If you struggle with rough and scaly patches on your skin, you might need a lotion for dry skin. Those with this skin type need to be vigilant about keeping their skin moisturized, or else it might lead to cracking and more serious skin conditions like eczema. Applying lotion all over the body can seem troublesome for some, especially because of our humid weather. But like sunscreen, body lotions should be a staple in your skincare routine.
To help you combat dry skin, we’ve rounded up the best lotions for dry skin available in the market. We've also created a buying guide supplemented with helpful comments and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz. Read on to know more!
Quick List - Top Lotions for Dry Skin
Physiogel
Soothing Body Lotion for Easily Irritated Skin
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, dry skin develops when there's not enough moisture and oils within the skin's layers. There are a lot of causes of dry skin, ranging from the products we apply to the skin, skincare habits, underlying skin conditions, and even environmental factors.
To effectively address dry skin, it's important to look for ingredients that can restore moisture and oils to the skin.
Dry skin refers to your skin type based on your skin's behavior. Signs include flakiness, itchiness, and that general uncomfortable feeling. Dehydrated skin refers to the temporary state where your skin is losing more water than taking in. Signs include skin feeling tight or looking dull.
Moisturizers are a cornerstone of any skincare regimen. It is an important part of keeping our skin barrier healthy. Regardless of skin type, moisturizers are a must. Remember, the key lies in finding the right one for your skin.
Dry skin can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, especially when it comes to finding the right moisturizing lotion. For women aged 35-44 with dry skin in the Philippines, it's essential to select a lotion that effectively nourishes and hydrates their skin throughout the day.
When it comes to moisturizing dry skin, certain ingredients play a vital role. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina mentions that glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum are excellent ingredients to look for in a lotion.
Glycerin and hyaluronic acid keep the skin moisturized by attracting and retaining moisture, while petrolatum acts as a protective barrier to lock in hydration and prevent water loss, which helps to fight dryness.
In addition to the key ingredients mentioned, there are other beneficial ingredients to consider, such as ceramides, colloidal oats, and urea. Ceramides help repair the skin's barrier function, colloidal oats soothe and moisturize, and urea helps to exfoliate and hydrate. Look for lotions that incorporate these ingredients for added hydration and nourishment.
There are a multitude of different ingredients that can be incorporated into lotions. These can be classified into humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Some of the most common moisturizing ingredients that you probably didn't know functioned as such include acetamide MEA, butylene glycol, glycerin, propylene glycol, and sorbitol, to name a few.
Petrolatum is a great, not to mention cheap, ingredient. It is an ointment, which makes it heavier and oilier. Due to the hot and humid climate in the Philippines, petrolatum is better suited for nighttime use.
Many lotions claim to provide long-lasting moisturization, such as "moisturizes for 24 hours" or "12 hours." However, Dr. Katrina states that it’s important to note that these claims are not standardized. Individualized factors, such as skin type, the current state of the skin, and underlying skin conditions, can affect the longevity of moisturization.
Instead of relying solely on labels, focus on choosing a good moisturizer with ingredients tailored to your skin's needs. Additionally, proper application and usage contribute to the effectiveness of the lotion.
Remember to apply the lotion generously and regularly throughout the day to maintain optimal hydration.
For individuals with flaky, very dry, or sensitive skin, it can be challenging to find a lotion that doesn't cause irritation. The common culprits of irritation include alcohol which can further dry the skin, and fragrances and preservatives like parabens, which may lead to dryness and flakiness instead of providing moisture.
Additionally, actives like retinoids and salicylic acid, while they may be beneficial for other skin types, may dry and even damage dry skin.
However, we'd like to note that since you will be using the lotion every day, it is also best to find one that would appeal to your senses. There are lotions with no fragrance, while there could also be some with fresh, floral, or even fruity smells. At the end of the day, it all boils down to your preferences!
In truth, it's difficult to zero in on what particular ingredient should be avoided by people with sensitive skin, as this is a very individualized matter. However, over the years, the most common allergens in the majority of people have included but are not limited to exfoliating actives, fragrances, and alcohol.
A more accurate way of finding out is by patch-testing the actual product on a small hidden area of the skin and observing for a reaction over at least 48 hours.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Volume | Key Ingredients | Skin Friendliness | |||||
1 | CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | ![]() | Restores the Skin’s Protective Barrier and Delivers Long-Lasting Hydration | 19 oz | Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), Hyaluronic Acid | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Oil-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Non-Irritating | |
2 | Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion | ![]() | Enriched With Vitamins and Plant Oils to Moisturize and Protect Skin | 473 mL | Glycerin, Persea gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5) | Non-Comedogenic, Hypoallergenic, Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free | |
3 | Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion | ![]() | Great for Restoring Your Skin's pH Balance | 532 mL | Avena sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour | Fragrance-Free, Organic, Paraben-Free, Silicone-Free, Sulfate-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Non-Greasy, Hypoallergenic | |
4 | Physiogel Hypoallergenic Calming Relief A.I. Body Lotion | ![]() | Soothing Body Lotion for Easily Irritated Skin | 100 mL | Glycerin, Squalane, Ceramide | Preservative-Free, Fragrance-Free, Colorant-Free, Hypoallergenic | |
5 | Avene XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cream | ![]() | A Rich Cream to Soothe Extremely Dry Skin | 200 mL | Tocopherol, Glycerin, Arginine, Glycine, Oenothera biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil | Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free, Alcohol-Free, Non-Comedogenic | |
6 | Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion | ![]() | Formulated With Ceramides for 48-Hour Hydration | 500 mL | Glycerin, Urea, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Butter, Ceramide | Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free, Dye-Free | |
7 | Jergens Ultra Healing Fragrance Free Moisturizing Lotion | ![]() | Deeply Moisturizes 5 Layers of Skin for Up to 48 Hours | 500 mL | Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Tocopherol (Vitamin E) | Unscented, Dermatologist Tested | |
8 | Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Unscented Lotion | ![]() | A Hypoallergenic Lotion That Provides Lightweight but Potent Moisture | 600 mL | Glycerin | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Non-Greasy | |
9 | L'Occitane Ultra Rich Body Cream | ![]() | Say Goodbye to Dehydrated and Cracked Skin | 200 mL | Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Butter, Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Althaea officials Root Extract, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Prunus amygdalus dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Extract, Mel/Honey Extract | Vegan, Fair Trade-Certified | |
10 | NIVEA Intensive Moisture Body Milk | ![]() | Deeply Moisturizes for Soft and Smoother Skin | 400 mL | Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) | Dermatologically Tested, Paraben-Free |
Enriched with hyaluronic acid and glycerin, this non-comedogenic moisturizing cream targets dry skin woes and restores the skin's natural barrier without clogging pores. Another selling point of this product is its seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association, which affirms that it's gentle and non-irritating, even for those with skin allergies.
More than that, CeraVe's Moisturizing Cream provides 24-hour hydration—this is all thanks to its MVE technology, which continually releases moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin nourished all day. It's also oil-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic. Customers describe the consistency as smooth and creamy, saying it helps them with different skin concerns, too.
Volume | 19 oz |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), Hyaluronic Acid |
Skin Friendliness | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Oil-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Non-Irritating |
If you want a non-greasy and lightweight lotion that can be used for dry, sensitive skin and eczema, consider Cetaphil. This brand is recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians worldwide because their products are gentle enough for use at any age. This particular lotion is one of their bestsellers and is packed with many ingredients to provide hydration and protect against skin sensitivity signs.
It contains avocado and sunflower oils to moisturize your skin as well as protect it from bacteria and germs. It also has Vitamins E and B5, which are powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and slow skin aging. Several users love it because it is non-irritating, even for children and those with sensitive skin.
Volume | 473 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Persea gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5) |
Skin Friendliness | Non-Comedogenic, Hypoallergenic, Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free |
If you want a lotion that can moisturize and soften your dry skin, then this one from Aveeno is for you. It contains glycerin, which draws moisture into the skin and helps restore pH balance. It has also been clinically proven to provide hydration for a full 24 hours.
Another plus is that it uses colloidal oatmeal, an emollient that softens and soothes the skin with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Dermatologists also recommend it for its gentle and irritant-free formulation that can be used every day. And lastly, users like that it is moisturizing but not sticky or greasy on the skin.
Volume | 532 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Avena sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour |
Skin Friendliness | Fragrance-Free, Organic, Paraben-Free, Silicone-Free, Sulfate-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Non-Greasy, Hypoallergenic |
Treat your easily-irritated skin with a gentle and soothing body lotion, such as this one by Physiogel. Featuring a formulation that's hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and free from fragrances and colorants, you're sure to get a body lotion that's going to work gently on your skin.
This lotion has Physiogel's BioMimic Technology, which features fats that mimic those naturally found on the skin, helping repair and strengthen the skin's moisture barrier. Plus, it moisturizes and provides relief to itchiness, making it perfect for those with skin issues such as eczema.
Volume | 100 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Squalane, Ceramide |
Skin Friendliness | Preservative-Free, Fragrance-Free, Colorant-Free, Hypoallergenic |
This rich cream is ideal if you have extremely dry skin and conditions that are difficult to manage, such as atopic dermatitis. Thanks to its patented I-Modulia complex, it can relieve itching and irritation while bolstering your skin's protective barrier.
It delivers excellent hydration and nourishment through a combination of ceramides and omega-6 called Cer-Omega. It also contains glycerin, mineral oil, and primrose oil to add even more moisture. This product is powerful yet gentle enough, even for infants and kids. Users like this cream as well because it moisturizes even eczema-prone and problematic skin.
Volume | 200 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Tocopherol, Glycerin, Arginine, Glycine, Oenothera biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil |
Skin Friendliness | Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free, Alcohol-Free, Non-Comedogenic |
If you're after long-lasting hydration, this one from Eucerin certainly won't disappoint. It is formulated with Ceramide-3 to lock in moisture by strengthening the skin's moisture barrier. It also contains natural moisturizing factors to boost hydration and prevent dryness for up to 48 hours.
Moreover, users love how lightweight and fast-absorbing it is. Many of them say it's really comfortable to wear, especially in hot and humid weather. It's also free of irritants like fragrances and parabens, so it's suitable even for those with sensitive skin.
Volume | 500 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Urea, Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Butter, Ceramide |
Skin Friendliness | Fragrance-Free, Paraben-Free, Dye-Free |
Volume | 500 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C), Tocopherol (Vitamin E) |
Skin Friendliness | Unscented, Dermatologist Tested |
Vaseline’s lotion offers prescription-strength moisture, so you can bet it will nourish even your skin's stubborn problem areas. It contains micro-droplets of their famous Vaseline jelly, glycerin, and prolipids, ingredients ideal for sealing in moisture.
Despite its potent strength, it quickly absorbs into your skin without leaving a greasy feeling. It is also hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, so it is safe and gentle enough to use if you have sensitive skin. Reviews laud its ability to moisturize all skin types well, even those with eczema-prone skin.
Volume | 600 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycerin |
Skin Friendliness | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Non-Greasy |
This intensely hydrating body cream might be just what you need if you struggle with extremely dry and cracked skin. Enriched with 25% shea butter and apricot oil, it goes the extra mile even when applied to areas that are usually difficult to manage, like cracked elbows and heels.
Its moisturizing power is ramped up further with the addition of nourishing ingredients like linseed, marshmallow, almond, and honey. And while it's definitely oozing with decadence, it's surprisingly non-sticky, lightweight, and quick-absorbing. Users love how this cream has helped their bumpy and flaky skin recover and become soft and smooth.
Volume | 200 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Butter, Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Extract, Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Althaea officials Root Extract, Helianthus annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Prunus amygdalus dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Extract, Mel/Honey Extract |
Skin Friendliness | Vegan, Fair Trade-Certified |
Volume | 400 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E) |
Skin Friendliness | Dermatologically Tested, Paraben-Free |
The wait is over! Continue reading the section to know Dr. Katrina's answers to some of the internet's most asked questions.
Definitely, applying and reapplying lotion throughout the day can help relieve skin dryness.
#AskYourDerma tip: Spray the area with a water mist spray, then apply the moisturizer.
Moisturizer is best applied within 10 minutes after bathing while the skin is still damp to help seal in the moisture.
If you've got dry skin, don't despair! There are many products out there to help you deal with your skin type. Check out the links below for more products to give your skin the TLC it needs!
10 Best Moisturizing Soaps in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Face Moisturizers for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Serums for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Primers for Dry Skin in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Re-editor: Valerie Lagura
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: CeraVe|Moisturizing Cream
No. 2: Cetaphil|Moisturizing Lotion
No. 3: Aveeno|Daily Moisturizing Lotion
No. 4: Physiogel|Hypoallergenic Calming Relief A.I. Body Lotion
No. 5: Avene|XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cream
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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