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Top 8 Best Smelling Body Oils

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Last updated June 7, 2024

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Skincare oils are rich and highly beneficial and should be incorporated into the beauty regimen. These treatments offer deep moisturizing and make your skin look smooth and silky. However, not all body oils are the same. Some can make your skin feel oily or even have a strong smell. That is where the best smelling body oils come in.

The best smelling body oils not only moisturize the skin but also make your skin smell pleasant. They are available in different fragrances, including floral, citrus, and even musky ones. Therefore, while selecting the body oil, it is crucial to consider the list of ingredients and the fragrance. You do not want it to be too strong or overpowering and the ingredients used should be good for your skin.

In order to determine which body oils are the best smelling, we dedicated several hours to gathering and comparing the samples. In the next sections, you will find our recommendations and why we thought they were great.

Top 3 Best Smelling Body Oils

  1. Hempz Hydrating Bath and Body Oil
  2. SheaMoisture Daily Hydration Body Oil
  3. Nativa SPA Plum Body Oil

It is our understanding that the process of searching for the right body oil can sometimes be rather challenging, in particular when it comes to fragrance. That is why we have taken our time and researched in order to come up with a list of the best smelling body oils. Whether it is some floral note or something raw and gritty, we’ve got you covered.

Hempz Hydrating Bath and Body Oil

The Editor's Choice

Try the Hempz Hydrating Body Oil – lightweight, fast penetrating, and imparts a velvety non-oily finish to the skin. The delightful pineapple and honey melon smell remains dominant and fitting as a refreshing snack. It is a non-paraben, non-cruelty, and non-gluten formula that is suitable for people with sensitive skin. Take your skin care regimen to the next level with this premium pick.

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Hempz Hydrating Bath and Body Oil is one of the best body oils that help in nourishing and moisturizing the skin while giving it a nice aroma.

Pros

  • This body oil is paraben-free, cruelty-free/vegan, and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
  • The silky, lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized all day.
  • The sweet pineapple and honey melon scent is refreshing and invigorating, making it perfect for daily use.

Cons

  • The pump dispenser may leak or dispense too much product at once, leading to waste.
  • The price point may be higher than some other body oils on the market.
  • The product may not be suitable for those with nut allergies, as it contains natural hemp seed oil.

We liked the fragrance of a sweet pineapple and honey melon which gave us a refreshing smell for a whole day. We also like it that the formula does not contain parabens, is not tested on animals, and is gluten-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

In general, we are satisfied with the Hempz Hydrating Bath and Body Oil for those who are looking for a quality body oil that effectively moisturizes the skin and has a very pleasant aroma.

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If you are in search of an every day body oil that will work for all skin types, then, SheaMoisture’s Daily Hydration Body Oil is a perfect choice. This moisturizing body oil is enriched with Acacia Senegal, Virgin Coconut Oil, Coconut Milk, and other natural oils, making it non-greasy, quickly absorbed, and ideal for clients with dry skin.

Pros

  • Leaves the skin soft and feeling pampered
  • Provides a natural glow without a greasy look and feel
  • Can be used as a bath oil, shower oil, after-shower body oil, and body moisturizer

Cons

  • Strong coconut oil scent that may overpower other scents
  • Bottle may leak if not closed properly
  • May not be suitable for those who prefer unscented products

They are perfect for daily wear and can be worn in many different ways so it is a great product. However, the smell of coconut oil might be overpowering to some users and the bottle may even spill if it is not closed properly.

In summary, if you need a good hydrating body oil, then you should give SheaMoisture’s Daily Hydration Body Oil a try.

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The Nativa SPA Plum Body Oil is a perfect choice for all the ladies who search for a nourishing and beautifully scented body oil.

Pros

  • The super-concentrated formula brightens and plumps skin, protecting against radical damage and oxidative stress.
  • The invigorating properties of plum extract keep your skin moisturized, soft and smooth from head to toe.
  • The blend of nourishing natural oils quickly absorb into skin creating a powerful protective barrier that leaves behind a non-greasy, velvet feel that is supple and silky to the touch.

Cons

  • The fragrance may not be suitable for those who prefer unscented products.
  • The price point may be higher than other body oils on the market.
  • The packaging may be difficult to travel with due to its size.

The woody floriental scent is fresh and has a long-lasting power, which would suit individuals who want to continually smell good throughout the day. The 100% vegetable, non-animal formula boosts quinoa oil, omegas, nutrients, and benefits that you can really touch.

The concentrated formula is very dense and moist, which is ideal for dry skin types. The purified quinoa drops to assist in improving the skin’s water retention and stimulating collagen synthesis so that skin firmness is not compromised. The oil seeps into the skin and does not leave an oily feeling but gives the skin a soft silken texture.

The Nativa SPA Plum Body Oil is an excellent product for those willing to invest in a nourishing body oil with a pleasant scent. This super-concentrated lotion is perfect for brightening skin and plumping it; plum extract also invigorates skin from head to toe and makes it soft and smooth. The combination of the natural oils gets easily assimilated into the skin and forms a shield on the skin that is not oily but velvety and soft to the touch.

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For those who want a firmer-looking skin and with the added aroma of SOL DE JANEIRO Bum Bum Firmeza Body Oil, we highly recommend this product.

Pros

  • The oil has a lovely, long-lasting scent that will leave you smelling great all day.
  • The caffeine complex and algae extract in the oil promote lymphatic drainage, which can lead to firmer-looking skin.
  • The oil is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Cons

  • The price is a bit high compared to other body oils on the market.
  • Some users may find the fragrance too strong or overpowering.
  • The oil may not be moisturizing enough for those with very dry skin.

It has a lovely smell, which stays on for hours, and it doesn’t leave the skin oily at all; instead, it sinks into the skin immediately. We also liked caffeine complex and algae extract which may improve the condition of the lymphatic system and lead to skin firming within several weeks.

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We believe that anyone searching for a multipurpose and natural skincare product should try the Provence Beauty Honey Suckle Jasmine Multi-Use Oil.

Pros

  • This natural, multi-tasking oil can be used for hands, body, face, hair, and nails.
  • The organic blend of oils firms, smooths, and brightens skin, improving the appearance of uneven skin tones, dry, and aging skin.
  • The powerful antioxidant Vitamin E moisturizes, nourishes, and soothes skin, acting as a natural anti-aging nutrient within your body.

Cons

  • The scent of honeysuckle jasmine might not be everyone's cup of tea.
  • The oil might take a while to absorb completely, so it's best to apply it at night or when you have some extra time.
  • The bottle might leak if not stored upright.

The oil is not very greasy and penetrates the skin easily making the skin soft and silky. We like that it is multi-purpose because we can use it in our hair, nails, and even our cuticles. Honeysuckle jasmine smells more like a clean scent with a touch of sweetness, and we are glad that this product is natural, organic, and vegan. We also appreciate that it is cruelty-free, paraben-free, phthalates-free, alcohol-free, and free of other bad for you chemicals. And it is made here in the USA, which we always like to see whenever possible.

We believe that Provence Beauty Honey Suckle Jasmine Multi-Use Oil is a useful product for anyone who would like their skin to be healthy and beautiful. It is a safe and healthy choice for people who want to avoid chemical products for the skin but still get effective and cheap treatment

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If you need a sweet and long-lasting body oil, you should try Onisavings Romeriza Pink Sugary Fragrance Body Oil.

Pros

  • Made with premium quality ingredients
  • Light and refreshing fragrance
  • Ideal gift for adults

Cons

  • May cause skin irritation
  • Scent may not be strong enough for some
  • Bottle design may not be convenient for use

It is made of vegetable glycerin and does not contain alcohol or animal-derived products. It has a light and fresh scent which is more appropriate for daily use and can last the whole day.

Another thing that makes this body oil wonderful is that it can be given to adults as gifts. Whether you are applying it to a friend’s birthday or for your special somebody, this body oil is perfect.

However, it should be pointed out that some users may develop rashes when they apply this product. Also, it may not produce a very powerful smell that may be suitable for those who like their products to have a strong smell. Lastly, the bottle design does not seem to be the most practical one in usage.

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If you are interested in getting a body oil that has a silky finish and comes with an aromatic fragrance then it is recommended that you try Victoria’s Secret Pink Coco Oil Soothing Body Care Body Oil.

Pros

  • The coconut oil in this body oil is great for moisturizing and hydrating your skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.
  • The honey lavender scent is incredibly relaxing and perfect for a before-bed ritual.
  • This body oil is dye-free, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin.

Cons

  • The scent may not be for everyone, as it is quite strong.
  • The bottle can be a bit slippery to hold onto in the shower.
  • This body oil is a bit on the pricey side compared to some other options on the market.

The coconut oil is good for the skin and the honey lavender scent is just soothing for before bed. We also like that it is dye-free since we both have sensitive skin that is prone to developing rashes from some products.

The only drawback is that the scent is quite potent and if you are not a fan of lavender you might want to look at other body oils. Moreover, the bottle is quite slippery to grip in the shower, so one has to be very careful not to lose hold of it. Lastly, we do consider this body oil to be good value for the money, but it is a slightly more expensive product than some other comparable body oils out there.

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For those looking for longer-lasting and warmer fragrances that remain fresh, consider using the recently released Eternal Essence Oils Freshly Baked Premium Fragrance Oils Set.

Pros

  • The scents are buttery rich and perfect for making candles, soaps, air freshener sprays, aromatherapy diffusers, dryer sheets, and cleaning products.
  • The fragrance set is long-lasting, fresh, rich, and warm. The middle notes of pine and gardenia, with nuances of amber, jasmine, and base notes of cedar wood, make it a great choice for all seasons.
  • The amber glass bottle with a black polypropylene ribbed tamper-proof cap and ring with a dropper insert is a perfect holiday gift.

Cons

  • The fragrance oils are for external use only.
  • Some users may find the scents too strong.
  • The set may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.

The fragrances are long-lasting and the set is ideal for the creation of a calming and unique fragrance that is all yours.

The set is ideal for all seasons and the scents are very rich buttery which makes them ideal for making candles, soaps, air freshener sprays, aromatherapy diffusers, dryer sheets, and cleaning products. The secondary tones of pine and gardenia and the accords of amber with jasmine and the base of cedar wood make it suitable for any season.

The amber glass bottle with a black polypropylene ribbed tamper-proof cap and ring with a dropper insert is a perfect holiday gift, and the dropper for fragrance oils inserts a small amount of product to dispense drops to the desired area.

Eternal Essence Oils Freshly Baked Premium Fragrance Oils Set comes highly recommended for those looking for a long-lasting warm and fresh fragrance.

Buying Guide

Choosing the best smelling body oil requires several factors to meet the required smell and skincare solutions. Here's a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision:

Fragrance Profile

Think of the kind of fragrance you like – floral, fruity, woody, or herbal. Select a body oil that has a nice fragrance that you prefer and is appropriate for various times of the day.

Ingredients

Choose body oils with good ingredients that will be good for your skin. Natural oils like argon, jojoba, almond, and coconut are the best for moisturizing and nourishing the skin. If you have sensitive skin avoid products that contain synthetic fragrances or chemicals.

Skin Type

Think of the skin type when choosing the body oil. Therefore, the lighter formulas are perfect for oily or combination skin, while the thicker oils are more suitable for dry or aging skin. Make sure the oil soaks in properly and does not leave the skin feeling greasy.

Versatility

Choose body oils that can multi-task as lotions, massage oils, or added to water when having a bath. Flexible products are preferable since they are of higher utility and can be used in various ways.

Price

Decide how much money you want to spend on body oil, and remember that the more expensive products tend to contain better ingredients and have more sophisticated scents. However, there are still a number of cheaper variants that offer good quality and wonderfully pleasant fragrances.

Brand Reputation

It is recommended that the buyer check the reputation of the brand and read reviews from other clients on the quality and effectiveness of the body oil. Larger and long-established brands associated with particular specialization in skincare are more likely to provide satisfactory experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is good about using body oil?

Sebum helps to moisturize the skin from within, retain moisture, and supply the skin with nutrients it requires. They also provide aromatherapy benefits, and make you feel relaxed with wonderful scents after using them.

2. What are the ways that I can use body oil effectively?

To achieve the best result body oil should be applied immediately after the shower or when the skin is wet. This helps to trap moisture and at the same time enables the oil to soak more efficiently. Body oil can also be used for massages or a few drops can be added to the water while taking a bath.

3. Is it possible to use body oil as a substitute for the usual moisturizer?

It can be applied on its own or on top of your daily lotion. If you have skin type that is severely dry, it will be beneficial to apply the body oil and then follow up with a moisturizer.

4. Is the application of body oils good for every type of skin?

Yes, body oils can be used for any skin type. Of course, it is necessary to select a proper formula depending on the type of skin. The best oils should be non-greasy for oily or combination skin, but heavier oils are suitable for dry and mature skin.

5. How many hours does the scent of body oil last?

The scent of body oil may remain for several hours depending on the type of oil and the level of the concentration of the essential oils used. Reapplying the body oil to damp skin and using a similar body lotion can also help the smell last longer.

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Jeff brings to Buoy over 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medi...
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