Even if you have a full body care routine, you may be missing a key product that makes all the difference for soft, hydrated skin: body oil. With nourishing formulas and moisturizing ingredients, body oils do wonders to rid of—and prevent—dry skin.
That being said, if you’re not used to applying body oil, you may be nervous you’ll become a slippery mess. Don’t worry. With the right products and techniques, you can be a body oil pro. Ahead, we’re breaking down how to apply body oil in your routine, when to use body oil, and more for the most touchably soft skin ever.
The Benefits of Using Body Oil
So what does body oil do, you ask? Let’s break it down.
Adds an extra layer of nourishment
Body oil contains moisturizing ingredients, which nourish dry skin and prevent transepidermal water loss. In other words? Using body oil doesn’t just help skin feel softer and more moisturized, it also works to prevent dryness.
Helps skin look firmer
Many body oils have added body care benefits. For instance, Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil visibly firms skin with our proprietary Guaraná Caffeine+ Complex™, as well as sustainably sourced micro algae extract, which helps to noticeably depuff. Along with the rest of our Brazilian Bum Bum collection, it’s scented with our iconic Cheirosa 62™ fragrance.
Shop Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil, $52
Gives a luminous glow
Body oils usually leave a dewy, natural-looking glow. Take our Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil, which keeps skin glowing and nourished without that greasy feeling (all thanks to Brazilian olive oil).
If you want to pump up the glow, go for Glowmotions Glow Oil, which comes in two gorgeous finishes—Copacabana Bronza and Rio Sunset.
Shop Glowmotions Glow Oil, $36
Minimizes the appearance of imperfections
Depending on the formula, a body oil can help target certain skin concerns. For example, if you’re looking for the best body oil for dry skin, try Beija Flor™ Elasti-Body Oil. It helps boost elasticity and improve resilience so skin appears smoother and more supple.
Meanwhile, Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil promotes circulation and depuffing, especially if you use our lymphatic drainage technique (more on that in a minute).
The Best Way to Apply Body Oil
Now that you’ve got the benefits down, how do you use body oil? Find out our recommendations below.
Prep your skin
Body oil can be applied during morning or nighttime routines. Really, the best time is when you’ve just gotten out of the shower or bath. This way, the oil can lock in hydration. You can also apply before you’ve put on your favorite body cream for added moisturizing power.
Perfect your technique
We recommend giving your skin a little extra love when it comes to body oil—those few minutes of self-care will pay off! When applying Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil, massage into skin using circular motions to promote circulation and de-puffing. Or, go the extra mile with a self lymphatic drainage massage.
Starting at your belly button, press firmly and sweep fingers upwards and outwards towards your rib cage. Complete this movement for three to five minutes. Starting at your belly button again, press firmly and sweep fingers downwards and outwards towards your bikini line.
Apply at the right time
Still unsure when to apply body oil? The best time is just after bathing. When skin is warm and slightly damp, it makes it easier to absorb and seal in all the hydration from the shower.
Our Glowmotions Glow Oil, on the other hand, can be applied anytime you want a sheen throughout the day.
Use the right amount
We always recommend starting with one pump, then adding more if you like. Otherwise, you could end up using too much, especially if you’re applying alongside your favorite body cream.
5 Ways to Use Body Oil
1. Lock in hydration after showering
A body oil helps seal in all the nourishing benefits from your favorite body wash and then some. Bonus: Delícia Drench™ Shower Oil, featuring bacuri butter and a Brazilian Oil Blend, gives skin added nourishment before you get into the rest of your body care routine.
2. After body cream
For even more skin nourishment, apply body cream before using body oil. Allow the body cream to absorb for a few minutes, then massage in your body oil for even more self care.
3. Mixed in with body cream
Want all the combined benefits of body oil and body cream, but short on time? Use this hack: Mix two to three drops of body oil into your body cream for a super-luxe skin treat. Bye, dryness!
4. For massages
At the end of a long day, a massage can feel like heaven—and the right body oil will make a huge difference. Oil helps your hands glide over skin, while replenishing and rehydrating. Bonus: When you use Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil, your skin won’t feel greasy––just soft and silky.
For your cuticles
Here’s another hack: Use body oil on your cuticles! Just warm a drop or two in your fingers, then massage into your cuticles. Even better, add a little bit to Brazilian Touch™ Hand Cream for a deeply moisturizing hand treatment.
Can You Use Body Oil On Your Face?
As you’ve learned here, there are many answers to the question “what is body oil used for?” However, most body oils should not be used on the face. The same rule applies to all beauty products: You shouldn't apply somewhere it’s not intended for use. The skin on your face and body are actually quite different in their composition and have varying needs.
That being said, our Glowmotions Glow Oil is made for both body and face, so go for it!
