ONE thing I’m determined to do this year is moisturise my body.
I’ve long neglected the skin below my chin but a recent eczema flare up has convinced me to do better – so this week, I tried three body creams to find out which is best.
BUDGET
Garnier Body Repair Body Lotion Dry Skin, £6.99 for 400ml, superdrug.com
When “queen of skincare” Caroline Hirons speaks, the world listens, which is why this body lotion is often quickly out of stock – it is one she has recommended for years and her loyal followers snap it up on repeat.
Unfortunately, I find it slightly too heavy for everyday use all over my body. It’s worked wonders on my eczema-prone areas and would be great for dry, cracked heels too.
My skin felt moisturised for days after use, so if you’re someone who doesn’t want to apply every day, it could work as a weekly treatment.
SKIN DEEP
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SUN SAVERS
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MID-RANGE
CeraVe Moisturising Cream, £12 for 177ml, boots.com
I never thought a product for “dry to very dry skin” would be something I enjoyed using – I hate oily textures, and unctuous formulas that take forever to sink in, so usually side step in favour of lightweight products for oily skin, but this magically provides all the hydration without feeling greasy.
It massages in easily, and although there’s a slight residue left behind, it doesn’t feel tacky or rub off on to my clothes.
I love that the formula is fragrance-free, which is great news for anyone with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
It also comes in a larger tub, which is better value for money, but I prefer the tube packaging.
LUXURY
Ouai Body Crème Melrose Place, £32 for 212g, sephora.co.uk
Ouai is one of the most underrated brands out there – especially when it comes to their body care products.
Famous for being Kim Kardashian’s hairstylist, founder Jen Atkin has created a super-luxurious brand at an accessible price, and let me be the first to tell you that the texture and finish of this body lotion is remarkably similar to La Mer’s three-figure offering.
It’s thick and rich, but doesn’t feel oily and spreads easily over skin, leaving it hydrated all day and night until I shower again.
PICK OF THE WEEK
IF you’ve ever been curious about retinol, high-street hero skincare brand Inkey has launched a duo of serums; Inkey Starter Retinol Serum, £12, and Inkey Advanced Retinal Serum, £15, to make the process seamless.
Use the Starter a few times a week to build up your tolerance.
Once you’ve finished the tube, move on to the Advanced serum, – also ideal for those already on the bandwagon.
It has 0.2% encapsulated Retinaldehyde, proven to work 11x faster than standard retinol, as well as 2% Sirtalice™ to lift, tighten and smooth skin in as little as 30 minutes.