Body Butter vs Body Lotion

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between body butters and body lotions? The simple answer is water. Butters do not contain any water. Lotions are typically 50-70% water.

Butters are thicker and heavier. They do not require any preservatives. Their purpose, beyond moisturizing, is to create a physical barrier against environmental conditions (think protecting your skin against extreme cold, wind, pollution, sand). Your skin absorbs a butter more slowly and it may leave behind an oily or sticky residue. A true body butter should be more solid in nature and require rubbing in your hands to “melt” it for use. Imagine taking a stick of butter, melting some with the warmth of your hands and rubbing it onto your skin. That is essentially what you are doing. Butters are made up of specific combinations of oils and butters derived from plants, each with a specific purpose in mind.

Lotions, on the other hand, do contain water and where there is water, there is life. Lotions therefore require a preservative to prevent bacteria, mold and other dangerous pathogens from forming. Lotions made without a preservative have a maximum shelf life of less than a week (even if you keep it in a refrigerator!). Many preservatives are plant derived so if you’re avoiding harsh chemicals, you can breathe a sigh of relief. The purpose of a lotion, beyond moisturizing, is hydration. Lotions contain water to help your skin absorb it. They are typically lighter in nature and more liquid in physical appearance. Lotions are made primarily of oils and butters chosen for their particular properties. A lotion made with more butters than oils will be thicker. These tend to be “winter” lotions. Those made with more oil than butter will be runnier. These are more your “summer” formulations. Both should absorb quickly and leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Price-wise, a butter is going to cost more than a lotion, simply because it is made up solely of pure ingredients. Lotions cost less to make because of the major component of water.

So which is better? Well really, it depends on your needs, your goals, and your preferences. If you have specific needs, are looking for a tailored formula or are avoiding certain ingredients commonly found in butters and lotions, contact us for a consultation on designing a product especially for you.