what does body oil help with

HOW TO MAKE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

This DIY whipped body butter is perfect for winter, especially if you have dry skin. Cold weather and hot showers can leave skin feeling dehydrated, so this nourishing body butter is a great solution.

Made with simple, natural ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil, this recipe is safe enough to eat, ensuring you know exactly what you’re putting on your skin. Essential oils can be added for fragrance and their beneficial properties.

The result is a light, fluffy body butter that feels like a cloud and provides deep hydration. Learn how to make this easy, homemade skincare treat!

WHAT IS BODY BUTTER?

If you’ve never tried body butter before, you’re in for a treat! It’s like butter for your skin—rich, moisturizing, and easy to make at home. By simply melting and whipping your favorite oils, you can create a luxurious body butter.

While coconut oil is a popular choice, it can sometimes feel greasy or melt at room temperature. For a better balance, try experimenting with different plant-based butters to create a nourishing, non-greasy moisturizer.

This homemade body butter not only feels smooth and nourishing on the skin, but it also smells amazing—especially if you add essential oils. It’s perfect for sensitive skin and makes a thoughtful, personalized gift!

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO MAKE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

INGREDIENTS FOR WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

  • 1/3 Cup Coconut Oil: Organic coconut oil is a skincare powerhouse! Its low molecular weight allows it to deeply penetrate the skin, delivering moisture and nourishment by binding to proteins in the skin.
  • 1/3 Cup Shea Butter: Shea butter is an incredibly effective emollient, making it perfect for hydrating and softening dry skin. Its rich, moisturizing properties are a key component in body butter recipes.
  • 1/3 Cup Cocoa Butter Wafers: Cocoa butter lends a creamy, thick texture to lotions and body butters, softening at body temperature for easy absorption. It also contains natural antioxidants like vitamin E, as well as other beneficial vitamins and minerals.
  • 1/3 Cup Jojoba Oil: A non-comedogenic carrier oil, jojoba oil is soothing and deeply moisturizing, making it ideal for calming irritated skin. If jojoba oil isn’t available, sweet almond oil is a great alternative due to its quick absorption and nourishing fatty acids and vitamins A and E.
  • 2 Teaspoons Arrowroot Powder: To reduce the oily feel of this rich moisturizer, arrowroot powder helps create a smoother, less greasy finish. If you don’t have arrowroot powder, cornstarch or tapioca starch can be used as substitutes.
  • Essential Oils (Optional): Add a few drops of essential oils for a natural fragrance and extra skin benefits. Essential oils are preferred over synthetic fragrances due to their plant-based origins and numerous healing properties.

WHY THESE INGREDIENTS

  • Coconut Oil – Provides deep moisture, promotes wound healing, and has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
  • Jojoba Oil – Moisturizes, supports wound healing, reduces inflammation, and offers anti-aging benefits.
  • Cocoa Butter – Forms a protective barrier to lock in moisture and protect the skin.
  • Shea Butter – Rich in antioxidants, it deeply hydrates and promotes skin healing.
  • Essential Oils – Add a pleasant scent and offer various beneficial properties depending on the oil used.

DIRECTIONS FOR MAKING YOUR WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

  • Begin by melting the coconut oil, cocoa butter, and shea butter together in a double boiler or a saucepan over low heat. If you don’t have a double boiler, a large glass measuring cup will work just fine.
  • Once the butters are melted, remove from heat and stir in the jojoba oil. If you’re using essential oils, add them now and mix well to evenly distribute the scent.
  • Pour the mixture into a medium-sized glass bowl and place it in the refrigerator to cool for about two hours. You can also chill the oils in the fridge to speed up the process.
  • When the mixture has fully solidified, remove it from the refrigerator and transfer it to a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer). Whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
  • Once whipped, add the arrowroot powder and whip again until the body butter reaches a smooth, airy consistency.
  • Finally, scoop the whipped body butter into containers and store in a cool, dry place.

TIPS FOR MAKING DIY BODY BUTTER

This whipped body butter makes a wonderful gift for friends and family, and you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger batches.

However, be cautious when using citrus essential oils, such as lemon or orange, as they can increase sun sensitivity. If you choose to include them, avoid sun exposure for a while after application, or opt to use the body butter at night for extra safety.

HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

Because the oils and butters in this body butter are natural and prone to melting in warm conditions, it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place. If the butter does melt, you can refrigerate it and re-whip it to restore its texture.

Stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dark environment, this body butter will last up to six months. For longer storage, you can add preservatives. Although I haven’t added preservatives to this recipe, Geogard ECT (also known as Preservative ECO or Plantaserv M) would be a good choice. Use between 0.6% and 1% of the mixture.

If you prefer natural preservatives, vitamin E oil or rosemary extract are great options. These help extend the shelf life without introducing harsh chemicals.

Another way to prolong freshness is by storing the body butter in smaller containers. This limits exposure to air and contaminants each time you open it, ensuring it stays fresh for longer.

Be sure to keep the body butter away from direct sunlight and high temperatures, as these can cause the natural ingredients to break down more quickly and spoil.

If you like experimenting with different scents or textures, you can customize this recipe by adding essential oils or botanical extracts. Lavender, chamomile, or rosemary essential oils are popular for their soothing properties, while citrus oils like lemon or orange can provide a refreshing scent. Just remember, citrus oils can make skin sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to use them at night.

For added hydration and soothing benefits, consider mixing in a tablespoon of aloe vera gel, especially helpful for sun-exposed or irritated skin.

Lastly, if you prefer a firmer body butter, adjust the ratio of butters to oils. Increasing the amount of cocoa butter or shea butter will create a firmer consistency, while adding more liquid oils will make the body butter softer and easier to spread.

CONCLUSION

Whipped body butter is a luxurious and nourishing treat for your skin. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily create your own customized version at home. With the flexibility to choose your preferred ingredients and scents, you can tailor your body butter to your specific needs and preferences. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a homemade product that will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and beautifully hydrated.

LIST OF 15 BEST BODY LOTIONS  WITH SPF PROTECTED US FROM THE SUN

Sun protection is essential all year round, not just when you’re lounging at the beach. But who wants to deal with greasy sunscreen every single day? The good news is, you don’t have to! There are a bunch of fantastic body lotions on the market that combine daily hydration with SPF protection. This gives you smooth, nourished skin while shielding it from harmful UV rays. Here’s a list of 15 of the best body lotions with SPF to keep your skin healthy and protected.

OUR TOP PICKS

BASK SPF 30 LOTION

Bask SPF 30 Lotion is a great option for those who prioritize a pleasant sunscreen experience. This award-winning lotion boasts a lightweight, silky smooth texture that absorbs quickly and leaves a sheer finish, so no worrying about white cast or greasy residue. Allure magazine even called it “the first sunscreen we’ve ever been excited to reapply!” This water-based formula is gentle enough for everyday use and is packed with ingredients that are kind to your skin and the environment. It’s reef safe, vegan, cruelty-free, and free of common sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Plus, the delightful scent adds a touch of vacation vibes to your daily routine.

Size: 3.4 oz

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene

SOL DE JANEIRO RIO RADIANCE SPF 50 MINERAL BODY LOTION SUNSCREEN WITH NIACINAMIDE 6.7 OZ / 200 ML

Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Mineral Body Lotion Sunscreen with Niacinamide offers a luxurious way to protect your skin. This lightweight, 100% mineral sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 50. But it’s not just about sun defense. The lotion also delivers a dose of hydration with cupuaçu butter, leaving your skin feeling silky smooth and nourished. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is included to help brighten and even skin tone. And let’s not forget the signature Cheirosa 68 scent – a blend of solar tuberose and leite de coco that will transport you to a sunny Brazilian beach with every application.

Size: 6.7 fl oz

Key ingredients: Cupuaçu butter, niacinamide

EVERYDAY HUMANS SPF 50 BODY SUNSCREEN

Everyday Humans SPF 50 Body Sunscreen is a solid choice for those seeking a daily-use option with high sun protection. This lightweight, broad spectrum SPF 50 lotion absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. It’s also sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a good pick for active individuals. Unlike some sunscreens, this one won’t sting your eyes, which is a major plus. Everyday Humans prioritizes clean ingredients, so you’ll find this lotion free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, making it a good choice for those with ethical concerns.

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene 

Size: 3.4 oz

AVEENO PROTECT + HYDRATE MOISTURIZING BODY SUNSCREEN

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sunscreen Lotion is a dermatologist-recommended option that combines daily hydration with broad spectrum sun protection. This lightweight, oil-free lotion comes in SPF 30 and SPF 60 versions, so you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs. The formula is infused with prebiotic oat, which helps to soothe and nourish the skin while supporting its natural moisture barrier. This makes it a good option for those with sensitive skin. Plus, the lotion is paraben-free, oxybenzone-free, and dye-free, minimizing the risk of irritation. With its gentle formula and effective sun protection, Aveeno Protect + Hydrate is a great choice for everyday use.

Size: 12 fl oz

Key ingredient: Prebiotic oat complex

AESOP AVAIL SPF 50 BODY LOTION

Aesop Avail Body Lotion SPF 50 is a fantastic option for those who value both high sun protection and a luxurious feel. This lightweight lotion boasts a broad spectrum SPF 50, shielding your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Despite its protective power, the formula absorbs quickly and leaves a refreshing, non-greasy finish. Aesop incorporates Vitamin E to deliver a boost of hydration and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth. This fragrance-free lotion is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile choice. While it may be on the pricier side, Aesop Avail Body Lotion SPF 50 offers a luxurious way to protect your skin on a daily basis.

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene

Size: 5.1 oz 

FENTY BEAUTY HYDRA VIZOR BROAD SPECTRUM MINERAL SPF 15 SUNSCREEN HAND CREAM

Fenty Beauty Hydra Vizor Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 15 Sunscreen Hand Cream caters specifically to protecting and pampering your hands. This lightweight lotion packs a dual punch with SPF 15 mineral sunscreen that shields against UVA and UVB rays, while also delivering rich hydration. Murumuru and mango butters work together to deeply condition and soften dry, rough hands. The formula absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue behind, making it perfect for daily use throughout the day. This Fenty Skin product is another win for those seeking a multitasking hand cream that offers sun protection and intense moisture.

Size: 1.35 fl oz

Key ingredients: Murumuru and mango butters, moringa Oils

ATTITUDE SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 30 UNSCENTED

Attitude Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 Unscented is a perfect choice for those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies. This hypoallergenic lotion utilizes non-nano zinc oxide for broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without the risk of irritation. Unlike some mineral sunscreens, Attitude’s formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue. The unscented version is ideal for those who prefer a fragrance-free experience or who have sensitivities to perfumes. This EWG Verified and dermatologically tested lotion is vegan and reef-safe, making it a conscious choice for sun protection.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide

Size: 2.6 oz 

SHISEIDO ULTIMATE SUN PROTECTOR FACE AND BODY LOTION SPF 60+ SUNSCREEN

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Face and Body Lotion SPF 60+ Sunscreen offers broad spectrum sun protection with a high SPF rating, making it ideal for those who need serious sun defense. This invisible, lightweight lotion goes on clear and absorbs quickly without leaving a white cast or greasy residue. Shiseido’s innovative SynchroShield Technology boasts a “smart” formula that strengthens the protective veil upon contact with heat, water, and sweat, providing even more protection during outdoor activities. The lotion is also formulated with ingredients to help prevent dryness and keep skin hydrated. This fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested option is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile choice for daily sun protection.

Size: 5.07 fl oz

Key ingredients: Algae, licorice root

BEAUTY BY EARTH SUNSCREEN BODY LOTION SPF 25

Beauty by Earth Sunscreen Body Lotion SPF 25 is a great option for those who prioritize natural ingredients and reef-safe sun protection. This mineral-based formula utilizes non-nano zinc oxide to provide broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection, but skips ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate that can harm coral reefs. The lotion is packed with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and shea butter to keep your skin hydrated and nourished. Plus, Beauty by Earth boasts a clear, non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly and leaves no white cast. This fragrance-free lotion is suitable for everyday use and is gentle enough for sensitive skin. While the SPF 25 offers protection, it’s important to note that it’s on the lower end of the spectrum, so reapplication is more crucial, especially for extended sun exposure.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide 

Size: 4 oz |

LA ROCHE-POSAY MELT-IN SUNSCREEN MILK SPF 60

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 is a multi-award winning option for those seeking broad spectrum protection with a luxurious feel. This lightweight, oil-free lotion boasts a SPF 60 rating, shielding your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Despite its high sun protection, the formula absorbs quickly and leaves a velvety, non-greasy finish. La Roche-Posay prioritizes sensitive skin, so the fragrance-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including those prone to irritation. This dermatologist-backed sunscreen is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, making it a great choice for those with acne-prone skin. With its innovative formula, high sun protection, and focus on sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 is a top contender for daily use.

Size: 5 fl oz

Key ingredients: Antioxidants, thermal spring water

BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 30

Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a fantastic option specifically designed for melanin-rich skin. This lightweight, oil-free lotion offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 30, helping to shield skin from sun damage and hyperpigmentation. Unlike some sunscreens that leave a white cast on darker skin tones, Black Girl Sunscreen is formulated to be sheer and blend in seamlessly, avoiding an ashy appearance. The lotion is packed with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and vitamin E to keep skin hydrated and healthy. Free of common irritants and fragrances, Black Girl Sunscreen is a gentle yet effective choice for daily sun protection for people of color.

Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene 

Size: 3 oz 

SUPERGOOP!® PLAY EVERYDAY LOTION SPF 50 SUNSCREEN AT NORDSTROM

Supergoop!® Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen is available at Nordstrom and is a great option for those seeking a daily-use lotion with high sun protection. This lightweight, broad spectrum SPF 50 lotion absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue, making it comfortable for everyday wear. It’s also water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a good pick for those who sweat or spend time outdoors.

According to the product description on Nordstrom’s website, the formula is ultra-moisturizing and provides high-performance protection from UVA, UVB and IRA rays. It’s also free of ingredients that can harm coral reefs and is cruelty-free. Consumers love the way it feels on the skin and that it doesn’t leave a white cast.

Size: 5.5 fl oz

Key ingredients: Sunflower, rosemary and rice bran extract

UNSUN COSMETICS MINERAL SUNSCREEN LOTION SPF 30

Unsun Cosmetics Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is a great option for those who are looking for a mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen lotion. This unscented and untinted formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving a non-greasy finish. It offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 30 to shield your skin from sun damage.

Enriched with healing extracts of prickly pear cactus, bitter orange, and cucumber, this lotion keeps your skin hydrated while providing sun protection. It is also free of common irritants and fragrance, making it a gentle choice for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide 

Size: 3 oz

VACATION INSTANT VACATION BROWNING LOTION SPF 30 AT NORDSTROM

Vacation Instant Vacation Browning Lotion SPF 30 is available at Nordstrom and is a unique product that combines sun protection with a gradual tanning effect. This lightweight, lotion boasts a SPF 30 rating, shielding your skin from UVA and UVB rays while delivering a bronzed, sun-kissed look. The formula is infused with self-tanning technology that develops gradually over time, so you can achieve a natural-looking tan without the risks of sun exposure.

According to the product description on Nordstrom’s website, the lotion features a custom gourmand scent with notes of cocoa, hazelnut, and coffee, transporting you to paradise with every application. It is also packed with skin care ingredients to help moisturize and firm skin .

Size: 5 fl oz

Key ingredients: Shea, cocoa seed oils, self-tanning technology

COOLA CLASSIC BODY ORGANIC SUNSCREEN LOTION

Coola Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Lotion is a great option for those who are looking for an organic and reef-safe sunscreen lotion. This enhanced version of their award-winning classic is designed for long days in the sun but is light enough for everyday use. It features a plant-based oleo some technology that optimizes the performance of the formula, for fortified protection that’s unbelievably light, gentle, and sheer on skin. Available in SPF 50 and fragrance-free, it offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection to shield your skin from sun damage.

Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide 

Size: 5 oz 

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A BODY LOTION WITH SPF

STRENGTH OF SPF

If you’re planning to use an SPF body lotion as your sunscreen, it’s advisable, as per board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marie Hayag, MD, to opt for a product that offers a minimum of SPF 30 protection. Equally crucial is ensuring that the lotion you choose provides broad-spectrum coverage to safeguard your skin from harmful UVA rays.

TYPE OF SPF

Sunscreens come in two forms: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreens, which physically repel rays from the skin, contain titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to establish a physical barrier between the skin and UV rays. Chemical sunscreens, conversely, absorb UV rays using chemical filters like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. The choice depends on your preference, but mineral sunscreens are generally better for those with sensitive skin, though they can be thicker and may leave a white residue on deeper skin tones. Chemical sunscreens tend to be lighter, more transparent, and more pleasant to apply, but the key ingredients may irritate those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

SIZE

To fully benefit from this all-in-one product, you’ll need a substantial quantity to cover your entire body (approximately the amount in a shot glass). Therefore, we recommend a product that comes in a large container to ensure it lasts more than just a few uses.

CONCLUSION

So there you have it! These 15 body lotions with SPF offer a variety of options to suit your needs, whether you prioritize high sun protection, a luxurious feel, reef-safe ingredients, or a touch of self-tanning color. No matter your preference, daily sun protection is essential for healthy skin. With so many great choices available, you can find a body lotion with SPF that you’ll love to use every day. Remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating, to ensure optimal sun protection.