Being consistent with our facial skincare routines is something that’s a no-brainer to most of us. But over the past few years, the importance of maintaining a bodycare routine has gradually been levelling up, too – and now, most of us are giving our body skin the same respect as our face.
But apart from daily showering, you may not be so clear on the products and ingredients that will keep your skin in tip-top condition. That’s why we consulted with an expert to produce this guide on the key steps to a strong bodycare routine – and the skincare ingredients that can tackle different body skincare concerns. Without further ado…
How to build the ultimate bodycare routine – including the ingredients to look out for
What ingredients are important in a good bodycare routine?
“For general maintenance, I recommend hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide for strengthening the skin barrier and evening tone, and ceramides for moisture retention,” advises award-winning cosmetic physician Dr Emmaline Ashley. “Glycerin is also a wonderful humectant suitable for all skin types.” As for more specific skin concerns, Dr
Dr Ashley recommends the following.
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“Alpha-hydroxy acids like lactic or glycolic acid are excellent for improving texture and addressing keratosis pilaris, those small bumps on arms and thighs.”
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“Urea and salicylic acid work beautifully for rough, dry patches.”
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“Vitamin C helps with pigmentation and sun damage.”
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“Soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal are fantastic for sensitive or irritated skin.”
“A good bodycare routine doesn't need to be overly complicated, but consistency is key,” says Dr Ashley. “I recommend four basic steps: gentle cleansing with lukewarm water, regular exfoliation 2–3 times weekly, moisturising hydration, and of course SPF. Then, if you have a specific skin concern you can incorporate more targeted treatments.”
Step 1: Cleanse
Probably the one step you already have nailed is cleansing the skin on your body. While a really hot shower is tempting, especially in winter, washing with overly hot water can strip the skin. As Dr Ashley advises, try to be gentle and wash with warm water where possible.
HydroPeptide Glow Revive Body Wash
A brightening and glow-boosting formula that incorporates exfoliating shikimic acid and caffeine.
Epionce Purifying Wash
A clarifying face and body wash with salicylic acid, an exfoliating ingredient, this cleanser helps to target and reduce breakouts.
Step 2: Exfoliate
Regular exfoliation is a great way to keep your skin smooth – though don’t be tempted to overdo it, either. A couple of times weekly is the sweet spot for most people, with Dr Ashley recommended two or three times a week. You may choose to use body wash with exfoliating ingredients or a dedicated body scrub.
Jan Marini Bioglycolic Resurfacing Body Scrub
Combining both physical exfoliation with small particles and chemical exfoliation through glycolic acid, this body scrub is a double-pronged attack against rough, bumpy skin.
Step 3: Moisturise
As with the skin on our faces, moisturising is key to the condition of our body skin. “One technique I often recommend to patients is applying moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp after showering,” says Dr Ashley. “This helps lock in hydration more effectively.”
NEOSTRATA RESTORE Bionic Lotion
A nourishing lotion that works to restore dry and sensitive skin, NEOSTRATA’s Bionic Lotion is fortified with PHA for gentle exfoliation and moisture, plus antioxidants.
ALASTIN Skincare TRANSform Body Complex
With a unique complex that works to restore skin’s collagen and elastin levels, plus hydrating hyaluronic acid, ALASTIN’s Body Complex manages to be both nourishing and non-greasy.
Step 4: Sun protection
Sun protection is an absolute non-negotiable for any exposed areas of skin, especially during the sunnier months. It’s integral to skin health and condition for two reasons – one, to shield the skin from UV from the sun, which causes DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer. Secondly, the sun is the biggest cause of visible skin ageing, degrading our collagen and elastin and inducing wrinkles. Broad-spectrum suncream is therefore a must. In winter, apply a hand cream with SPF.
Heliocare 360º Advanced Gel Body SPF 50
The ultra-light gel absorbs quickly with no greasy residue or white cast, leaving skin feeling comfortable and protected. Water, sweat and sand-resistant, it’s ideal for active lifestyles and can be applied directly to wet skin – perfect for families on the go.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Body Shield SPF 50
Designed with EnviroScreen™ Technology to provide invisible, 100% mineral protection from environmental aggressors such as UVA/UVB, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. Broad Spectrum (UVA/UVB) SunscreenUVA protection rating: PA+++UVB protection rating: SPF 50Water-resistant
Lucy Abbersteen
Beauty editor, copywriter, and consultant with nearly a decade of experience in the industry. Formerly a Junior Digital Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK, she has written for top outlets like Cosmopolitan, Refinery29, and Glamour. Known for her accessible approach to beauty, she blends editorial expertise with creative strategy and content development.
Let our Skin Experts help you discover your personalised bodycare routine and explore the full range of body products at Skin Pharmacy.
Email hello@skinpharmacy.com or call us on 020 3070 3833 or 07522 002050.
