There’s something about hot climates that changes the way skin behaves. Step out into the dry heat of a desert afternoon or the thick humidity of a coastal summer, and you’ll instantly feel your skin react. It either gets parched and tight or a little too greasy for comfort. For people living in or visiting places like the UAE, where hot weather is practically year-round, knowing how to care for your skin becomes more than a luxury. It becomes essential. And one big question often comes up—should you use body oil or lotion?
They may seem like they do the same thing, but body oils and lotions actually work in very different ways. Understanding that difference can help you choose what’s best for your skin, especially when the sun is blazing and the air is dry.
The Basics: What Body Oils and Lotions Are Made Of
Let’s start with the foundation. Lotions are typically made of water and oil blended together. The water helps hydrate your skin, while the oil helps lock in that moisture. Because they contain water, lotions tend to feel lighter and absorb faster. That’s why people often reach for them when they want something that sinks in quickly and doesn’t leave too much of a residue.
Body oils, on the other hand, don’t contain water. They’re made of plant oils, essential oils, or other naturally rich oils that closely mimic the natural lipids found in your skin. This means they’re incredibly effective at sealing in moisture, even more so than lotion in many cases. Oils create a protective barrier on the skin that helps prevent moisture loss—something your skin desperately needs in a hot and dry environment.
>h2>Why Body Oils Are Better Suited for Dry, Hot Climates
In desert-like conditions, where the humidity is low and the air pulls moisture from anything it can, your skin loses hydration quickly. Lotions, because of their water content, may seem like the right choice. But that water evaporates fast in dry air. And when it does, it can sometimes leave your skin feeling drier than before.
Body oils work differently. Instead of trying to add water into the skin, they focus on locking in whatever moisture is already there. That’s why applying oil right after a shower works so well. When your skin is still damp, the oil traps that moisture and keeps your skin feeling soft for longer. In hot climates where your skin is under constant stress, this layer of protection goes a long way.
Not All Oils Are Greasy
A common worry about body oils is that they’re too heavy or greasy. But not all oils feel the same. Lighter oils like jojoba, grapeseed, almond, or sunflower absorb quickly without leaving a sticky or slick finish. These oils actually balance your skin’s natural oil production and can even help calm irritation or inflammation that often comes with sun exposure or heat.
There are also oils formulated with desert living in mind. These blends are made to be lightweight yet deeply nourishing, offering the perfect solution for dry skin in a hot climate. When chosen carefully, body oils can feel silky and comfortable on the skin without making you feel like you’ve stepped into a sauna.
Why Lotions Still Have a Place
Lotions aren’t the enemy here. In fact, they can be great for daily maintenance or for skin that’s already well-hydrated. If you’re in an air-conditioned space all day or you’re someone whose skin isn’t too dry, a good-quality lotion with natural ingredients can do the job well. It’s also easier to apply on the go since it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a shine.
But for people who feel like their skin drinks lotion and still feels dry minutes later, that’s often a sign that an oil-based product might be better. The skin’s barrier may be compromised, and oil is better at restoring that barrier than water-based lotions.
Timing Matters
When it comes to hot climates, the time of day you apply your body oil or lotion matters too. Oils work best when applied right after a bath or shower, while your skin is still damp. This helps seal in moisture and keeps your skin soft throughout the day.
Lotions can be used any time of day, especially if you just want a quick touch-up or something refreshing. Some people even combine both—using oil in the evening for deep hydration and lotion during the day for light moisture.
A Quick Look at Natural Body Oils That Work Well in Hot Weather
If you’re thinking of trying a body oil, here are a few natural options worth considering, especially if you’re in a region like the UAE:
ULBN’s Nourishing Body Oil with sweet almond and apricot oil helps restore softness without feeling heavy
Jojoba Oil is very close to the skin’s natural sebum and works well for both dry and oily skin types
Coconut Oil offers deep nourishment, although it can feel heavier for some
Rosehip Oil helps improve skin tone and texture over time
Grapeseed Oil is lightweight and a great choice for hot, humid days
Each of these oils brings something different to the table, but what they have in common is the ability to protect your skin in harsh weather while giving it a smooth, healthy glow. In the end, whether you choose body oil or lotion depends on your skin’s needs and how it reacts to the climate you’re in. For dry, sun-soaked environments like the UAE, body oils often come out on top. They offer deep hydration, help rebuild the skin’s natural barrier, and keep moisture locked in when the air around you is working hard to take it away.
It’s not about choosing one forever but about knowing when your skin needs a little extra care. And sometimes, the solution is as simple as swapping your usual lotion for a body oil that knows exactly how to handle the heat.