From affordable drugstore finds to luxurious body serums, here’s what I’ve been using to keep my skin looking and feeling hydrated.

It’s been a few weeks since I officially switched to body oils as part of my post-shower skincare routine, and I have to say, I’m loving the results!

I’ve used body oils before, but they were always more of an added luxury rather than an essential part of my routine. Now that I’m 43, however, I’ve noticed that my usual body lotions just aren’t cutting it anymore.

My skin started feeling as though the lotion was simply sitting on top rather than providing the lasting moisture I was craving. It was frustrating!

To be fair, most of the lotions I was using were inexpensive drugstore products, typically under $20. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with affordable skincare, but I felt like my body needed a little extra attention.

And strangely enough, it’s almost as if my thoughts manifested into my social media algorithms. Suddenly, I started seeing advertisement after advertisement for trending body oils targeting mature skin.

Some of these commercials were borderline insulting!

They would show women with extremely crepey-looking skin that magically transformed into something resembling a baby’s bottom. I’m sorry, but really? Most women in their 40s don’t have skin that looks like that! LOL.

And honestly, women are looking phenomenal well into their 60s, 70s, and beyond these days.

I won’t mention which brand was responsible for those particularly annoying commercials, but I eventually gave in and tried the product. And surprisingly, despite the ridiculous marketing, the oil actually delivered some lovely results.

That little experiment led me to try several more.

So far, I’ve tested four different body oils and serums, each with different price points, textures, finishes, and levels of accessibility.

And accessibility matters to me! I’m much more likely to stay consistent with a product when I can easily purchase it and have it in my hands within a day or two.

One thing I’ll admit is that I’m pretty generous with how much oil I use. Unfortunately, that means I go through bottles rather quickly, and this new beauty habit is becoming a little expensive.

But I’m finding ways to make it work because my skin genuinely feels softer, smoother, and more comfortable.

I’ve also noticed that the skin on my chest looks smoother and more moisturized, which helps soften the appearance of those pesky sleep lines I sometimes get from sleeping on my side.

If you’ve been following my blog, you may remember my article about training myself to sleep on my back to help prevent chest wrinkles. Yes, I’ve taken my anti-wrinkle efforts that far! LOL.

Now, let’s get into the oils.

Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through certain links, at no additional cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are based on my personal experiences with these products. Thank you for supporting LA Beauty Guide!

1. Naturium The Glow Getter Body Oil — My First Favorite

Price: Approximately $16–$25 | Available on Amazon and through select retailers

The first oil I purchased was Naturium’s The Glow Getter Body Oil.

I actually asked ChatGPT to recommend an affordable body oil I could order from Amazon, and this was one of the suggestions.

At the time of writing, I’ve seen it listed for around $24.99, although I’ve occasionally found it on sale for approximately $16.

I ordered it, received it the next day, and immediately fell in love.

The formula feels nourishing, spreads beautifully, and leaves my skin feeling soft without making my post-shower routine overly complicated.

It’s one of those products I can see myself purchasing again and again.

My verdict: A wonderful everyday body oil and a great introduction to incorporating oils into your body care routine.

2. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Body Oil — My Budget-Friendly Backup

Price: Approximately $9.99 | Available at drugstores and online

Because I’m going through my oils so quickly, I wanted an inexpensive option that I could easily pick up at CVS between purchases.

That’s when I discovered Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Body Oil with Vitamin E.

At approximately $9.99, it’s one of the most affordable products in my current collection.

The texture is noticeably thinner than some of my other oils, but surprisingly, it gets the job done!

Sometimes I’ll pair it with a body lotion for additional moisture, especially when my skin is feeling particularly dry.

Lately, I’ve also been mixing it with my GODA Silk Body Oil, which has become another favorite.

My verdict: An affordable, convenient option that makes it easier to maintain my body care routine without constantly splurging.

3. GODA Silk Body Oil — My Favorite for Going Out

Price: Approximately $34.99 | Available on Amazon

Now we’re getting into the more luxurious side of my body oil collection!

GODA Silk Body Oil has quickly become one of my favorites, particularly for my chest, arms, and the backs of my hands.

What I love most is that it gives my skin a beautiful, moisturized appearance without feeling excessively greasy.

It provides just the right amount of softness and sheen, making it perfect when I’m getting dressed to go out.

And the scent? So good!

I love how it blends with my perfumes without overpowering them.

Speaking of perfume, my current signature fragrance combination is Louis Vuitton Attrape-Rêves layered with a couple of spritzes of Lancôme Idôle.

It’s feminine, luxurious, and just the right amount of glamorous.

The GODA oil complements that combination beautifully.

At approximately $34.99 for a relatively small bottle, it’s definitely more of a splurge compared with Palmer’s or Naturium.

But I enjoy the finish so much that I’m willing to cut back on other little expenses, like buying coffee out, to make room for it in my beauty budget.

Priorities, ladies! LOL.

My verdict: My favorite oil for getting dressed up, layering with perfume, and giving my skin a soft, luxurious glow.

4. Beauty From Bees Body Serum — My Rich, At-Home Indulgence

Price: Approximately $35 before shipping and taxes | Available through the brand’s website

The final product in my current collection is Beauty From Bees Body Serum.

Although technically a serum, I use it much like a body oil.

This formula is noticeably richer and heavier than the others, which is why I tend to reserve it for evenings or days when I’m planning to stay home.

I especially love applying it after a long, relaxing shower, when I can slip into comfortable loungewear and take my time with my full skincare routine.

You know the routine: oils, potions, facial massage tools, my beloved Medicube Booster Pro, and anything else I happen to be experimenting with that week. LOL.

The Beauty From Bees serum feels deeply nourishing on my skin, but it does leave a richer, slightly greasy finish.

Because of that, I usually avoid applying it immediately before putting on delicate clothing.

Sometimes I’ll even get dressed first and strategically apply it to the exposed areas of my chest and décolletage.

It’s especially lovely when I want a little extra sheen with a low-cut top.

I was also drawn to the brand’s emphasis on simple ingredients and its founder’s story of creating products for her family’s needs.

At approximately $35, plus taxes and shipping, my total can climb into the $40 range, so this is another product I consider a splurge.

My verdict: A rich, comforting body serum that’s especially enjoyable for nighttime skincare rituals and days when you have time to indulge.

Is Switching to Body Oils Worth the Extra Expense?

Let’s face it: maintaining a beauty routine can get expensive.

And when you’re as generous with product application as I am, those bottles disappear quickly!

That’s one reason I keep the affordable Palmer’s oil on hand. It helps me stretch my more expensive products without giving up a routine I enjoy.

I’ve also learned that more expensive doesn’t automatically mean better.

Each of these products serves a slightly different purpose, and I genuinely enjoy having options depending on my schedule, outfit, and how my skin feels.

One important thing to remember is that body oils primarily help soften the skin and reduce moisture loss. For particularly dry skin, applying an oil over slightly damp skin or pairing it with a moisturizer containing humectants can be especially helpful.

For me, the biggest difference has been how consistently soft and comfortable my skin feels.

And at 43, that’s something I appreciate!

The Rest of My Body Care Routine

Of course, body oils are only one part of my current skincare ritual.

Neutrogena Rainbath Refreshing Shower and Bath Gel with Vitamin E

For my everyday body wash, I keep things relatively simple with Neutrogena Rainbath Refreshing Shower and Bath Gel.

I purchase the larger size, which I’ve found for around $42, depending on the retailer.

I originally picked mine up at Costco, but you can also find Rainbath products through retailers such as Amazon and CVS.

I love having a dependable body wash that works well with the rest of my routine.

SUGARED + BRONZED Exfoliating Scrub

I also exfoliate once or twice a week using the SUGARED + BRONZED Exfoliating Scrub.

I actually discovered this product through a friend who brought it along on a trip we took together.

The brand is known for its sugaring and spray tanning services, including locations in Los Angeles, but it also sells body care products online.

Funny enough, I don’t currently spray tan, even though my skin is pretty pale and I could probably use a little color. LOL.

But regardless of whether you’re into tanning, I’ve really enjoyed this scrub.

It leaves my skin feeling smooth and helps prepare it for my post-shower moisturizing routine.

I just make sure not to overdo the exfoliation, especially when my skin feels sensitive.

My Current Collagen Supplement

Another product I’ve been incorporating into my beauty routine is Sparkle Wellness Skin Boost Plus Collagen Powder.

Price: Approximately $39 | Available on Amazon

After trying several collagen supplements, this is my current favorite.

The formula includes VERISOL bioactive collagen peptides, buffered vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid.

I enjoy adding collagen to my routine, although it’s worth remembering that research on oral collagen supplements is still evolving and results vary from person to person.

And of course, staying adequately hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and protecting your skin from the sun remain important at every age.

Final Thoughts: Beautiful Skin After 40 Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

So that’s my current body care routine!

A little more elaborate than it used to be? Absolutely.

A little more expensive? Unfortunately, yes. LOL.

But I’ve genuinely enjoyed experimenting with different body oils and discovering what works best for my skin.

If I had to summarize my favorites:

• Best everyday oil: Naturium The Glow Getter Body Oil
• Best budget-friendly option: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Body Oil
• Best for going out: GODA Silk Body Oil
• Best for nighttime pampering: Beauty From Bees Body Serum

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be about chasing perfection or trying to look 25 forever.

It’s about feeling comfortable, confident, and beautiful in the skin you’re in.

And whether you’re 43 like me or well beyond, I think that’s something worth investing in—within whatever budget works for you.

Have you tried any of these oils? Is there a body oil or serum you absolutely swear by?

I’d love to hear your recommendations!

If you have questions, comments, or a product you’d like me to review, feel free to email me at audrey@labeautyguide.com.

Until next time, stay glowing!

LA Beauty Guide