The Minimalist: Top 5 Budget Moisturizing Lotions

Dry, rough skin is nothing to chafe at. I should know, having spent enormous amounts of time and money to combat the embarrassing but common condition. Nothing says ‘neglect’ like ashy appendages, and at all times of year, I give so-called moisturizing lotions a run for their money.

I have no patience for watery, wimpy formulas that are only going to provide short-lived relief or need constant reapplication. Neither do I go for overly thick, waxy formulas that are hard to apply and leave a greasy film on skin’s surface instead of absorbing in. I need a lotion that falls somewhere in the middle, an emollient product that actually does what it promises without breaking the bank!

While it’s not easy to quench thirsty skin, I’ve discovered a few lotions that are up for the challenge and perform beautifully!

If you, too, suffer with dehydrated dermis, here are my five budget lotion favorites that get the job done:

1. Alba Botanica Very Emollient Lotion $10.95

The perfect sensitive skin solution.

Alba Botanica is known for its all-natural products that are chock-full of quality ingredients. Pleasantly light, this lotion contains such goodies as jojoba oil, aloe vera, and chamomile extract. It is unscented, hypo-allergenic, 100% vegetarian, and contains NO artificial colors, phthylates or parabens. This is probably the best bet to soothe dry yet sensitive skin. 
  

2. Hugo Naturals All-Over Face and Body Lotion $9.95
My multipurpose pick!

A rich, lightly fragranced lotion that hydrates without artificial fragrances or colors, parabens, petroleum products or animal fats. It's effective on ashy knees, elbows, and hands, but gentle enough for the face.

3. Burt’s Bees Milk and Honey Lotion $7.99
Smells good enough to eat, and it's hydrating properties can't be beat.

As you might recall from previous reviews, I am a huge fan of Burt's Bees, and this product is no exception. I ran into the Milk and Honey lotion on a late-night Walmart excursion, and it was love at first swipe. The scent is heavenly, and it really delivered.
 

4. Everyday Shea Moisturizing Body Lotion $9.95
Long-lasting lotion that you can feel good about!

This is one of my 'holy grail' skin care products, because it never fails to deliver long-lasting results. The bottle is HUGE, offering a great value. What's more, this self-described "intensive moisturizer" is made with handcrafted, certified fair-trade shea butter, and 10% of proceeds go to benefit community empowerment projects in West Africa. LOVE it!
 

5. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks $9.99
A double-duty budget buy.

Wondering why this one is on my list? Give it a try, and you won't be wondering for long! While designed to treat stretch marks, I discovered that this total body lotion did an amazing job at keeping my skin soft and supple throughout the day, as well as keeping unsightly stretch marks at bay! Funny enough, it's absent of the signature cocoa butter scent, which I appreciate.

One of your loves not on the list? Write in and tell us your faves!