Body Skincare: Can You Use Face Actives on Your Body?
Body skincare is having a moment. Ingredients once reserved for the face, such as retinol, peptides and vitamin C, are increasingly being used on the arms, chest, legs and hands. Your skin is one organ from head to toe, so it makes sense, but body skin is also different from facial skin. Here is what to know before you take your face routine below the neck.
Is Body Skin Different From Face Skin?
Yes. Skin on the body is generally thicker and has fewer oil glands than facial skin, which is why it can feel dry more easily, especially in winter. Some areas are far more delicate than others: the neck, chest and inner arms are thin and reactive, while elbows and knees are tougher. This means a gentle, gradual approach works best, particularly with active ingredients.
Which Face Ingredients Can Go on the Body?
- Vitamin C - an antioxidant that helps protect skin from everyday environmental stress and helps brighten the look of skin. It is a popular choice for the neck and chest, which show sun exposure first. Our Organic Face Serum with Vitamin C can be extended down the neck. See what vitamin C does for your skin.
- Retinol and vitamin A alternatives - often used on the neck and chest to support the look of firmer skin. Introduce slowly, apply at night and always wear SPF during the day, as these ingredients can make skin more sensitive to the sun. Our Anti-Ageing Skincare: The Complete Guide explains how to add them safely.
- Peptides and ceramides - a gentle way to help skin feel firmer, smoother and more comfortable, and generally well tolerated.
- Gentle exfoliation - helpful for rough or bumpy skin on the arms and legs, but go easy. Our Exfoliating Body Mitt is a simple option for a gentle, regular polish.
Where to Be Careful
Do not layer several strong actives at once, and avoid using them on broken, sunburnt or irritated skin. Always patch test first, as our guide on how to do a patch test explains. Face products are made for a smaller area, so using them all over the body can also be costly, which is why a good body moisturiser should still be your foundation.
Do Not Forget Sun Protection and Self-Tan Prep
Body skin gets sun too, and the chest and hands show it first. Use an SPF on exposed areas every day. If you like a faux glow, well-moisturised, gently exfoliated skin takes self-tan more evenly, and our Self-Tan: The Complete Guide shows how to prep skin before you apply.
A Simple Body Skincare Routine
- Cleanse with a gentle, non-stripping wash, and use lukewarm rather than hot water.
- Exfoliate once or twice a week with a mitt, avoiding sore or sensitive areas.
- Treat targeted areas such as the neck and chest with your vitamin C serum or a night-time vitamin A alternative.
- Moisturise everywhere with a rich body cream such as our Natural Fragrance Free Hand & Body Cream, ideally straight after washing while skin is still slightly damp.
- Protect exposed skin with SPF in the daytime.
If your body skin is very dry or itchy, see Dry & Dehydrated Skin: The Complete Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use face products on my body?+
Often yes, particularly on the neck and chest, but body skin is thicker and drier than facial skin, so a good body moisturiser should be your foundation. Introduce actives gradually and patch test first.
Can I use retinol on my body?+
Many people use retinol or vitamin A alternatives on the neck and chest. Start slowly, use it at night and wear SPF in the daytime, as it can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
Why is my body skin so dry?+
Body skin has fewer oil glands than facial skin, so it dries out more easily, especially in winter or with hot showers. Moisturise straight after washing while skin is slightly damp.
How often should I exfoliate my body?+
Once or twice a week is plenty for most people. Skip exfoliation on sore, sunburnt or irritated skin.
Do I need SPF on my body?+
Yes, on any skin exposed to daylight, particularly the chest, neck, arms and hands, which tend to show sun damage first.
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These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have a medical condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional before use.
