Body oils: the unexpected skincare upgrade you need now

Let’s be honest: we dedicate serious time and money to our faces. But what about the rest of our bodies? Increasingly, experts and Vogue editors agree that neglecting body care is a major oversight—especially as GLP-1 medications shift skin elasticity for many. The solution, it turns out, is surprisingly simple: a high-quality body oil.

The shift in body care priorities

Karina Freedman, master esthetician and founder of KarinaNYC, put it bluntly: “Why body care is still treated like an afterthought in the U.S. is something I’ll never understand.” She’s not alone in this sentiment; a growing number of dermatologists are emphasizing the importance of replenishing the skin with essential lipids and antioxidants, a task perfectly suited to a well-formulated body oil. The rise in awareness surrounding GLP-1 medications and their impact on skin firmness has only amplified this need. It's no longer about vanity; it's about maintaining skin health.

Beyond silky skin: the science of firming

While the promise of silky, dewy skin is enticing, the real question is: do these oils actually firm? According to Divya Shokeen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, the answer lies partly in the application technique. “This isn’t mystical,” she explains. “It’s simply using mechanical pressure to temporarily boost local circulation, which is part of why skin looks tighter right after application.” The upward, circular massage motion toward the heart is key to maximizing this effect. But it's more than just massage; the ingredients themselves play a crucial role.

Shannon Humphrey, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Vancouver, underscores the importance of hydration and barrier support. “If you want firmer-looking skin, I would invest in a body oil that provides excellent hydration and barrier support,” she advises. Well-hydrated skin naturally appears smoother, plumper, and healthier—a subtle but noticeable difference.

Vogue editors' picks: the best body oils for every need

The search for the perfect body oil led Vogue editors to a consensus. Here's a breakdown of the top contenders, backed by expert opinions:

• Best Overall: Costa Brazil Kaya Jungle Firming Body Oil ($98) - A unanimous favorite, boasting an earthy scent and a complex of Amazonian botanicals to improve firmness and texture.
• Best for Crepey Skin: Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil ($52) - Praised by estheticians and supermodels alike, this oil targets elasticity and barrier replenishment.
• Best Mousse-to-Oil: Maёlys Get-Taut Body Firming and Hydrating Mousse to Oil ($49) - A TikTok sensation that transforms from a mousse to a velvety oil, shown to tone saggy skin with consistent use.
• Best Dry Oil: Nécessaire The Body Oil ($52) - Featuring 2% capsaicin for a temporary tightening effect, this oil also supports the skin barrier.
• Best for Puffiness: Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil ($52) - Infused with Guaraná caffeine to visibly firm and de-puff the skin.

Beyond the hype: what to look for

Dr. Shokeen advocates for a short, functional ingredient list, focusing on active ingredients and barrier-supporting oils. She cautions against formulas where “the ‘firming’ ingredient is at position twelve…it’s there for the label, not the result.” Ultimately, the best body oil is one that prioritizes skin health and delivers noticeable results.

The evidence is mounting: investing in a quality body oil isn't a frivolous luxury; it's a vital step in a well-rounded skincare routine. And with experts and editors alike singing its praises, the time to upgrade your post-shower ritual is now.