Beauty
Fact-checked

At BeautyAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Choose the Best Bath Oil?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

When choosing a bath oil, you should choose a product that will hydrate dry skin, yet not leave an oily residue on your skin. It is important to choose an oil that will not clog your pores, so read the label carefully. You can also choose bath oils that are all natural or organic, or you may choose an aromatherapy bath oil. Bath oils may be in the form of beads or liquid.

Bath oils from name-brand manufacturers may be more expensive than off-brand products, but this does not guarantee a better quality product. For best results, it's important to check the ingredients of bath oils and compare. Whether you choose name-brand bath oils or generic brands, you will most likely be able to choose from various scents.

A few drops of rosemary essential oil can moisturize skin while bathing.
A few drops of rosemary essential oil can moisturize skin while bathing.

Many bath oils contain ingredients to moisturize dry skin. If you suffer from dry or flaky sky, look for bath oil products containing vitamin E. Some bath oils also contain aloe. If you have skin irritations or rashes, aloe is soothing and should relieve the itch.

Bath oils that contain cocoa or shea butter may soothe conditions such as dermatitis or eczema. Mineral oil is another ingredient to look for when shopping for bath oil. Check for bath oils that have been dermatologist tested. If you have a chronic skin condition, however, it is best to consult with your physician before using a product you've not tried before.

Essential oils can be added to bath salts.
Essential oils can be added to bath salts.

If you have sensitive skin, look for a non-irritating bath oil formula. Fragrance-free bath oils are probably the best for sensitive skin. Also, be certain your bath oil does not contain propylene glycol, as this ingredient is harsh and may irritate your skin. If you're concerned about using products containing chemicals, check to be sure your bath oil does not contain parabens, which are used as preservatives.

Bath oil beads that contain Epsom salt may have added benefits. The Epsom salt bath is said to be very relaxing and calming. This ingredient may also soothe minor aches and muscle strain.

A homemade bath oil can contain olive oil.
A homemade bath oil can contain olive oil.

If you prefer, you can make your own bath oils at home. Use a mixture of various types of oils for best results. Canola and almond oil work well and you can also add a lesser amount of olive oil if you wish. Rosemary oil is an excellent skin moisturizer, so you might want to add a few drops of this essential oil to your bath.

Discussion Comments

sunshined

I like to use bath oils and salts because I know how helpful they are for dry skin, but does anybody else have trouble keeping your tub or shower clean with them?

It seems like no matter what kind I have used, there is always a dirty ring left around the tub. It also makes the tub or shower area very slippery and I feel like I am going to slip when I get in and out.

I realize that using an oil is going to be a little bit messy, but was hoping I could find one that would not leave a ring around the tub. This can be hard to get off, and so I find it easier to just use lotion instead of messing around with a bath oil.

golf07

My skin really takes a beating in the winter. It seems like no matter what kind of lotion I use, it is never enough. I found that my skin was still dry and scaly.

A friend of mine recommend I try using a bath oil which would really soak into my skin and leave it soft and smooth.

Since I am allergic to many things, I was looking for something that didn't have any fragrance. When I started looking at the list of ingredients in the different oils, it didn't look like there was any difference between a luxury bath oil and a cheaper one.

I went with a cheaper bath oil that had the same ingredients as some of the more expensive ones. I apply the oil as soon as I am done taking a shower or bath, and love how soft my skin feels. Even after the first application I noticed a big difference.

bagley79

I like to make a lot of my own bath and beauty products. This way I know exactly what is going in them and the quality of ingredients being used.

A good bath oil is a great way to moisturize and soften your skin. When I make my own bath oil I will mix several different oils together in a glass jar.

I make about 8 ounces at a time, and this will last me for several applications. I use a combination of olive oil, almond, sesame and apricot kernel oil. I also add a little bit of wheat germ oil.

Experimenting with different essential oils is a lot of fun. You can't go wrong here, and just need to find what your favorite scents are. If I want to take a bath right before bed, I will add some lavender essential oil to help me relax.

If I am using the bath oil in the morning and need something to help me wake up, I will add a few drops of peppermint essential oil. This immediately clears my head and helps me feel alert and invigorated.

jonrss

I make my own bath oil by soaking rose blossoms in olive oil. The flavor and aroma of the roses infuses into the oil and a little drop of it in my bath makes the entire room fragrant.

Its so easy and so cheap. I started doing it after seeing it demonstrated on TV. You can use just about anything you want to infuse the oil.

ddljohn

My toddler has eczema and I've been trying different bath and body oils for her. The only one which has worked is a bath oil I found at the pharmacy which has been specially formulated for people with sensitive skin. It doesn't have any fragrance, colors or harsh chemicals. It also doesn't leave a greasy feeling.

It has been working great for my daughter. It's very gentle and relieves the dryness really well. In fact, I've started using it as well because I get really flaky and itchy skin in wintertime.

The only two ingredients listed on the bottle is light liquid paraffin at 85% and propyl hydroxybenzoate as a preservative.

ElizaBennett

@turkay1 - Tea tree oil can be miraculous stuff. It has antifungal properties! I wonder if bathing in it could be beneficial to people who are prone to fungal infections, like yeast, jock itch, or athlete's foot.

A lot of people who cloth diaper use tea tree oil in their wash or in their wipes solution to prevent the growth of yeast. You're right to suggest caution, though - you could be allergic to any bath and body oil and it's never a good idea to take a substance you haven't been exposed to before and soak in it without testing it out!

burcinc

My favorite bath oil is rose bath oil. The one I have has rose oils from all around the world and smells unbelievably good.

I think the two most important things I'm looking for in a bath oil is moisture and aromatherapy effects. I want the scent of the oil to remain on me for some time after the bath is over. I also want my skin to be hydrated enough that I don't have to smother my skin with body lotion afterward.

I really like rose bath oil because I smell like roses all day after my bath. This oil I'm using has a musk scent in it, so that lingers on for a long time as well. It also has honey which is so good for skin. It makes my skin really soft and supple. I love it.

candyquilt

I have really oily skin and some acne on my chest and back. So I can't use very moisturizing oils in my bath or it will make my skin worse.

The one product I have been using with good results is organic bath oil with tea tree oil in it. I put just a little bit in my bath water, three-four drops and it's enough. Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties and it is recommended for people with oily, acne-prone skin.

I also use face cleansers with tea tree oil to manage the acne on my face. Adding tea tree oil in my bath water has turned out to be good way to fight acne on my chest and back as well.

Before anyone tries this out though, I suggest doing a skin test with tea tree oil first. My sister is allergic to tea tree oil and develops a rash if she uses anything with tea tree oil. So it's best to check first on your arm and see if it causes any allergic reactions.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A few drops of rosemary essential oil can moisturize skin while bathing.
      By: marilyn barbone
      A few drops of rosemary essential oil can moisturize skin while bathing.
    • Essential oils can be added to bath salts.
      By: viperagp
      Essential oils can be added to bath salts.
    • A homemade bath oil can contain olive oil.
      By: Angel Simon
      A homemade bath oil can contain olive oil.
    • Name-brand bath oils are not necessarily better products.
      By: Lesiv
      Name-brand bath oils are not necessarily better products.
    • The same canola oil that's popularly used for cooking can be used for making bath oils.
      By: branex
      The same canola oil that's popularly used for cooking can be used for making bath oils.