Salicylic acid exfoliates and helps soften rough skin to smooth texture, while lactic acid exfoliates to renew the skin’s surface; together they help soften, smooth, and moisturize the skin.
They’re typically aimed at normal to dry skin and at rough, bumpy, or very dry skin. Many formulations are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and labeled suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
Common pairings include ceramides, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, vitamin D, and niacinamide; some products also use ingredients or technologies intended to help retain moisture.
They’re commonly described as non-greasy, lightweight, and fast-absorbing. Several formulas are noted as having a velvety or quick-absorbing texture.
Whipped body butters are described as lightweight, airy, and fast-absorbing with a non-greasy feel, while richer body butters and creams are described as thick, creamy, and deeply hydrating.
