All year long— but particularly in the winter—hydration is key, and a good body lotion is a seasonal necessity. But if you’re in the market for more than moisture, consider adding one of the best tightening body lotions to your post-shower, pre-bedtime, or anytime routine. According to Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York and New Jersey, tightening lotions work instantly to hydrate the skin and provide a temporary plumping effect. The real magic, however, comes with consistent use.
Vogue’s Favorite Tightening Body Lotions
Darren M. Smith, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York City, notes that tightening creams contain active ingredients—such as peptides and retinol—that provide visible benefits over time. “These actives target uneven texture and inflammation while supporting collagen and elasticity for a more balanced, smoother appearance,” he says.
The key to finding the best body-tightening lotion for you? Look for an expert-approved formula that contains the right targeted ingredients and texture for your skin, while accommodating any sensitivities to scent or specific actives. Ahead, find a—ahem—tightly curated list of lotions experts recommend for keeping the skin healthy, smooth, and firm all winter long and beyond.
In This Story:
Best Peptide Treatment: Strivectin Crepe Control Tightening Body Cream
- Why We Love It: “Crepey skin is often the result of collagen loss and chronic dehydration,” says Dr. Smith. “This formula addresses both with peptides, which improve elasticity, and murumuru seed butter for deep hydration.” Dr. Garshick adds that the formula incorporates NIA-114, a proprietary form of niacin, to support the skin barrier. With its blend of emollients and hydrating ingredients, “this helps leave the skin softer, smoother, and less crepey,” she says. “It also improves overall skin tone with turmeric root extract, and it doesn’t feel greasy.”
- Key Ingredients: Tripeptides, jojoba-seed extract, turmeric powder, murumuru-seed butter, fruit-derived seed oils
- Best For: Tightening, evening skin tone
- Size: 5 oz