Dry Oil Spray, Done Properly: A Five-Minute Body Routine for Softer Skin

Dry oil sprays have a reputation for being a “summer thing”. In reality, they’re a quick way to tackle year-round body dryness – especially in the UK, where central heating and wind can leave skin feeling tight. The trick is using them like skincare, not like perfume.

What a dry oil spray actually does

A dry oil is usually a blend of lightweight oils (and sometimes silicones) designed to spread easily and sink in fast. Used well, it softens rough patches, reduces that crepey “ashy” look on legs and arms, and makes skin feel comfortable without the sticky finish some body creams leave behind.

Choosing the right Skin So Soft style for your goal

Not every oil spray feels the same. If you want a classic, all-rounder finish, the Original style is the obvious starting point. If your skin is very dry (think: winter shins), look for a richer “nourishing” feel like Silky Moisture. If you’re after a cosmetic glow for legs and arms, the Enhance & Glow style is designed to add radiance as well as softness.

The practical point: buy for how you’ll use it. A big bottle is great at home, but a smaller size makes more sense for gym bags, travel, or keeping at your desk for emergency dry hands.

Step 1: Apply it on damp skin (this is the cheat code)

The best time to use a dry oil spray is straight after the shower, when your skin is still slightly damp. Water on the skin helps the oil spread further and locks in hydration. Don’t towel-dry completely – pat off the drips, then spray and massage in. You’ll use less product and get a more even finish.

Step 2: Treat it like targeted skincare

If your whole body isn’t dry, don’t oil your whole body. Focus on the bits that suffer: shins, elbows, knees, and the backs of arms. On rough heels and feet, layer it under a richer foot cream at night for a simple “seal and soften” combo.

If you’re seriously dry: layer it, don’t drown

If your skin is cracked, itchy, or flaky, a dry oil on its own might not be enough. Layer instead: apply a light body lotion first, then mist oil over the top to seal it in. You get hydration from the lotion and comfort from the oil, without smothering everything in a heavy cream.

If you’re prone to reactions, patch test on the inner arm for a couple of days before you go all-in. It’s better to find out on a small area than on your entire legs.

Step 3: Use it to upgrade shaving (and reduce irritation)

Dry oil works brilliantly as a pre-shave step. Smooth a small amount over damp legs, then shave with a sharp razor. The slip reduces tugging and can help with that angry post-shave tightness. Finish with a quick mist after you rinse off to calm things down.

Step 4: Make it work in real life (clothes, time, and safety)

If you hate the feeling of body products sticking to clothes, a dry oil is a smart compromise. Give it 60 seconds to settle before you get dressed. If you’re in a rush, apply only to the driest areas and leave the rest for later.

• Go easy near the soles of your feet – oil plus tiles is a comedy sketch waiting to happen.
• If you’re using it on holiday, keep it away from direct sun while it’s wet on skin to avoid patchy tanning.
• Store it upright and away from radiators so the spray mechanism stays reliable.

Small uses that make a big difference

Once you’ve got the basics down, a dry oil becomes a bit of a multitasker. Run a tiny amount through dry ends of hair as a last-resort smoother. Massage into cuticles after hand-washing. Mist over collarbones and shoulders before an evening out for a healthy sheen that looks great in photos.

The simple routine to repeat

If you want a routine you’ll actually stick to, keep it simple: apply on damp skin after showering, focus on dry zones, and top up feet and elbows at night when needed. Consistency beats heavy application.

If you want to see the different options and bundle sizes available, head to the Skin So Soft shop and pick the format that suits how you’ll use it. The best product is the one you’ll reach for every day.