Summer always has the habit of creeping up on us. And if your legs and limbs are too in need of some hydration as we transition seasons, allow our edit of the best body oils to come to the rescue.
Don’t get us wrong, there’s a special place in our hearts for body lotions too, of course. But when it comes to post-winter skin rehab, a body oil can really work some luxurious magic.
Intense hydration aside, the right formula will rapidly absorb into your skin, which means less downtime before you can get dressed or jump into bed.
But, like all beauty products, not all body oils are built the same. While some will turn you into a shiny, glazed ham, others will leave you with a lightweight, antioxidant-rich, nourishment that works as the perfect alternative or partner to your regular moisturising routine.
Here are our seven fail-safe body oils for a guaranteed glow all year-round.
Clarins Anti-Eau Body Treatment Oil
We say: We know, $70?! But trust us, you get what you pay for. Bursting with powerful, natural ingredients, this formula helps to minimise puffiness and leaves skin dry to the touch and satin-soft. It contains vitamin A, E, geranium and hazelnut oil, and is one of the closest things to liquid gold.
You say: “The oil feels light and luxurious and smells beautiful with citrus tones (it is a French product after all). I believe this is more packed with skin-nourishing elements beyond average body oils.” – Herrikadrizzle
$73 at Myer
Read more Clarins Anti-Eau Body Treatment Oil reviews
Neutrogena Body Oil (Sesame Formula)
We say: A budget fave, Neutrogena’s lightweight body oil works like a dream. Use it to moisturise damp skin post-shower or try adding a few drops into your bath for some full body nourishment.
You say: “My skin has never felt softer, even on the days I don’t apply the product. My elbows are especially loving this product.” – Nove
$8.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Read more Neutrogena Body Oil (Sesame Formula) reviews
Garnier Body Ultimate Beauty Oil
We say: And the crown for ‘best-smelling body oil’ on the market goes to Garnier. With a formula combining argan, macadamia, almond, and rose oil, prepare for the most hydrated, healthy skin of your life.
You say: “The first time I used it I was in love with the smell. I can not describe how perfect it is – You have to try it for yourself! It soaks into your skin well and leaves you with a healthy skin glow. I like a spray bottle its easy and so far hasn’t leaked or made any mess.” – Lynne23
$6 at Chemist Warehouse
Read more Garnier Body Ultimate Beauty Oil reviews
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturising Body Oil
We say: Palmer’s is no stranger to blessing dry skin with a cocoa butter-rich hit of moisture. Watch as stubborn dry, scaly patches disappear and supple, glowing skin is left in its place.
You say: “I do a lot of swimming, being outdoors so my skin is often quite dry. I love love love the scent, the sweet cocoa smell is perfect. The oil easily absorbs into my skin, leaving it feeling super hydrated and soft.” – Peta908
$9.49 at Chemist Warehouse
Read more Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturising Body Oil reviews
Dermalume Rejuvenation Therapy Neck and Décolletage Firming Oil
We say: If you’re looking to do some rehab on your neck and décolletage specifically, this is the oil for the job. As a body area that’s often exposed (and let’s be honest, neglected) this antioxidant-rich blend is ready to get to work reviving and firming the skin. It contains frankincense oil, rice bran oil, sea-buckthorn oil, and 11 other active oils, and the brand is locally based in Melbourne.
$29 at dermalume.com.au
Read more about the Dermalume Rejuvenation Therapy Neck and Décolletage Firming Oil
Aveeno Daily Moisturising Oil Mist
We say: If you think you don’t have time for a body oil (we get it, they can be messy), allow this quick-dry mist to change your mind. Conveniently packaged for fast application and with a deeply hydrating formula that leaves the greasy after-feel at the door, it’s the lazy gal’s answer to body oil.
$17 at Woolworths
Read more about the Aveeno Daily Moisturising Oil Mist
Clémence Organics Ultimate Body Oil
We say: If you’re prone to sensitivity, this organic pick provides deep hydration without irritation. Camellia and jojoba oils take care of the moisturising task, while calendula soothes to ensure skin comfort. It contains no artificial fragrance but carries a subtle scent from the blend of chamomile and lavender essential oils.
$59.98 at clemenceorganics.com
Read more about the Clémence Organics Ultimate Body Oil
Reef Sunscreen Oil Spray SPF 50+
We say: Want the nourishing goodness of an oil but can’t stand the application process? Well, Reef have created a top-notch near-genius spray applicator for their summer-worthy oil. Why does this oil garner a spot in the summer-ready list? Because not only is it a hydrating (quick-drying) oil, but this spray even features a sun-safe element of 50+ protection. Yep, you’ll be able to apply (and reapply) this oil all day long. While of course wearing your hat and sunnies.
$19.99 at Priceline
Want to read more? Read Reef Sunscreen Oil Spray SPF 50+ reviews
*This article has been updated since its original publication.
Main image credit: @summerfridays
Do you use a body oil? If so, which is your favourite?
Love adding mica to body oil, for glowy shimmer summer look =D
Ohhhh I love a body oil especially in summer … Light weight…also good to wash skin in too. … Haven’t heard of some of these so need to look
I love the Palmer’s one.
Weleda make lovely body oils, some include Birch Cellulite Oil
Arnica Massage Oil
Lavender Relaxing Body Oil
Wild Rose Body Oil
Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil
Sea Buckthorn Body Oil
Can get them in kits and they make good pressies
I love them too!
Really great read
Love the neutropenia body oil. I have purchased a few times
Great to come across other body oils. Just purchased my 2nd bottle of Neutrogena body oil, been happy with this product.
Have tried a few of these products but like to keep an eye on others that I might like to try
I love the Palmer’s oil.
I’ve been using Bio Oil as I got it from here. It’s okay, I prefer a lotion though.
ooh so many good ones – but the dermalume one is standing out to me
I prefer body lotions, they just feel richer and more moisturising on my dry skin.