9 Tested Body Lotions for Men, Because Skincare Isn't All About the Face (2025)

TL;DR

Bevel Body Lotion is our top pick for its lightweight yet long-lasting hydration. It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy feel and packs a powerful blend of shea butter, argan oil, and niacinamide to keep skin soft and smooth all day. Nivea Men Breathable Body Lotion is also high on our list, offering a fast-absorbing, nongreasy formula that keeps dry skin in check without feeling heavy. Plus, it's a great price too.

Our Top Picks

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, aloe, seaweed extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 8 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For the guys who like simplicity, Blu Atlas is up your alley. It’s a lightly fragranced, nongreasy lotion that hydrates well without feeling heavy on the skin. It absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft but not sticky, making it a good option for guys who want something that works without the extra fuss. It has a smooth texture that is great for daily use, whether you have naturally dry skin or need a little extra reinforcement in the hydration department after a shower.

The formula relies on shea butter for deep hydration, while aloe helps keep skin balanced and soothed. Seaweed extract is a nice addition—it’s packed with antioxidants that help fight environmental stressors (think pollution, prolonged sun exposure, and dry indoor air).

Saleam, tester (not pictured): "It’s lightweight and easy to forget you’re even wearing it. It absorbed fast and didn’t leave a film, which I appreciated on busy mornings."

Key Ingredients: Glycerin, vitamin E | Skin Type: All | Size: 13.5 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: No

If you loathe the feeling of lotion sitting on your skin, this one is made to disappear fast. Nivea’s breathable formula provides enough hydration to keep dryness in check but doesn’t leave a greasy film, making it ideal for guys who want to keep it light. It’s good for layering under clothes or applying post-workout—it won’t feel too heavy or suffocating on the skin.

Glycerin and vitamin E work in tandem to pull in moisture and protect the skin barrier. Nivea’s microgel technology helps it absorb quickly. The formula isn’t the richest, but if you require lightweight hydration that won’t leave behind residue, this one delivers.

Saleam, tester (not pictured): "This one soaked in right away—it felt like nothing was there, which is great when you just need quick hydration without fuss."

Key Ingredients: Avocado oil, coconut oil, shea butter | Skin Type: All | Size: 8.5 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When it comes to this body lotion, it’s all about the experience. If you already love Le Labo’s cult-favorite Santal 33—a mix of warm sandalwood, leather, and spice—the lotion is a more subtle way of wearing it. It delivers solid hydration, but let’s be real: you’re here for the scent. It lingers well and layers nicely with the matching fragrance, though the price is certainly high for a body lotion.

Avocado and coconut oils help keep skin soft, while shea butter provides lasting moisture. It’s not heavy-duty, so if your skin is extremely dry, you may need to double up with something richer. But this one is hard to beat if you’re in it for the scent and luxury.

Saleam, tester (not pictured): "I kept catching hints of the scent throughout the day. It’s warm and smooth, almost like I’d layered on a light cologne."

Key Ingredients: Geranium leaf extract, mandarin oil, bergamot oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 17 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Aesop's lotions are as much about the ritual as they are about skincare, and this one is no exception. It’s lightweight but rich enough to feel indulgent and absorbs well without a greasy finish. The scent—a mix of geranium, bergamot, and mandarin—smells fresh and herbal, making it a great option if you prefer lighter, citrusy fragrances. Pricey, yes, but a definite step up from basic drugstore options.

Geranium leaf extract has natural antibacterial properties. Mandarin and bergamot oils brighten and refresh the skin. The formula also includes shea butter for hydration and aloe for soothing action. This is one of those treat-yourself products, but if you like high-end skincare, it’s a solid addition.

Saleam, tester (not pictured): "This one felt like a little indulgence. The scent was fresh and herbal, and I liked how it lingered without being overpowering."

Key Ingredients: Vitamin B5, fatty acids | Skin Type: All | Size: 8.5 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The scent alone makes this body lotion worth considering. It’s warm and spiced without being overpowering—a twist on the classic Dark Rum fragrance. The formula is lightweight, absorbing fast, and won’t leave behind a sticky residue. If your skin isn’t overly dry, it’s suitable for everyday use, but if you require intense moisture, you might want to layer with something thicker.

Vitamin B5 keeps skin soft and smooth, while fatty acids strengthen the skin’s barrier. The formula is well-balanced, but the main attraction is the scent. If you like creamy, boozy fragrances, this one is a winner.

Saleam, tester (not pictured): "The warm, spiced scent gave this one a nice kick. It wasn’t too strong, but it made my routine feel more thoughtful."

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, argan oil, niacinamide | Skin Type: All | Size: 16 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: No

Some body lotions hydrate but feel too greasy, while others absorb fast but leave skin dry again a few hours later. Bevel strikes the right balance. It’s smooth, lightweight, and absorbs quickly while packing enough moisture to keep skin soft all day. It’s the kind of lotion you apply and go. The 16-ounce bottle lasts throughout the year, making this a good deal (especially for the price).

Shea butter and argan oil provide hydration, while niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps even skin tone and strengthen the barrier. If your skin is dry and rough, this lotion does more than moisturize—it improves texture over time.

Saleam, tester (not shown): "This one felt easy—smooth, light, and dependable. I didn’t have to think about it much, which is sometimes exactly what you want."

Key Ingredients: Menthol, vitamin E, macadamia nut oil, glycerin | Skin Type: All | Size: 16 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This one is for guys who like their skincare with a sensorial kick. It’s a lightweight, fast-absorbing lotion that provides decent hydration without feeling heavy. The real standout is the cooling effect. After application, menthol adds a refreshing tingle, making it a great pick for warmer months and post-workout.

Vitamin E and macadamia nut oil keep skin soft, while glycerin helps lock in moisture. The menthol isn’t overpowering, but it might not be for you if you’re not into the cooling sensation. Otherwise, it’s a solid all-year pick.

Saleam, tester (not shown): "The cooling effect initially surprised me, but it grew on me. It felt great after the gym or on warmer days."

Key Ingredients: Hemp seed oil, shea butter, ginseng | Skin Type: All | Size: 17 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Hempseed oil is full of fatty acids that help skin stay hydrated and healthy, and that’s the main ingredient in this formula. It feels light, is nongreasy, and absorbs fast. This is the way to go if you need something simple and effective. The scent is sweeter, so if you prefer something fragrance-free, this might not be your first pick.

This lotion also includes shea butter for hydration and ginseng, which is known for its skin-soothing properties. It’s an excellent option for daily use, especially if you need something that won’t feel heavy or clog pores.

Saleam, tester (not shown): "This one was light and fresh, and my skin stayed soft throughout the day. The scent was sweet but didn’t hang around too long."

Key Ingredients: Aloe, chamomile, green tea | Skin Type: Sensitive | Size: 15 oz | SPF: None | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For guys with sensitive skin, this body lotion keeps it simple. There’s no fragrance, no unnecessary additives—just hydration that won’t irritate. The texture is light but effective, sinking in quickly without leaving a filmy layer behind. The formula isn’t the richest, but this one is a safe bet if most lotions leave you itchy or irritated.

Aloe and chamomile help calm the skin, while green tea provides antioxidants to defend against environmental stressors. If you’re searching for a no-nonsense moisturizer, this one checks all the right boxes.

Saleam, tester (not shown): "This lotion was straightforward—no strong scent, no heavy texture. It just soaked in quickly and did what it needed to do."

FAQ

• What’s the best way to apply body lotion for maximum hydration?

  For optimal hydration, apply lotion immediately after showering while the skin is still damp. "This helps lock in moisture more effectively," explains Dr. Greeney. Using gentle, upward strokes can improve absorption, especially on drier areas like the elbows and knees. Warming the lotion between your hands before applying can also aid penetration. "For extra hydration, consider layering techniques," says Dr. Greeney. "Start with a lightweight lotion followed by a thicker cream on particularly dry areas."
  

• How often should men apply body lotion, and does this change based on climate or lifestyle?

  "Generally, applying lotion once daily is sufficient for normal skin," says Jamie Otlik, a senior product development manager at Jack Black. "But twice-daily applications—morning and night—benefit dry skin." In colder or drier conditions, Otlik recommends reapplying throughout the day, especially to exposed areas like hands and arms. Men with active lifestyles or those who shower frequently should always reapply lotion post-shower to prevent dryness.

• Can body lotion help with common concerns like rough skin, dry patches, or body acne?

  Yes, body lotion can effectively address these concerns when formulated with the right ingredients. "Exfoliating agents like salicylic acid can help reduce rough skin and prevent clogged pores," says Dr. Greeney. Emollients like shea butter and ceramides soften dry patches, while humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin draw moisture into the skin to improve hydration. "For stubborn acne, however, you may need targeted treatments or a dermatologist’s guidance," Otlik advises.

• Are there any misconceptions about the need for body lotion?

  "Many assume body lotion is only for those with dry skin," says Otlik. "But all skin types need hydration to stay balanced." Some also believe body lotion leaves a greasy feel, but modern formulas are designed to absorb quickly without residue. "Body lotion isn’t about luxury," says Dr. Greeney. "It’s about keeping your skin healthy, smooth, and comfortable."