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The Difference Between Body Lotion, Body Butter, and Body Cream (and Why I Chose Cream)

A set of eigh different tins of body cream

Let’s talk moisturisers. The world of skincare is full of fancy names, shiny promises, and confusing choices. Body lotion, body butter, body cream… what’s the actual difference? And why, out of all of them, did I decide to make a luxury body cream? Let me walk you through it. No jargon, no fluff, just a very quick read covering what you need to know (and if there’s anything I haven’t covered, please, just ask!).

A set of eigh different tins of body cream

So
 what IS the difference?

Body lotion is the lightest of the three. It’s usually made with a high water content and a little oil, which makes it quick to absorb but not hugely nourishing. Think of it like a splash of hydration – great in summer when you don’t want to feel sticky, but it doesn’t hang around for long. Fine if your skin is already pretty happy. Less helpful if it’s feeling dry or cranky.

Body butter is the opposite end of the spectrum. Thick, rich, and packed with butters like shea or cocoa. It’s a bit like slathering yourself in custard (in a good way?). It’s brilliant for very dry or flaky skin, but it can feel heavy or greasy, especially if you’re trying to put on clothes five minutes later.

Body cream sits beautifully in the middle. It’s more nourishing than a lotion, but lighter and quicker to absorb than a butter. It’s the Goldilocks option – not too light, not too heavy, just right.

A tin of body body cream with a blue and beige label
Luxury Body Cream – Traeth

Why I went with cream

Honestly? I wanted something lush but also practical. Something that felt like a treat but didn’t leave you flapping around in a towel for half an hour waiting to dry off. (We’ve all been there!)

My body cream is rich enough to really soften your skin – elbows, shins, all those tricky bits – but it sinks in quickly and doesn’t feel sticky. I use nourishing, plant-based butters (shea & cocoa) but I balance them with a gentle water phase and emulsifier so you get that smooth, creamy texture without the greasy aftermath.

Plus, and this is important, I make it in scents that actually make you want to moisturise. I do have a “fragrance-free” option of course, but there’s also a scent (to match the most popular soap bars) for every taste. Think beautiful florals like Blodau, fun fruity favourites like Watermelon, or cosy, warming scents like Cysur.

When to use it

After a bath? Yes. Before bed? Absolutely. Legs out weather? Essential.

It’s great for everyday use, especially if you’re already using my soap, which is gentle and non-drying. It’s especially beneficial if you leave the skin slightly damp, rather than thoroughly dry, before using it – the cream just locks in any residual moisture and gives your skin that extra little bit of TLC.

Watermelon Body Cream
Watermelon Body Cream

If you’ve ever stood in front of a shelf wondering what on earth to pick, I hope this helps. Lotion is quick but fleeting. Butter is rich but clingy. Body cream? It’s luxurious without being fussy, it’s kind to skin, and it’s easy to love.

That’s why I make cream. If you haven’t tried it yet
 well, this might just be your sign. Click here to see all the options 😉