With the winter in the Northeast even more brutal than last year, it is time to shift the spotlight away from facial to body oils. In a desperate attempt to keep my skin’s moisture levels balanced and to avoid dry and scaly patches, some fantastic body oil formulas have resurfaced from my stash of late. Fighting the effects of indoor heat and freezing outdoor temperatures are L’OCCITANE Aromachologie Relaxing Massage Oil, Shiffa Dubai Energising Body Oil, and Fresh Life Body Oil.
L’OCCITANE added the Relaxing Massage Oil to their Aromachologie line last year and because nobody does lavender better, its soothing aroma is spot on. The rich Sweet Almond Oil base is infused with Orange, Bergamot and Mandarin Oils that add uplifting citrus notes. Authentic and unique, this sensory experience evokes the bouquet of Provencal Lavender and the comforting scent of Earl Grey. The pump dispenser makes this oil a practical addition to your shower or night table. A light layer before bed is the stuff that dreams are made of. The Almond Supple Skin Oil or Shea Butter Fabulous Oil are fantastic as well.
Shiffa Dubai Energising Body Oil is liquid gold in a bottle. This multi purpose formula is a luxurious blend of warm, spicy, and exhilarating notes. The core blend of Jojoba and Sweet Almond Oil is enriched with Lemon and Lime to increase blood flow, Grapefruit and Fennel to purify, Ginger and Black Pepper to relieve muscle pain, and Meadowfoam Seed to tone and firm. Take deep breaths to clear your head while this rich blend eases your fatigued muscles. Silky and lightweight, the rejuvenating Shiffa oil stimulates both mind and body.
Part fragrance, part treatment, the Fresh Life Body Oil is a decadent ancillary to one of my favorite scents. The crisp notes of grapefruit, cucumber, moss, and cypress layer beautifully for a brisk yet warm sensual aura that wears for hours. Softening and moisturizing thanks to Sweet Almond, Jojoba, Apricot, and Sunflower oils, Fresh Life also features Passion Fruit Seed Oil that maintains the skin’s elasticity, soothing White Lily Flower Extract and rejuvenating Ginger Root. Combining lasting hydration and fragrance benefits, this versatile body oil makes a great addition to your morning or night time bathing routine.
While there isn’t a science to applying a body oil, the most beneficial way is to seal in the moisture after stepping out of the bath or shower. Massage the oil on damp skin and gently pat yourself dry for optimum hydration all day long. When taking a bath, add a tablespoon or so into running water or a few drops to some unscented body lotion (think Curel or Lubriderm) for an indulgent treat. If the neck of the bottle allows it, dip a q-tip and swipe it across your cuticles for a conditioning treatment. Remember that body oils are not exclusive to winter. When used lightly, they make a fantastic tan booster and add that healthy glow during the summer months.
- L’OCCITANE Aromachologie Relaxing Massage Body Oil $34 for 3.4 oz loccitane.com
- Shiffa Dubai Energising Body Oil $81 for 100ml shiffa.com
- Fresh Life Body Oil $48 for 3.3 oz sephora.com and nordstrom.com
