The 17 Best New Body-Care Products
By Sarah Madaus
It’s time we extend the same energy we have for our multistep face-care routines to how we care for our bodies. The best body-care products hydrate, smooth, soften, and soothe the skin we so often neglect. From brittle nails to dry, flaky knees and elbows, our bodies are likely all craving a little extra TLC.
The excellent body-care products below target all of your unique skin needs, from deeply nourishing body creams to soothing cuticle treatments. You’ll be filling up your cart before you know it with these 2021 Healthy Beauty Award winners.
What to Look for When Choosing Body-Care Products
For this year's Healthy Beauty Awards, we turned to our go-to dermatologists and 65 at-home testers who moisturized, polished, tanned, and waxed their way to finding the best of the best in body care.
Our dermatologists provided a number of guidelines about what to look for in the best body-care products. For chapped hands and rough feet, they advise looking for moisturizing shea butter and nourishing oils, like coconut or argan. For skin conditions like keratosis pilaris, derm-approved gentle exfoliants like lactic and glycolic acids are key. If you have sensitive skin, or skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, avoid products with added fragrances and dyes, as dermatologists say those can trigger flare-ups. Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera and colloidal oatmeal to soothe redness.
You can read more of our dermatologists' criteria here. Be sure to check out the rest of our 2021 Healthy Beauty Award winners right here.
Reviews have been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
- Gladskin / Lisa Moses1
Best Eczema Cream: Gladskin Eczema Cream
This steroid-free OTC eczema cream surprised reviewers with its serious effectiveness. Eczema starts with a bacterial imbalance, and Gladskin’s unique protein complex helps to balance the good and bad bacteria on the skin. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This product contains colloidal oatmeal, a soothing ingredient for dry, stressed-out skin. It also contains moisturizing glycerin and mineral oil.
One tester said: “This past year I've had the worst eczema flare-ups on my hands, probably from the extra stress and aggressive handwashing. This cream really helped to calm my skin and get it back to normal. The pump made application very easy; one pump was the perfect amount for both hands, and I didn't have to mess with flipping or unscrewing caps. The cream was potent enough to accelerate the healing process.”
- Flamingo / Lisa Moses2
Best Body Lotion for Dry Skin: Flamingo Deep Nourishing Cream
If the packaging of this dreamy cream alone doesn’t woo you, the long-lasting moisture will. Our reviewers loved its luxe softness and accessible price point. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This product contains dimethicone and squalane, which derms love for their hydrating and moisturizing properties. Plus, it’s sans sulfates and dyes, which are common irritants for folks with sensitive skin.
Just so you know: This cream contains fragrances, which our derms say may be irritating to some.
One tester said: “The scent of this cream is lovely and not too overpowering. The texture is very thick and rich, but it still absorbs quickly. It leaves my skin feeling very moisturized and it actually lasts beyond 24 hours! I have been using it for more than two weeks and have noticed a significant improvement in dryness on my arms and legs.”
- Nivea / Lisa Moses3
Best Body Lotion: Nivea Breathable Body Lotion
All hail this drugstore hero! Our testers loved how quickly this lotion absorbed—and the fact that it’s moisturizing without the sticky feeling many other body lotions leave behind. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This lotion contains shea butter, dimethicone, and glycerin, three dry-skin superheroes loved by derms for their moisturizing qualities. It also contains vitamins C and E, which are great brightening ingredients for combatting discoloration and scarring.
Just so you know: This product contains fragrances, which may be irritating for some with sensitive skin.
One tester said: “I absolutely love the way this feels on my skin. For someone who has dry skin and issues with long-lasting moisture, it works very well. It was moisturizing and left my skin feeling silky and smooth all day. Highly recommend.”
- Miss Spa / Lisa Moses4
Best Hand Treatment: Miss Spa Deep Therapy Hand Treatment
Next time your hands need a little extra TLC, slip on these hydrating serum-infused gloves. Our testers raved over how soft their hands felt post-treatment. An added plus: Wearing these will give you an excuse to stop doomscrolling on social media. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This product contains moisturizing glycerin and dimethicone, which derms say is great for dry skin.
One tester said: “Wearing these hand treatments after a really cold and dry winter was a really lovely treat. The leftover serum takes time to absorb, but once it does, my hands felt silky, moisturized and hydrated. There isn't a strong fragrance to this product either, which is nice.”
- Hempz / Lisa Moses5
Best Hand Cream: Hempz Original Hydrating Herbal Hand Crème
We love a good purse-size hand cream, but sometimes it just isn’t enough. Enter this lightweight cream infused with cannabis sativa oil that comes in a container large enough to last you a full calendar year. Our reviewers loved the long-lasting hydration it gave, and the bright, playful packaging. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This hand cream is packed with shea and cocoa butters, coconut oil, and aloe, which dermatologists laud for their humectant properties.
Just so you know: This product does contain dyes and fragrances, which our derms say can be irritating for some folks.
One tester said: “Finally a hand cream that stands out—literally! It comes in a large, highlighter-yellow tube, which is great because most hand creams are pretty small. It's moisturizing but not too heavy or greasy, and it has a nice flowery, watermelon scent. This hand cream does what it says it will, and I think all of our hands have been sanitized enough to need some extra hydration!”
- Asutra / Lisa Moses6
Best Foot Cream: Asutra Treat Your Feet Foot Cream
Our feet go through a lot, and truth be told, they deserve the same amount of care and attention we pay to the rest of our bodies. Our testers loved the dreamy peppermint scent and the luxurious, rich formula of this foot cream from Asutra. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This product contains shea butter, a dermatologist fave for moisturizing dry, rough skin. It also contains tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic to combat bacteria and fungus.
One tester said: “I often ignore my feet when it comes to exfoliating and moisturizing. But wow, this product made a world of difference. The cream smells super minty and fresh, and the texture is luxurious. I use it post-shower and follow-up with a pair of fuzzy socks, and despite all of the oils, this cream actually soaks in within a few minutes. After a few hours, my feet feel super moisturized, soft, and after repeated use, my heels have softened up considerably.”
- Chillhouse / Lisa Moses7
Best Press-On Nails: Chillhouse Chill Tips
The pandemic brought about a renaissance of press-on nails, and thank goodness, because what’s not to love? These tips from Chillhouse are convenient, accessibly priced, and extraordinarily fun. Each pack comes with 24 press-ons, a cuticle stick, a dual-sided nail file and buffer, and nail glue.
Just so you know: One reviewer noted that the Chill Tips are very long, but you can easily trim them with clippers if the length isn’t what you’re looking for.
One tester said: “I was shocked with how sturdy and professional these tips felt on my nails—and how easy they were to apply on my own. Plus, they come in great patterns at a super reasonable price point. Chill Tips are a great option for a weekend or an event where you want something fun on your nails but don't want to pay to get acrylics done. Using these was a bright spot in quarantine for me, and I think that's what beauty should be.”
- Janet & Jo. / Lisa Moses8
Best Nail Polish: Janet & Jo. Spring 2021 Polish Collection
This “10-free” nail polish (more on that below) wowed testers with its highly pigmented, long-lasting lacquers. Plus, with vibrant shades aptly named for These Times, like Online Therapy and Quarantine Queen, how can you resist? See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This polish is 10-free, meaning it’s not formulated with 10 potential toxins and carcinogens, like formaldehyde.
One tester said: “I have to say that I am impressed! I have tried many nail polishes in my lifetime and this line has to be one of the better quality ones I have had the chance to use. The color was perfect for my skin tone as well. Great quality, and I would certainly recommend it.”
- Hawaiian Tropic / Lisa Moses9
Best Self-Tanning Foam: Hawaiian Tropic Moisturizing Self-Tanning Foam
When it comes to buying self-tanner, you want a streak-free, long-lasting, and transfer-resistant formula. This foam from Hawaiian Tropic checked all of our testers’ boxes, plus one more: It smells good. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This self-tanner contains vitamin E and aloe, which derms say help to moisturize skin.
Just so you know: This product contains dyes and fragrances that may be irritating to some with sensitive skin.
One tester said: “The formula is really nice and has a great scent to it, which is not always the case with self-tanner. Even though I didn't leave it on overnight, it was still really effective—and it lasted a surprisingly long time. Seriously, even after five days, the tan was still really vibrant, and I’m someone who sweats a lot, so that's a pretty big deal.”
- Bali Body / Lisa Moses10
Best Self-Tanning Water: Bali Body Clear Self-Tanning Water
One of the more unsavory side effects of a fake tan is the way it tends to soak into clothes, sheets, and furniture. This dye-free, water-based self-tanner from Bali Body turned heads not only for the long-lasting tan it gives, but also for its transfer-resistant formula. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This product contains moisturizing glycerin and coconut oil.
Just so you know: This product contains fragrances.
One tester said: “This self-tanner delivers a flawless golden glow with zero streaks. The liquid is clear, so you don’t have to worry about the dye getting on your clothing, furniture, or sheets while you wait for it to set. The liquid is silky smooth and glides easily over my skin, so you really don’t have to use much product to cover one area. All in all, this is a great, clear self-tanner!”
- Glossier / Lisa Moses11
Best Body Oil: Glossier Dry Oil Touch Mist
A good body oil soaks in quickly, doesn’t feel sticky, and keeps your skin feeling soft and moisturized. This body oil spray from Glossier is scented with neroli and orange blossom that takes you on a mini vacation every time you use it. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This body oil contains nourishing sunflower, oat, and grape-seed oils.
Just so you know: This body oil contains fragrance. Our testers noted to avoid spraying it near a tile or wood floor, as it can get slippery. Also, glass bottle + oily hand = be careful. (Our testers speak from experience!)
One tester said: “The fragrance of this oil mist is divine and left my skin feeling velvety soft. Plus, the packaging makes it look extra luxe.”
- glee / Lisa Moses12
Best At-Home Body Wax: Glee The Body Wax
Whether you’re an at-home wax pro or novice, this body wax from Glee makes the whole process (mostly) painless. Each box comes with 32 wax strips, plus six finishing wipes. Our testers loved the simple instructions and quick hair-removal process. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: The wax on the strips contains mineral oil, which derms like for its moisturizing properties.
One tester said: “Even though I hadn't shaved in a while, it did a wonderful job removing most of my hair, requiring minimal touch-ups. If you need to get rid of some pesky hairs or touch up some of your legs or arms, these wax strips will come in clutch. Plus, you'll love the wipes for removing any remaining wax, as they soothe and leave a pleasant aloe scent.”
- No Mo-Stache / Lisa Moses13
Best Facial Hair Remover: No Mo-Stache Facial Razor
If you’re into dermaplaning or just not vibing with your peach fuzz, this handy facial razor might be just what you need. The stainless steel blade offered our testers a close, precise shave exactly where they needed it, and they loved that it’s foldable for easy, safe storage. See full product info here.
One tester said: “Where are all my mustache ladies at? I used to use my literal leg razor to shave my full-on puberty-style ’stache. This razor is small enough that I can get around the corners of my lips and chin without worrying about slicing myself, and it folds in half so I can stow it in my makeup bag without fear of reaching in and losing a finger. It's easy to rinse and store, and I am hyped to keep using this weekly.”
- tenoverten / Lisa Moses14
Best Nail Strengthening Treatment: Tenoverten The Rehab
Acrylics, gel manicures, and chronic picking can lead to damaged, thin nails. This reparative base coat from Tenoverten relies on celery seed extract to moisturize and rehydrate stressed-out nails. Our reviewers loved how healthy it made their nails look after just one use. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This polish contains tea tree oil, which dermatologists love for its calming and antiseptic properties.
One tester said: “This was incredible! My nails have been really flakey, thin, and damaged for literally three months after a single gel manicure destroyed me. Within a week, my nails were significantly longer and stronger, and not just because I hadn't picked at them—they were genuinely growing differently. I also love that this gave my nails a subtle shine. I can't wait to use it again—and throw out all of my other treatments, ASAP.”
- ORLY / Lisa Moses15
Best Cuticle Oil: Orly Breathable Cuticle Oil Hydrating Nail Treatment
After cold months and lots of handwashing, your cuticles might need some TLC. This nourishing cuticle oil from Orly is infused with citrus essential oils that our reviewers enjoyed. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This cuticle oil contains argan and jojoba oils, as well as vitamin E, all of which are derm approved for moisturizing dry skin.
One tester said: “My cuticles are very thick and they grow really quickly, and I have a tendency to bite them which makes them raggedy and dry. This cuticle oil instantly makes my nails and cuticles look nicer, and after using it every day for a week, I noticed that my cuticles were much more manageable and soft.”
- Keys Soulcare / Lisa Moses16
Best Body Balm for Dry or Rough Spots: Keys Soulcare Comforting Balm
A good universal skin balm is an essential for dry bits like lips, elbows, and knees. Our testers used this warm-vanilla-scented balm to keep their brows in place and add a dewy finish to their highlighter. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This balm is packed with moisturizing avocado oil, sunflower oil, and shea butter.
One tester said: “This is such a good product! It smells like a vanilla dewy dream! I carry it everywhere with me and apply it anywhere on my skin I feel dry—and dang, it works!”
- Lord Jones / Lisa Moses17
Best Body Serum: Lord Jones Bump & Smooth CBD Body Serum
This body serum from cult-favorite CBD brand Lord Jones uses AHAs to gently exfoliate and soften bumpy skin, ideal for those who have keratosis pilaris. Our testers liked how quickly it soaks in and were pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness in reducing the appearance of their KP. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus points, per the experts: This product is formulated with moisturizing squalane and ceramides, which derms say help to protect and repair the skin. It also contains salicylic and lactic acids, two powerful, derm-approved chemical exfoliants.
Just so you know: This product contains salicylic acid, which may irritate very dry, sensitive skin.
One tester said: “As someone with keratosis pilaris, I’ve tried countless amounts of OTC and prescribed treatments; very few actually perform or show results. Also, they typically have a powerful and terrible odor. This product is one of the few that I can say actually works. Even after the first use, I saw a ‘softening’ of my KP. The product spreads nicely with little tack and absorbs quickly. Plus, it leaves my skin pretty soft!”
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