If you’re a skin care lover, it’s easy to get distracted by the amount of body care products that exist on the market, and even easier to get overwhelmed trying to do research on them and choose the best one for you. Having the perfect body care routine can help you keep your skin (beyond just the skin on your face) happy and healthy to keep you glowy and moisturized all year long, which is no small job. Self-care has become a necessity for many people — especially students — and body care can play a major part in that. If you, too, are lost on which body care products are worth your coin, look no further. Dozens of Her Campus writers and editors put hundreds of products to the test for this year’s College Beauty Awards to find the best body care products on the market. They’re sure to take care of you from head to toe.
From hydrating body balms to exfoliating body brushes, check out the products we love and need to fit into our daily body care routine. Plus, hear from some of our testers about why they got the Her Campus seal of approval.
OUI the People All in All Melting Body Balm ($75)
This plant-based retinol balm moisturizes without feeling greasy or heavy on the skin. “I loved this body balm! It had an amazing essential oil-type smell and did a great job at moisturizing my skin every time after I applied it,” Hailey says.
Dove Invigorating Aloe & Eucalyptus Body Wash ($7)
You might be overwhelmed with the amount of body washes you stumble upon in the aisles at Target or Ulta Beauty, but don’t worry, Dove has you covered. This body wash leaves the skin soft as silk. “I got out of the shower feeling extra clean. I think this product is definitely worth the price, especially for students,” Mya says.
Olay Age Defying & Hydrating Niacinamide Body Lotion ($10)
Olay’s body lotion hydrates the skin, leaving it smooth. Plus, it has a long-lasting scent that lingers throughout the day. “It felt so nice on the skin and the smell was long-lasting,” Kayleigh says. “It feels very smooth and rejuvenating, and it smells like floral and strawberries.”
WooWoo Bright & Buff Natural Body Scrub ($12)
Calling all body scrub enthusiasts! This scrub uses aloe vera and bamboo extract to enrich the skin with antioxidants while smoothing it. Camille says, “This scrub really surprised me! It wasn’t abrasive and made my skin feel really soft after showering.”
Good Time Moisturising Shave Bar ($14)
This shave bar boasts glycerin and shea butter to hydrate and moisturize your skin while you shave. All you have to do is wet the bar, lather it in your hands, massage it in, shave, and rinse. And the magnolia, musk, and bergamot scents don’t hurt, either. “I love that it’s eco-friendly, I love the packaging, and I love the smell. I especially loved the results I got,” Gracen says.
BELOVED by Love Beauty And Planet Mango & Lime Hand Lotion ($5)
To all the purse girlies out there, you’re going to want to add this product to your bag. “This lotion’s packaging is convenient and easy to carry,” Kayleigh says. “The scent is fresh and fruity. The product’s consistency is thick and is very moisturizing.”
Bath & Body Works Aroma Breathe Deep Eucalyptus Lavender Moisturizing Body Lotion ($17)
Bath & Body Works never disappoints. The brand came in clutch once again with its Aromatherapy line, and this eucalyptus and lavender lotion will have you feeling relaxed and calm. “It smelled so heavenly and made my skin feel soft. I would definitely purchase this if you like feeling relaxed before bedtime,” Camille says.
Saje Natural Wellness Extra Strength Warming Balm ($40)
“This product went BEYOND my expectations. I started using it for muscle soreness, and it works amazing,” says Mya. The Extra Strength Warming Balm is great for those who experience tightness or soreness on the body. By applying a tiny amount, the chili pepper extract in the balm claims to relieve pain for multiple hours. With scents of spicy herbs and a hint of earthy and sweet, you’re sure to find relief.
Jergens Natural Glow Melanin Glow Illuminating Moisturizer ($9)
Glitter gals, this one’s for you. Everyone loves a little highlight — just enough to catch the sun during the day or brighten up a night out on the town. But it’s tough finding a product geared towards every skin tone. That’s where Jergens comes in. “The gold in the product really helped give my skin a shimmer that still seemed natural. Very few bronzing products cater to dark-skinned people, so overall, the product is very appreciated,” Monyka says.
DIBS Beauty (Every)Body Brush ($28)
“I loved the shape and the thickness of this brush. I dipped it very lightly into my bronzer and it created a beautiful contour,” Sabrina says. This vegan and cruelty-free brush is designed to cover every nook and cranny of your body with product. According to Sabrina, “It blends so easily and is also really soft. I love it and will recommend it to everyone!”