Choosing the best body butter cream can be difficult as there are many types of moisturizers to choose from. In addition, many of them contain certain ingredients that are designed to be used on particular skin types. Extremely dry skin needs a body butter with plenty of emollients and skin conditioners, while skin that is sensitive usually requires a body butter cream that is free of fragrance, artificial colors, and other irritants. Those with oily skin, eczema, psoriasis, or stretch marks will also need to choose a body butter that is suitable for their particular skin care needs.
All body butters are designed to hydrate dry, parched skin that is in need of extra moisture. Body butter creams are similar to lotions because they are used to moisturize the skin, but body butter is typically heavier and more moisturizing than regular lotion. It is common for those who normally use lotion to use a body butter in colder months, as the skin tends to be drier during this time. Nevertheless, body butter cream can be used all throughout the year.
Body butter cream is commonly used by those with extremely dry or dehydrated skin. Those who suffer from dry skin should look for a moisturizer that contains a considerable amount of emollients, such as essential oils, shea butter, cocoa butter, and coconut oil. Beeswax, Brazil nut oil, sunflower seed oil, jojoba oil, and aloe vera extract are also frequently used in skin creams and butters designed for intense hydration.
Oily skin also needs to be moisturized, as soaps and cleansers tend to dry the skin out. While many body butters are too heavy for those with oily or acne-prone skin, there are certain moisturizers that are suitable. Those with oily skin should avoid body butters that are rich in emollients and oils, as these can cause acne. Products that contain aloe vera gel instead of oils are ideal for oily skin, as aloe soothes dry skin without clogging the pores.
Sensitive skin can become irritated by fragrances and harsh substances that are in many commercial body butter creams. For this skin type, it is best to choose a product that is fragrance free and made with natural ingredients. It is also best to avoid ingredients such as silicon, petroleum, sodium lauryl sulfate, and parabens. In addition, those with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions should avoid body butter that contains artificial ingredients, colors, and fragrances.
Individuals who suffer from stretch marks often choose to use a body butter as a moisturizer. Ingredients such as vitamin E and cocoa butter are known to prevent stretch marks and improve the appearance of existing stretch marks. Collagen and elastin are also used in body butter creams made for those who have stretch marks or scars. Women who are pregnant often choose to use a body butter cream that contains these ingredients, but they can be used by anyone who is prone to scarring or developing stretch marks.