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How do I Choose the Best Rich Body Cream?

Amy Hunter
Amy Hunter

The best rich body cream will be different for different people. Someone with very dry skin will want something different from a person with sensitive skin, or someone who has skin damage from years of sun exposure. In addition, different people will have different ideas of what makes a good or bad body cream. Some will want body cream that is easily absorbed, while others do not mind a slightly greasy feeling as long as the moisture is long lasting.

The fist step in finding the best rich body cream is to determine the most important benefit desired. While there are many multipurpose creams available, one specifically made for your particular problem will be best. Taking a few minutes to narrow down your wish list will make shopping much easier.

Aloe vera gel is commonly used as a moisturizing ingredient in body creams.
Aloe vera gel is commonly used as a moisturizing ingredient in body creams.

Some body creams offer deep moisturizing. They often contain ingredients such as cocoa butter. A rich body cream designed for intensive moisturizing is an excellent choice for people with very dry skin. These body creams are often slower to soak in than other creams, and may be better for nighttime use.

Some people may want a rich body cream with anti-aging ingredients such as retinol or alpha-hydroxy acids. These make excellent moisturizing creams, and the anti-aging claims are generally legitimate. They work by increasing the speed that the skin exfoliates, revealing younger looking skin. Be aware that body creams with anti-aging ingredients may be too harsh for people with sensitive skin.

People with eczema may use body cream to soften the skin.
People with eczema may use body cream to soften the skin.

People with itchy skin may want to look for a rich body cream that contains soothing ingredients such as oatmeal or aloe vera. These ingredients soothe as well as provide moisture for the skin. Sometimes itching is the result of a skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema, so if a specialized body cream does not offer relief, a trip to the dermatologist may be in order.

Body creams should be selected based on a person's skin type.
Body creams should be selected based on a person's skin type.

Sometimes, there is no specific reason you are looking for a rich body cream. They feel luxurious, and can be a refreshing way to end the day. For people looking for a little pampering that have no real skin concerns, choosing a body cream is fun. Choose one with an aroma that ignites your senses. Feel different creams, choose one that is the perfect consistency, not so thick that it leaves a residue, and not so thin that it absorbs instantly.

Cocoa butter is often an ingredient in moisturizing body creams.
Cocoa butter is often an ingredient in moisturizing body creams.

When you begin using a new body cream, take some time to observe your skin. Even the healthiest skin can develop an irritation or allergic reaction to certain ingredients. If you notice itching or redness on the skin after trying any new skin product, discontinue its use. Take note of the ingredients, and try to narrow down what caused the reaction so that you will know what to avoid next time. Try a rich body cream on a small area of skin, before applying it to your whole body, just to be sure.

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    • Aloe vera gel is commonly used as a moisturizing ingredient in body creams.
      By: cedrov
      Aloe vera gel is commonly used as a moisturizing ingredient in body creams.
    • People with eczema may use body cream to soften the skin.
      By: quayside
      People with eczema may use body cream to soften the skin.
    • Body creams should be selected based on a person's skin type.
      By: Africa Studio
      Body creams should be selected based on a person's skin type.
    • Cocoa butter is often an ingredient in moisturizing body creams.
      By: svl861
      Cocoa butter is often an ingredient in moisturizing body creams.