Body lotion is a moisturizer used to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly, itchy skin and minor skin irritations such as diaper rash and skin burns from radiation therapy. Emollients are substances that soften and moisturize the skin and decrease itching and flaking. Some products are used mostly to protect the skin against irritation from wetness. The ingredients in body lotion can vary, but common ones include:

Positive ingredients or materials:

• Emollients: Petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, and dimethicone are common emollients that soften and moisturize the skin.

• Humectants: Glycerin, lecithin, and propylene glycol are humectants that draw water into the outer layer of skin.

• Occlusives: Dimethicone, lanolin oil, and tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E) are occlusives that form a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss.

• Emulsifiers: Cetearyl alcohol, stearic acid, and acrylates/C 10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer are emulsifiers that help to mix oil and water-based ingredients.

• Preservatives: Optiphen Plus is a highly effective broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative with no formaldehyde donors and is the only paraben-free preservative on the market.

Negative ingredients or materials:

• Fragrance: Fragrance or "parfum" can contain hormone-disrupting phthalates.

• DMDM Hydantoin: This is a type of formaldehyde-releasing preservative used in personal care items, including body lotion. Its an irritant for eyes and skin.

• Parabens: Parabens are used as preservatives in many moisturizers and are linked to endocrine disruption.

• Retinyl Palmitate: This is a form of vitamin A that can increase the risk of skin cancer when exposed to sunlight.

• Triethanolamine: This is a highly alkaline substance used to balance the pH in various body lotions and cosmetics. Its considered moderately dangerous and should never be used long-term.

Its important to read labels and avoid lotions that contain harmful ingredients. Opting for natural or organic body lotions can be a safer choice.