They say it’s spring. They also seem to be saying it’s the season of some hard-working, high-active body launches—but not without some stress and smart thinking when it comes to the fine-tuned formulations that are good enough to use on the face. “This one was a labor of love,” shares Nécessaire’s CEO and cofounder, Randi Christiansen on the line’s just-launched The Body Retinol. “It took two-and-a-half-years to concept and develop. With this formula we wanted to create a targeted serum designed to help repair crepiness, lines, spots, scars, marks and bumps. We always say, ‘Treat Your Body Like Your Face,’ and with that we set out to pioneer a solution-led approach to body skin care.”
Read on to find out more about the facial-grade actives who are set on addressing body-skin concerns.
Nécessaire The Body Retinol ($55)
In addition to a 0.1-percent pure encapsulated retinol, Christiansen also added 10-percent AHA, as well as with five peptides and vitamins. The result: A multitasking mix that achieves results—with zero irritation. “The formula is a serum-in-balm texture that delivers retinol with comfort. The formula is hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic,” she attests.
OSEA Undaria Collagen Body Lotion ($48)
The team from Malibu has done it again with its latest thought-out launch: an instant-absorbing lotion that counts peptides and hyaluronic acid as the secret to mega-hydration, minus a whole lot of fuss.
Isle of Paradise ($26)
They may have revolutionized the self-tanner game (according to the brand, they successfully introduced 60-percent of new consumers into the tricky category), but Isle of Paradise is also about to power into the body-actives category with some unassuming grace. “Taking our mission one step further, we’re now transforming the body-care category with skincare-first, efficacious body products,” says founder Jules von Hep, who pinpoints the time span of “years” to perfect his latest body collection. “It was a natural progression. We’ve championed the power of glow through customizable self-tan and the direct impact it has on confidence. Through extensive research on the power of the shower and the impact it has on overall wellbeing both physically and mentally, we’re now disrupting the body care category in the same way we continue to evolve the conversation around self-care/self-love.” The result: A great-smelling, easy-to-use line that relies heavily on impressive actives and targeted ingredients.
Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Body Serum ($18)
Do not discount the pretty exterior: The new body line, which employs the unexpected, lesser-paired mix of retinoids and mushrooms, works hard on the heavy lifting while you sleep. We’re calling out the Serum, but there’s also an incredibly lovely lotion option that’s equally as effective.
U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound ($128)
Via the perfect blend of skin-loving exfoliators, Tina Craig has delivered a twist on her “Saran Wrap in a jar”—only, this time, the decadent formula is for the body. And it is, in a word, fabulous.
Kosas Good Body Skin AHA + Enzyme Exfoliating Body Wash in Juicy Clean ($22)
Touting some undoubtedly “creamsicle” notes, this AHA and fruit-enzyme hero is the answer to clear, dewy skin.
Lendava Firming Body Cream ($58)
Meet a very “skinimalism” brand that is doing it right (bonus: they didn’t forget about the sensitive skin types!) via very chic packaging and an ingredient list that includes retinol and antioxidants, as well as an impressive refill model.
SIDIA Body Serum ($52)
The labor of a lot of work takes form in this lightweight, plant-based body serum that comes in a spray bottle and delivers a whole lot of HA-powered hydration.
Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Body Lotion ($17)
Glycolic is great and Naturium doesn’t need to be reminded. The brand’s latest launch didn’t skimp on a high level of it in its latest big-lotion launch (it’s literally one of the biggest lotions you can buy for under $20). It’s good and it doesn’t disrupt even the most sensitive skin types.
Dr. Barbara Sturm Anti-Aging Body Scrub ($110)
The doctor is in with the brand’s latest introduction, a sea salt–infused (that’s for starters) oil-based scrub that counts CoQ10 and vitamins E and F as part of the expert-approved formula.
Tatcha Forest Awakening Hinoki Body Care Trio ($124)
This spa-focused trio does everything with the senses in mind via gentle cleansing, exfoliation and a subtle nod to self-care.
Versed Total Package Replenishing Body Lotion Mineral SPF 30 ($20)
Body SPFs may seem boring, but hear us out: This just-launched one is perfect for any post-retinol, post-exfoliator use, which makes it an essential endcap to the above list. Best of all, it’s sheer, super nourishing and soothing, thanks to cupuaçu butter, soothing grapeseed oil, and non-nano zinc oxide.