wrong answer.

How should I use it?
Body butter can go a long way, so take a small (or large, up to you) amount and rub it into the skin in firm strokes until it’s fully absorbed. It can be extra helpful to apply the body butter right after a shower to really lock in the moisture. You can also apply it to your hands and feet before bed and wear cotton gloves and socks, you’ll feel so moisturized in the morning!

Because body butters are all butters and oils, they can be known to melt easily! So it’s important that they are stored in a cool dry place not directly in the sunlight. Luckily, if they do melt, all you have to do is place them in the fridge for a few hours and it will firm back up.

Disclaimers: As with any product, please read the ingredient list to check for allergy information. Products may come in contact with other common allergens. Use this product at your discretion. If any negative reaction occurs, please discontinue use and consult a physician. Gore-geous Skincare is not liable for any negative reactions to the product.