There are three things we love about a good body oil. Firstly, they are really nourishing on the skin. Secondly, they are excellent to use after exercise for soothing tired muscles (and some are anti-inflammatory too). But the best thing about them is that they leave a lovely, sheeny glow on a bare leg or arm. That’s exactly what we need at this time of year isn’t it? Our favourites are:

Aromatherapy Associates De Stress Massage and Body Oil, 100ml, £41

This is the perfect one to use post exercise and is great for helping ease muscular aches and pains. It delivers anti-inflammatory benefits to tired muscles and the blend of arnica, lavender and rosemary works to improve circulation. The perfect post exercise pick up – or if you’re just feeling achy and stressed.

Neom Great Day Wild Mint and Mandarin Body Oil, £100 ml, £32

This brand new oil smells truly wonderful and is seriously rehydrating. Legs and arms are left silky but not greasy. Great to use in the morning as the spearmint, mandarin and lemon is an excellent energy booster after the shower or bath.

The Organic Pharmacy Rose and Jasmine Body Oil, 100 ml, £34.96

Has a beautiful, elegant fragrance which is seriously uplifting and also works brilliantly as a massage oil especially if you need a mood boost or a de-stressing session. Addictive.

This Works Skin Deep Dry Leg Oil, 120 ml, £39.50

Genuinely transforms dry, dull skin into glossy radiance (and can be used all over not just on legs). It’s also brilliant on dry elbows and knees to leave everything looking a bit more glowing.

Elemis Frangipani Monoi Body Oil, 100ml, £32

Celebrating ten years, this lighter than light oil blend is a great multi-tasker for body, hair and nails. It also works well as a weekly hair treatment (massage a small amount into the hair, cover with a warm towel and shampoo after fifteen minutes). We also love it just applied to damp skin straight out of the bath.

Diptyque Satin Oil for Body and Hair, 100ml, £36

So obviously this one gets the award for the most coveted glass bottle. Not surprisingly, the fragrance is gorgeous (a little bit of jasmine with a little bit of ylang ylang) and is the perfect lightweight blend of oils. It’s lovely to apply on bare arms and legs before an evening out.

Nars Monoi Body Glow II, 100 ml, £44

Gives a lovely luminous glow to skin whether you massage it straight on or add to your bath. Great to use on tanned skin to prolong your tan too.

words by Lucia Ferrari

image: Zimmerman Swimwear 

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING THIS WEEK…GET YOUNGER LOOKING SKIN WITH THESE ANTI-AGING  SUPERFOODS!