The best body lotions for dry skin in Australia in 2026
Are you having trouble with skin that is dry, flaky, or rough? The dermatologist-recommended guide we have has the best moisturisers made just for dry and parched skin. From ceramide creams that are as good as those used in hospitals to rich natural solutions, find the best way to restore your skin’s moisture barrier and keep it hydrated in Australia’s tough environment.
Why You Should Take Care of Dry Skin
Your skin barrier requires help if your skin is dry. The severe temperature, little humidity, and strong sun in Australia can dry up skin, causing it to flake, feel tight, itch, and become irritated. A good moisturiser may fix your skin barrier, keep it hydrated for more than 24 hours, and make dry skin feel better and healthier.
1. Lovercare Goat Milk Body Lotion: Deeply Nourishing for Dry Skin
Nature’s way of fixing dry skin. This thick goat milk formula is full of natural proteins and vitamins A, C, and E that go deep into the skin to bring back moisture and fix dry skin. The recipe is soothing and has a regulated pH, making it great for dry, sensitive skin that needs a lot of care.
Important Features:
Full of natural proteins and vitamins A, C, and E for better deep nourishment
Gets deep into the skin to fix skin that is very dry
Great for skin that is very dry and sensitive without causing irritation
Lots of moisture without a greasy, thick residue
Best For:
- Skin that is dry to moderately dry and dehydrated
- Skin that is sensitive and needs gentle, intensive care
- People who want natural formulae with a lot of vitamins
- Daily deep wetness for the weather in Australia
- Anyone who wants skin that looks soft and healthy
✅ Good things
- Natural goat milk formula full with vitamins
- Deep nourishment without becoming greasy
- Kind to skin that is dry and sensitive
- Texture that absorbs quickly and doesn’t stick
- Great quality at the price
- Proteins from nature fix dry skin
- Good for heavy use every day
❌ No
- Could smell a little like goat milk from nature
- You might need to apply it again in really dry places
- Available mostly on the internet (Amazon, eBay, Kogan)
Our best pick for dry skin is Lovercare Goat Milk Body Lotion because its natural, vitamin-rich recipe deeply nourishes the skin. The pure goat milk proteins and vitamins provide your skin a lot of moisture, which is great for Australia’s severe weather, but they are also gentle enough for delicate skin. This is the best choice for people with dry skin because it offers great natural care at a low price.
2. CeraVe Moisturising Cream: Ceramides for Deep Barrier Repair
The best thing for dry skin. This thick cream was made by dermatologists and has three important ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It deeply hydrates the skin for 24 hours and repairs its protective barrier. MVE technology makes sure that moisture is released all day long.
Main Features:
Ceramides 1, 3, and 6-II help the skin’s natural barrier come back and stay strong
The controlled-release mechanism keeps you hydrated for 24 hours straight
Draws in and keeps moisture deep inside the skin
Even though it deeply hydrates, the rich texture won’t clog pores
Best For:
- Skin that is dry to somewhat dehydrated
- Function of the cutaneous barrier is compromised
- Skin that is delicate and prone to eczema
- Hydration all year round
- Locking in moisture after a shower
✅ Good things
- Formula made by a dermatologist
- Barrier mending that has been proven in the lab
- Real 24-hour hydration
- No scent and soft
- The big tub lasts for months
- Good for both face and body
- Great quality at the price
❌ No
- It takes time for rich texture to soak in
- Less hygienic tub packaging
- Could seem weighty when it’s humid in the summer
- Costs more than drugstore brands
CeraVe Moisturising Cream is a clinical powerhouse for dry skin since it works well and is easy to get. The recipe with a lot of ceramides really fixes damage to the skin barrier and gives it deep, long-lasting moisture. Thousands of Australians trust it to turn dry, unpleasant skin into smooth, healthy skin.
2. Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion – Intensive Moisture for Extremely Dry Skin
Dermatologist-recommended formula with ceramides and natural moisturizing factors provides intensive repair for extremely dry, flaky skin. Clinically proven to provide 48-hour moisture with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture perfect for daily use.
Key Features:
Repairs and strengthens compromised skin barrier
Urea and sodium PCA enhance moisture retention
Clinically proven extended hydration even in dry conditions
Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
Best For:
- Extremely dry, flaky skin
- Those who dislike heavy creams
- Daily morning application before dressing
- Rough patches on elbows, knees, heels
- Winter dryness and harsh climates
✅ Pros
- Fast absorption despite rich hydration
- Clinically proven 48-hour moisture
- Excellent for rough, flaky skin
- Pump bottle hygienic and convenient
- No greasy residue
- Great value for size
- Works on face and body
❌ Cons
- Not as rich as cream formulas
- May need reapplication for severely dry skin
- Slight medicinal scent (though fragrance-free)
Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion strikes the perfect balance between intensive hydration and lightweight texture. Ideal if you have very dry skin but can’t stand heavy, greasy creams. The ceramide and NMF formula genuinely repairs dryness while absorbing fast enough for daily rushed mornings. A fantastic choice for Australian conditions.
3. QV Intensive Body Moisturiser – Concentrated Hydration Cream
Australia’s most trusted skincare brand delivers concentrated hydration for very dry, sensitive skin. The rich, protective formula with glycerin and squalane creates a long-lasting moisture barrier while being gentle enough for eczema-prone and irritated skin.
Key Features:
Ultra-rich texture provides intensive hydration for severely dry areas
Powerful humectant draws moisture into skin and prevents water loss
Mimics skin’s natural oils for deep nourishment and protection
Suitable for sensitive, eczema-prone, and highly reactive skin
Best For:
- Very dry, sensitive Australian skin
- Eczema and dermatitis management
- Severely dry patches and rough skin
- Trusted Australian brand preference
- Winter skin protection
✅ Pros
- Trusted Australian dermatological brand
- Highly concentrated formula
- Excellent for eczema-prone skin
- No irritating ingredients
- Great value for money
- Available at all Australian pharmacies
- Long-lasting protection
❌ Cons
- Very thick – slow absorption
- Can feel greasy initially
- Best applied at night
- May be too rich for summer use
QV Intensive is a pharmacy staple for good reason. This concentrated Australian formula delivers serious hydration for very dry, sensitive skin at an accessible price point. While it’s quite thick and takes time to absorb, the long-lasting protection and gentle formula make it ideal for nighttime repair or harsh winter conditions. An excellent local choice.
4. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M – Triple Repair Moisturizing Balm
Premium French pharmacy formula with Shea Butter, Niacinamide, and Aqua Posae Filiformis provides clinical-strength relief for very dry, eczema-prone skin. The rich balm texture immediately soothes itching and irritation while repairing the skin barrier for up to 48 hours.
Key Features:
20% Shea Butter plus ceramides restore severely damaged barriers
4% concentration reduces inflammation and redness immediately
Aqua Posae Filiformis balances skin microbiome to prevent flare-ups
Renowned La Roche-Posay water calms reactive, sensitive skin
Best For:
- Severe eczema and atopic dermatitis
- Extremely dry, itchy, irritated skin
- Compromised skin barrier repair
- Chronic dryness and sensitivity
- Baby and children’s eczema (3 months+)
- Those willing to invest in premium care
✅ Pros
- Clinical-strength eczema relief
- Immediately soothes itching
- True 48-hour protection
- Microbiome support prevents flares
- Safe for babies and children
- Fragrance and paraben-free
- Recommended by dermatologists worldwide
❌ Cons
- Premium price point
- Very rich balm texture
- Takes time to fully absorb
- May be too heavy for normal-dry skin
- Expensive for full-body use
La Roche-Posay Lipikar is the premium solution for severe eczema and extremely dry skin. While expensive, the clinical efficacy is unmatched—it genuinely repairs damaged barriers, soothes intense itching, and prevents flare-ups. If you suffer from chronic eczema or severe dryness, this is worth the investment. Many dermatologists consider it the gold standard.
5. Cetaphil Pro Eczema Soothing Moisturizer – Intensive Barrier Repair
Dermatologist-developed therapeutic formula with colloidal oatmeal and ceramides soothes and protects very dry, eczema-prone skin. Clinically proven to relieve itch and irritation while strengthening the skin barrier for long-term improvement.
Key Features:
FDA-approved skin protectant relieves itch and inflammation
Restores protective barrier in eczema-compromised skin
Supports natural skin barrier protein production
Safe for daily, long-term use without medication concerns
Best For:
- Eczema and psoriasis management
- Very dry, itchy, irritated skin
- Those avoiding steroid creams
- Sensitive skin prone to reactions
- Daily therapeutic moisturization
✅ Pros
- Clinically proven eczema relief
- Gentle, therapeutic formula
- Immediate itch reduction
- Fragrance and paraben-free
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Good mid-range value
- Trusted dermatology brand
❌ Cons
- Thick texture needs patience
- Can feel slightly sticky
- Not as cosmetically elegant as some
- May need frequent reapplication
Cetaphil Pro Eczema delivers therapeutic-grade relief at a mid-range price. The colloidal oatmeal and ceramide formula genuinely calms eczema flares and repairs barrier damage without steroids. While the texture isn’t the most elegant, the clinical results speak for themselves. An excellent choice for chronic eczema sufferers seeking affordable, effective care.
6. Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Repair Cream – Triple Oat Complex
Harness the power of nature with Aveeno’s Triple Oat Complex combining oat flour, oat extract, and oat oil. This rich, prebiotic formula soothes very dry, irritated skin while restoring moisture balance and supporting the skin’s natural microbiome.
Key Features:
Oat flour, extract, and oil work together for maximum soothing and repair
Nourishes skin’s natural microbiome for healthier, more resilient skin
Intensive formula provides deep, long-lasting moisture
Suitable for sensitive, eczema-prone skin of all ages
Best For:
- Very dry, sensitive skin
- Those preferring natural ingredients
- Eczema-prone skin needing gentle care
- Itchy, irritated dry skin
- Families seeking safe, effective moisturizer
✅ Pros
- Natural oat-based formula
- Immediately calms irritation
- Prebiotic skin support
- Excellent value for quality
- Fragrance and paraben-free
- Widely available in Australia
- Gentle enough for all ages
❌ Cons
- Rich texture may be heavy for some
- Takes time to fully absorb
- May need reapplication in extreme dryness
- Tub packaging less portable
Aveeno Skin Relief offers natural, gentle relief for very dry, sensitive skin at an affordable price. The Triple Oat Complex genuinely soothes irritation and repairs dryness, making it ideal for those who prefer natural ingredients or have reactive skin. While quite rich, the proven efficacy and family-friendly formulation make it a solid choice.
7. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Body Moisturiser – Deep Moisture for Very Dry Skin
Legendary concentrated formula developed in harsh Norwegian winters provides deep moisture that lasts. A little goes a long way with this ultra-rich cream that penetrates through layers of skin to deliver long-lasting hydration even in Australia’s driest conditions.
Key Features:
Small amount delivers intense moisture—economical and effective
Reaches below surface layers for lasting hydration
Draws and locks in water for continuous hydration
Trusted for decades in extreme climate conditions
Best For:
- Very dry, chapped skin
- Harsh climate conditions
- Hands, feet, elbows needing intensive care
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Those wanting long-lasting tubes
✅ Pros
- Extremely concentrated—lasts forever
- Excellent value for money
- Deep, lasting moisture
- Perfect for rough, cracked areas
- Fragrance-free
- Small tube is portable
- Proven efficacy over decades
❌ Cons
- Very thick—difficult to spread
- Can feel greasy
- Not ideal for full-body use
- Takes long time to absorb
- Basic, medicinal formula
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula is the no-nonsense, budget-friendly solution for very dry skin. While extremely thick and slow to absorb, the concentrated formula genuinely delivers deep, lasting moisture. Best used on problem areas like hands, feet, and elbows rather than full-body. Unbeatable value if you can handle the heavy texture.
8. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula – Intensive Relief Body Lotion
Rich cocoa butter and vitamin E formula provides deep nourishment for very dry, damaged skin. The luxurious, natural formula softens rough skin, improves elasticity, and delivers comforting moisture with a signature cocoa scent beloved for generations.
Key Features:
Rich emollient deeply softens and nourishes very dry, rough skin
Antioxidant protection helps repair and protect skin from damage
Shea butter and natural oils enhance moisture and skin softness
Warm, comforting cocoa aroma (not suitable for scent-sensitive)
Best For:
- Very dry skin needing rich nourishment
- Stretch mark prevention during pregnancy
- Those who love natural ingredients
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- People who enjoy scented products
✅ Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Rich, natural formula
- Deeply nourishing cocoa butter
- Pleasant cocoa scent (for most)
- Softens very dry, rough skin
- Large pump bottle convenient
- Trusted heritage brand
❌ Cons
- Strong scent not for everyone
- Can feel heavy and greasy
- Contains fragrance (not for sensitive)
- May clog pores on some skin types
- Takes time to fully absorb
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter is an affordable classic for very dry skin, especially if you love natural butters and enjoy the signature cocoa scent. While not ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin due to fragrance and comedogenic ingredients, it delivers rich nourishment at an unbeatable price. Perfect for those seeking intensive moisture on a budget who aren’t scent-sensitive.
Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Moisturiser for Dry Skin
Dry skin requires specialized care. Here’s everything you need to know to select the perfect moisturiser for your specific needs.
Goat Milk (Lovercare): A natural moisturiser that is full of proteins, vitamins A, C, and E, and lactic acid. The soothing, pH-balanced solution calms irritation, and the creamy texture deeply nourishes and repairs dry skin. The fatty acids in goat milk are similar to those in human skin, which helps it absorb better and stay hydrated for a long time without becoming greasy.
Ceramides (CeraVe, Eucerin, Cetaphil): The most important thing to look for in dry skin products; they are important for fixing a broken skin barrier. Natural fats that keep moisture in and defend against harm from the environment.
Hyaluronic Acid (CeraVe, Neutrogena): can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Pulls moisture from the air into the skin and retains it there, making skin seem full and hydrated.
Glycerin (QV, Neutrogena, Most Formulas): A strong humectant that pulls water to the skin. High concentrations (5% or more) are needed to relieve dry skin.
La Roche-Posay & Palmer’s Shea Butter: is a thick, natural emollient that profoundly nourishes and soothes dry, rough skin. Great for keeping things out.
Niacinamide (La Roche-Posay): is a kind of vitamin B3 that decreases inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps the skin hold on to moisture. Great for skin that is prone to eczema.
Colloidal Oatmeal (Aveeno, Cetaphil): An FDA-approved skin protectant that calms itching, redness, and irritation. A natural way to reduce inflammation in sensitive, dry skin.
Squalane (QV): acts like the oils in your skin and absorbed deeply without making your skin greasy. Lightweight but very good in moisturising dry skin.
Dry Skin Signs: Persistent tightness, visible flaking, rough texture, occasional cracking (especially on hands/heels), itchiness, skin that feels “rough,” rapid moisture loss after showering.
Causes in Australia: Low humidity (especially inland), harsh sun exposure damaging skin barrier, hot showers depleting natural oils, air conditioning and heating, aging reducing natural moisture production, underlying conditions like eczema.
Why Regular Lotions Don’t Work: Dry skin has a compromised barrier that can’t retain moisture well. Light lotions evaporate quickly. You need formulas with barrier-repairing ingredients (ceramides), not just surface hydration.
Dry + Sensitive/Eczema: La Roche-Posay Lipikar, Cetaphil Pro Eczema, Aveeno Skin Relief – Fragrance-free, gentle, clinically proven for reactive skin.
Dry + Rough/Flaky: CeraVe Cream, Eucerin Advanced Repair, QV Intensive – Ceramide-rich formulas that smooth texture while hydrating.
Dry + Itchy: Aveeno Triple Oat, Cetaphil Pro, La Roche-Posay – Soothing ingredients like oatmeal and niacinamide calm irritation.
Extremely Dry/Cracked: Neutrogena Norwegian Formula, QV Intensive, CeraVe Cream – Maximum concentration formulas for severe cases.
Dry + Aging: CeraVe, Eucerin, La Roche-Posay – Ceramides and barrier support help mature skin retain moisture better.
Budget ($10-17): Palmer’s Cocoa Butter, Neutrogena Norwegian Formula – Excellent intensive moisture for very dry skin at affordable prices. Best for targeted use rather than full-body.
Mid-Range ($18-30): QV Intensive, Eucerin Advanced Repair, Aveeno Skin Relief, Cetaphil Pro – Best value category with clinical-grade formulas at accessible prices. Recommended for most people.
Premium ($30-50): CeraVe Cream, La Roche-Posay Lipikar – Worth the investment for severe eczema, chronic dryness, or when cheaper options haven’t worked. Superior barrier repair technology.
Inland/Dry Regions (Low Humidity): CeraVe, QV Intensive, La Roche-Posay – Maximum barrier protection essential. Apply 2x daily minimum. Consider humidifiers indoors.
Coastal Areas (Moderate): Eucerin, Aveeno, Cetaphil Pro – Balanced formulas work well. Still need rich creams, not light lotions.
Winter (All Regions): Upgrade to richest formulas available. QV Intensive, Neutrogena Norwegian for severe cases. Layer products if needed.
Summer Heat: Very dry skin still needs intensive care even in heat. Choose fast-absorbing options like Eucerin Advanced Repair. Apply immediately after cool showers.
Cream (CeraVe, QV, La Roche-Posay): Thick, rich texture ideal for very dry skin. Takes 5-10 minutes to absorb but provides superior, long-lasting moisture. Best for night use or when you have time.
Lotion (Eucerin Advanced Repair): Lighter than creams but still intensive for dry skin. Faster absorption (2-5 minutes) makes it suitable for morning use. Ceramide-enriched lotions work well for very dry skin.
Balm (La Roche-Posay Lipikar): Richest texture for severe dryness/eczema. Slow absorption but maximum protection. Use on extremely dry areas or before bed.
Concentrated (Neutrogena Norwegian): Ultra-thick, use sparingly on problem areas. Not for full-body but excellent for hands, feet, elbows.
Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis: La Roche-Posay Lipikar (best), Cetaphil Pro Eczema, Aveeno Triple Oat – Clinically proven formulas that reduce flares and soothe inflammation. Use 2-3x daily during flares.
Psoriasis: CeraVe Cream, Eucerin Advanced Repair – Ceramides help with scale and barrier function. Use alongside prescribed treatments.
Diabetes-Related Dryness: CeraVe, Eucerin – Barrier repair crucial as diabetic skin is more vulnerable. Pay special attention to feet.
Thyroid-Related Dryness: Any ceramide-rich formula (CeraVe, Eucerin, Cetaphil) – Focus on consistent barrier support as thyroid issues affect skin’s moisture production.
Aging/Mature Dry Skin: CeraVe, La Roche-Posay – Ceramides become more important as natural production decreases with age.
Best Timing: Apply within 3 minutes of showering/bathing while skin is still damp. This traps water in skin for maximum hydration. For very dry skin, apply again before bed.
Shower Temperature: Use lukewarm (not hot) water. Hot showers strip natural oils worsening dryness. Keep showers under 10 minutes.
Pat, Don’t Rub: After shower, pat skin semi-dry leaving some moisture. Rubbing with towel can irritate very dry skin.
Amount Needed: Very dry skin needs more than you think. Use enough to coat skin thoroughly—don’t skimp. A 500ml bottle should last 2-4 weeks for full-body use.
Problem Areas: Apply extra to elbows, knees, heels, hands—areas that get driest. Consider keeping separate intensive cream for these spots.
Layering for Severe Cases: For extremely dry skin, layer products: hyaluronic acid serum first, then rich cream. Seal with thin layer of petroleum jelly on worst areas at night.
Consistency is Key: Very dry skin needs daily care even when it looks better. Missing days can cause relapse. Make it a non-negotiable routine.
Gentle Cleansers: Switch to creamy, soap-free cleansers (Cetaphil, QV). Harsh soaps destroy skin barrier. Avoid antibacterial unless necessary.
Humidifiers: Use in bedroom during winter/dry months. Aim for 40-50% humidity. Particularly important in air-conditioned homes.
Clothing: Choose soft, breathable fabrics (cotton). Avoid wool and synthetic materials directly on skin—they can irritate very dry skin.
Sun Protection: UV damage worsens dryness and barrier damage. Use SPF 30+ daily even with moisturizer. Some moisturizers have SPF built-in.
Hydration: Drink 2-3 liters water daily. While it won’t cure dry skin alone, dehydration makes it worse.
Diet: Omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseed) support skin health from within. Consider supplements if diet is lacking.
Persistent Severe Dryness: If intensive moisturizers don’t improve dryness after 4-6 weeks of consistent use, see a doctor. May need prescription treatments.
Signs of Infection: Cracked skin that oozes, bleeds, or shows yellow crusting requires medical attention. Broken skin barrier can allow bacterial infections.
Unbearable Itching: Severe itching affecting sleep or daily life needs professional evaluation. May require prescription anti-itch medications.
Spreading Rash: Eczema or dermatitis that’s spreading or not responding to OTC eczema creams needs dermatologist care.
Sudden Onset: If very dry skin appears suddenly without obvious cause, could indicate underlying health issue (thyroid, diabetes, etc.).
Amazon Australia: Often best prices with Subscribe & Save (5-15% off). Prime fast delivery. Easy to compare prices and find bulk options.
Chemist Warehouse: Regular sales and competitive pricing. Good for comparing products in person. Staff can provide advice.
Priceline: Frequent 40-50% off sales on skincare. Join Priceline Club for extra discounts. Good range of brands.
Woolworths/Coles: Convenient but limited range. Watch for specials. Good for budget brands like QV, Palmer’s.
Money-Saving Tips: Buy largest sizes available (better value per ml). Stock up during sales (these products have long shelf life). Subscribe & Save on Amazon for regular deliveries at discount. Join pharmacy loyalty programs. Compare unit prices not just package prices.
Alcohol (Denatured/SD Alcohol): Extremely drying—avoid completely. Can strip skin’s natural moisture. Check ingredient lists carefully.
Fragrance: Can irritate already-compromised very dry skin. Choose fragrance-free formulas, especially if sensitive or eczema-prone.
Sulfates (SLS/SLES): In body washes—too harsh for very dry skin. Choose gentle, creamy cleansers instead.
Retinol/AHAs/BHAs in Body Products: These actives can over-exfoliate already-damaged dry skin. Save for targeted treatments only, not daily moisturizers.
Essential Oils: While “natural,” many can irritate very dry, sensitive skin. If present, they should be low on ingredient list.
Best Overall Choice: Lovercare Goat Milk Body Lotion. This natural, vitamin-rich lotion deeply nourishes parched skin. This is our top selection since it offers great natural care at a price that most people can afford.
Best Clinical Option: CeraVe Moisturising Cream. It has ceramides for barrier repair and has been shown to work better than anything else by dermatologists.
The best budget options: are Palmer’s Cocoa Butter or Neutrogena Norwegian Formula. They both provide great deep moisture at low pricing, although they do have some textural issues.
Best for Eczema: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M. This product is worth the extra cost for people with eczema because it provides clinical-strength treatment.
Best for Daily Use: Eucerin Advanced Repair. It has the perfect amount of deep hydration and a texture that works well every day.
Best Australian Brand: QV Intensive. This is a trusted local choice that works really well on sensitive, dry Australian skin.
Aveeno Skin Relief is the best natural option. It has a gentle, oat-based recipe for people who like natural ingredients.