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10 Best Water Based Body Lotion 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Face Body Moisturizer, Normal to Dry Skin, 8 Fl Oz

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,196
Skin Type
Ingredients
Absorption Rate

Most important from
132179 reviews

Skin Type
The texture is smooth and non-greasy, making it suitable for sensitive skin, even for children.
Ingredients
An excellent, cost-effective alternative to more expensive moisturizers, delivering exceptional results without added fragrances or colors.
Absorption Rate
Quick absorption without leaving heavy residue, ideal for both face and body use.
Hydration Level
Noticeable improvement in skin hydration and reduction of redness and dryness within just a few uses.

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a versatile option for those with normal to dry skin types. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid is a significant strength, as it helps the skin retain moisture effectively, which is particularly beneficial for dry skin. Additionally, the patented MVE Delivery Technology ensures long-lasting hydration throughout the day, making it a reliable choice for all-day moisture.

The cream is also gentle on the skin, as it is free from fragrance and oil, and is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), and non-irritating, which makes it suitable even for sensitive skin types. However, the lack of fragrance might be a drawback for those who prefer a scented product. The cream's water-based formula allows for quick absorption, which means it won't leave a greasy residue, a feature often appreciated in body lotions.

In terms of packaging, the 8-ounce size is convenient for both home use and travel, although it may be a bit bulky for those looking for a more compact option. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a solid choice for individuals seeking a hydrating, non-irritating body lotion that caters specifically to normal to dry skin types.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,196
Skin Type
Ingredients
Absorption Rate

Most important from
132179 reviews

Skin Type
The texture is smooth and non-greasy, making it suitable for sensitive skin, even for children.
Ingredients
An excellent, cost-effective alternative to more expensive moisturizers, delivering exceptional results without added fragrances or colors.
Absorption Rate
Quick absorption without leaving heavy residue, ideal for both face and body use.
Hydration Level
Noticeable improvement in skin hydration and reduction of redness and dryness within just a few uses.
#2

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Skin, Body Lotion & Face Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides, Daily Moisturizer, Fragrance Free, Oil-Free, 19 Ounce

Rating
9.8
Skin Type
Ingredients
Absorption Rate

Most important from
125921 reviews

Skin Type
Perfect for sensitive, dry skin, this lotion hydrates without feeling heavy or irritating.
Ingredients
The addition of hyaluronic acid and ceramides makes a noticeable difference, keeping skin moisturized all day long.
Absorption Rate
Absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth without any greasy residue.
Hydration Level
Perfect for sensitive, dry skin, this lotion hydrates without feeling heavy or irritating.
Fragrance
Fragrance-free and oil-free, ideal for anyone sensitive to scents.
Packaging
A fantastic value with a 19-ounce size that lasts a long time even with daily use.

The CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a versatile water-based body lotion suitable for anyone with dry skin. Its formulation includes hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides, which are excellent for retaining moisture and restoring the skin's natural barrier. This makes it particularly beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin. The lotion absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and hydrated without any greasy residue, which is a significant plus for daily use.

Another strong point is its fragrance-free and oil-free nature, making it ideal for allergy-prone individuals or those who prefer unscented products. The National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance also underscores its suitability for sensitive skin types. However, users looking for a lotion with a pleasant scent might be disappointed as this product is entirely fragrance-free. Additionally, although it's marketed as non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), those with extremely oily skin might still find it less effective.

The packaging is practical with a sizable 19-ounce bottle, ensuring long-term use, but it may not be the most travel-friendly due to its larger size. Developed with dermatologists, this lotion is designed to cater to a range of skin types, but its primary strength remains in providing long-lasting hydration for dry and sensitive skin.

Rating
9.8
Skin Type
Ingredients
Absorption Rate

Most important from
125921 reviews

Skin Type
Perfect for sensitive, dry skin, this lotion hydrates without feeling heavy or irritating.
Ingredients
The addition of hyaluronic acid and ceramides makes a noticeable difference, keeping skin moisturized all day long.
Absorption Rate
Absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth without any greasy residue.
Hydration Level
Perfect for sensitive, dry skin, this lotion hydrates without feeling heavy or irritating.
Fragrance
Fragrance-free and oil-free, ideal for anyone sensitive to scents.
Packaging
A fantastic value with a 19-ounce size that lasts a long time even with daily use.
#3

Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer, Hydrating Moisturizing Lotion for All Skin Types, Suitable for Sensitive Skin, NEW 20 oz, Fragrance Free, Hypoallergenic, Non-Comedogenic

Rating
9.5
Skin Type
Absorption Rate
Hydration Level

Most important from
12334 reviews

Skin Type
The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula makes it versatile for sensitive or reactive skin.
Absorption Rate
Absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue, ideal for all skin types.
Hydration Level
Keeps skin hydrated all day with a gentle, effective formula that is non-greasy.
Fragrance
The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula makes it versatile for sensitive or reactive skin.
Packaging
The 20 oz bottle is perfect for daily use, and it's incredibly hydrating while being gentle.

The Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer is a versatile option suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its standout feature is its lightweight, non-greasy formula, which allows for quick absorption, making it convenient for daily use on the entire body. One of its significant strengths is that it addresses five signs of skin sensitivity: dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and a weakened skin barrier, which is beneficial for those with sensitive or problematic skin.

Additionally, being hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic ensures it doesn't clog pores or cause allergic reactions, which is excellent for sensitive skin users. The fragrance-free formulation is another plus for those who prefer or need a product without added scents due to allergies or personal preference. However, the lack of fragrance might be a drawback for individuals who enjoy a scented lotion as part of their skincare routine.

The product comes in a generous 20 oz size, making it a cost-effective choice for those needing a long-lasting lotion. The packaging is practical with dimensions that make it easy to store and handle. This lotion is ideal for anyone looking for a reliable, gentle, and effective moisturizer, especially those with sensitive skin, but might not appeal to users who prefer scented skincare products.

Rating
9.5
Skin Type
Absorption Rate
Hydration Level

Most important from
12334 reviews

Skin Type
The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula makes it versatile for sensitive or reactive skin.
Absorption Rate
Absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue, ideal for all skin types.
Hydration Level
Keeps skin hydrated all day with a gentle, effective formula that is non-greasy.
Fragrance
The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula makes it versatile for sensitive or reactive skin.
Packaging
The 20 oz bottle is perfect for daily use, and it's incredibly hydrating while being gentle.

Buying Guide for the Best Water Based Body Lotion

Choosing the right water-based body lotion can make a significant difference in your skin's health and appearance. Water-based lotions are generally lighter and more easily absorbed by the skin, making them ideal for daily use. When selecting a body lotion, it's important to consider your skin type, any specific skin concerns you have, and the ingredients in the product. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Skin TypeUnderstanding your skin type is crucial when choosing a body lotion. Skin types generally fall into categories such as dry, oily, combination, and sensitive. Water-based lotions are typically suitable for oily and combination skin because they are lightweight and non-greasy. If you have dry skin, you might need a water-based lotion with added moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. For sensitive skin, look for lotions that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to avoid irritation.
IngredientsThe ingredients in a body lotion determine its effectiveness and suitability for your skin. Key ingredients to look for in water-based lotions include humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture. Emollients like shea butter and oils can provide additional hydration and smoothness. Avoid lotions with alcohol, parabens, and artificial fragrances if you have sensitive skin. Reading the ingredient list can help you avoid potential allergens and choose a product that will benefit your skin.
Absorption RateThe absorption rate of a lotion refers to how quickly it is absorbed by the skin. Water-based lotions are generally fast-absorbing, making them ideal for use during the day when you don't want to wait for the lotion to dry. If you prefer a lotion that absorbs quickly, look for products labeled as 'fast-absorbing' or 'quick-dry.' For nighttime use, you might prefer a lotion with a slower absorption rate that provides prolonged hydration.
Hydration LevelThe hydration level of a lotion indicates how well it can keep your skin moisturized. Water-based lotions are typically lighter and provide moderate hydration, which is suitable for normal to oily skin. If you have very dry skin, look for a water-based lotion with added hydrating ingredients like ceramides or urea. For those with normal skin, a standard water-based lotion should suffice. Assess your skin's hydration needs and choose a lotion that matches them.
FragranceFragrance in body lotions can enhance the sensory experience, but it can also cause irritation for sensitive skin. Water-based lotions come in both scented and unscented varieties. If you enjoy a pleasant scent, choose a lotion with natural fragrances like essential oils. However, if you have sensitive skin or prefer a neutral option, opt for a fragrance-free lotion. Always test a small amount on your skin to ensure you don't have an adverse reaction to the fragrance.
PackagingThe packaging of a body lotion can affect its ease of use and shelf life. Water-based lotions are often available in bottles with pumps, tubes, or jars. Pump bottles are convenient and hygienic, as they minimize exposure to air and contaminants. Tubes are portable and easy to use on the go. Jars may require you to dip your fingers in, which can introduce bacteria, so always use clean hands or a spatula. Choose packaging that fits your lifestyle and ensures the product remains effective.

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