Bio‑Oil Dry Skin Gel

An intensive oil-based formula combining Mineral Oil, Urea, and Shea Butter to deeply occlude dry skin, enhanced with Niacinamide and Retinyl Palmitate for texture improvement.

Performance Rating: 4.5

This formula is a powerhouse for dry to very dry skin, likely structured as a gel-to-oil based on the high concentration of Mineral Oil and esters coupled with Glycerin and water. It features an impressive array of Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs) including Urea, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, and Sodium Hyaluronate, which are excellent for binding water to the skin. The addition of Shea Butter and Lanolin provides superior occlusion to prevent moisture loss. Furthermore, the inclusion of Niacinamide, Retinyl Palmitate, and Vitamin E offers skin-restoring and antioxidant benefits. The only performance drawback is the potential for a heavy or greasy residue due to the abundance of mineral oil and Isopropyl Myristate.

Safety Rating: 3.5

While the base ingredients (Mineral Oil, Glycerin) are biologically inert and safe, the formula contains several potential triggers for sensitive skin. It includes Fragrance and a cocktail of essential oils (Lavender, Rosemary, Chamomile) which introduce volatile allergens such as Limonene, Linalool, Farnesol, and Geraniol. Lanolin is an excellent emollient but is a known allergen for a small percentage of the population. Additionally, Isopropyl Palmitate and Isopropyl Myristate are highly comedogenic, meaning this product could cause body acne (bacne) on prone individuals. It also contains Red 33, a synthetic dye.

Final Rating: 4.2

This is an exceptionally effective formulation for its specific target: rough, dry, and dehydrated body skin. The combination of Urea (exfoliating/hydrating) with heavy occlusives creates a barrier that heals dry skin rapidly. However, the rating is capped because it is not universally safe; the heavy reliance on fragrance components, essential oils, and comedogenic esters makes it unsuitable for those with sensitive skin, fragrance allergies, or body acne concerns.

Verdict

This formulation represents a hybrid approach to body care, functioning primarily as an intensive occlusive shield rather than a lightweight water-based lotion. The base is heavily reliant on Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) and Isopropyl Palmitate, ingredients known for their exceptional ability to prevent transepidermal water loss. This makes the product a heavy-hitter for compromised barriers, as it physically seals moisture into the skin. To counter the greasiness often associated with pure oils, the inclusion of Shea Butter and Lanolin adds a rich, nutritive feel, though the presence of Lanolin renders this unsuitable for vegans. The texture is likely that of a gel-to-oil or a heavy, dry-oil moisturizer. Beyond simple hydration, the formula includes a sophisticated blend of humectants. Urea, Sodium Lactate, and Sodium Hyaluronate work to draw moisture deep into the stratum corneum. The addition of Gluconolactone (a PHA) and Lactic Acid provides mild chemical exfoliation, which is particularly beneficial for smoothing rough textures or conditions like keratosis pilaris. The active ingredient profile is surprisingly robust for a body moisturizer. The inclusion of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Retinyl Palmitate (a Vitamin A derivative) suggests this product is targeted at improving skin tone, elasticity, and the appearance of scars or stretch marks. Supporting these are soothing agents like Bisabolol and Calendula Extract, which attempt to mitigate inflammation. However, user caution is advised regarding the sensory profile. The formula contains a significant cocktail of essential oils (Lavender, Rosemary, Chamomile) and added fragrance components like Limonene, Linalool, and Camphor. While this provides a distinctive herbal scent, it poses a high risk of contact dermatitis for those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, Isopropyl Palmitate and Isopropyl Myristate are highly comedogenic. Those prone to body acne—specifically on the chest or back—should strictly avoid this product, as it creates a perfect environment for pore clogging. Ultimately, this is a specialized treatment for severe dryness rather than a daily maintenance lotion for normal skin.

Who Is This Product For?

Who Should Avoid This Product?

Ingredient Evaluation

📁 Emollients & Occlusives / 润肤剂与封闭剂

🧪 Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) / 矿物油 (液体石蜡)

Purpose: Occlusive agent to lock in moisture

Concerns: Petroleum-derived; generally non-comedogenic but some prefer plant-based oils

Notes: Highly effective at preventing transepidermal water loss.

🧪 Isopropyl Palmitate / 棕榈酸异丙酯

Purpose: Emollient, thickener

Concerns: Highly comedogenic (can clog pores)

Notes: Provides a silky feel.

🧪 Triisononanoin / 三异壬酸甘油酯

Purpose: Skin conditioning agent

Concerns: Generally safe

Notes: Improves texture and spreadability.

🧪 Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate / 鲸蜡硬脂酸乙基己酯

Purpose: Emollient

Concerns: None

Notes: Provides a velvety finish; water-repellent properties.

🧪 Isopropyl Myristate / 肉豆蔻酸异丙酯

Purpose: Emollient, texture enhancer

Concerns: Highly comedogenic

Notes: Helps other ingredients penetrate the skin.

🧪 Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride / 辛酸/癸酸甘油三酯

Purpose: Emollient, replenishing

Concerns: None

Notes: Derived from coconut oil and glycerin; excellent stability.

🧪 Isostearyl Isostearate / 异硬脂酸异硬脂酯

Purpose: Emollient

Concerns: None

Notes: Provides rich conditioning.

🧪 Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter / 牛油果树果脂 (乳木果油)

Purpose: Rich emollient, moisturizer

Concerns: Heavy texture for oily skin

Notes: Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids.

🧪 Lanolin / 羊毛脂

Purpose: Occlusive moisturizer

Concerns: Common allergen for some people; animal-derived

Notes: Very closely resembles human skin lipids.

🧪 Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil / 向日葵籽油

Purpose: Emollient, barrier repair

Concerns: None

Notes: Rich in linoleic acid.

🧪 Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil / 野大豆油

Purpose: Emollient, antioxidant

Concerns: None

Notes: Contains amino acids and vitamins.

📁 Humectants & Hydrators / 保湿剂与补水成分

🧪 Glycerin / 甘油

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Attracts moisture to the skin.

🧪 Sodium Lactate / 乳酸钠

Purpose: Humectant, pH adjuster

Concerns: None

Notes: Part of the skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF).

🧪 Urea / 尿素

Purpose: Humectant, keratolytic

Concerns: Can be irritating on broken skin at high concentrations

Notes: Excellent for softening rough, dry skin.

🧪 Sodium PCA / PCA 钠

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: High water-binding capacity; part of NMF.

🧪 Sodium Hyaluronate / 透明质酸钠

Purpose: Humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Salt form of Hyaluronic Acid; holds significant water.

🧪 Octyldodecyl PCA / 辛基十二醇 PCA 酯

Purpose: Skin conditioning, humectant derivative

Concerns: None

Notes: Lipophilic derivative of PCA.

📁 Active Ingredients & Vitamins / 活性成分与维生素

🧪 Gluconolactone / 葡萄糖酸内酯

Purpose: Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA), exfoliant, humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Gentler than AHAs; antioxidant properties.

🧪 Lactic Acid / 乳酸

Purpose: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), exfoliant, humectant

Concerns: Sun sensitivity

Notes: Gently removes dead skin cells and hydrates.

🧪 Niacinamide / 烟酰胺

Purpose: Vitamin B3, barrier repair, brightening

Concerns: High concentrations can cause flushing in some

Notes: Versatile active for texture and tone.

🧪 Retinyl Palmitate / 视黄醇棕榈酸酯

Purpose: Vitamin A derivative, antioxidant

Concerns: Avoid during pregnancy (consult doctor); sun sensitivity

Notes: Least irritating retinoid; anti-aging benefits.

🧪 Tocopheryl Acetate / 生育酚乙酸酯

Purpose: Vitamin E, antioxidant

Concerns: None

Notes: Stable form of Vitamin E.

🧪 Tocopherol / 生育酚

Purpose: Vitamin E, antioxidant

Concerns: None

Notes: Pure Vitamin E.

🧪 Linoleic Acid / 亚油酸

Purpose: Essential Fatty Acid (Omega-6)

Concerns: None

Notes: Restorative; good for barrier health.

🧪 Linolenic Acid / 亚麻酸

Purpose: Essential Fatty Acid (Omega-3)

Concerns: None

Notes: Soothing and restorative.

🧪 Bisabolol / 红没药醇

Purpose: Soothing agent

Concerns: None

Notes: Derived from chamomile; reduces inflammation.

📁 Botanical Extracts & Essential Oils / 植物提取物与精油

🧪 Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil / 白花春黄菊花油

Purpose: Soothing, fragrance

Concerns: Potential allergen

Notes: Roman Chamomile.

🧪 Calendula Officinalis Extract / 金盏花提取物

Purpose: Soothing, anti-inflammatory

Concerns: Allergy to Asteraceae family

Notes: Great for irritated skin.

🧪 Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil / 迷迭香叶油

Purpose: Antioxidant, fragrance

Concerns: Sensitizing potentially

Notes: Invigorating scent.

🧪 Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil / 薰衣草油

Purpose: Soothing, fragrance

Concerns: Common allergen/sensitizer

Notes: Calming aroma.

📁 Texture Enhancers, Solvents & Emulsifiers / 质地改良剂、溶剂与乳化剂

🧪 Water/Aqua/Eau / 水

Purpose: Solvent

Concerns: None

Notes: Base for hydration.

🧪 C26-28 Alkyl Dimethicone / C26-28 烷基聚二甲基硅氧烷

Purpose: Emollient, texture enhancer

Concerns: None

Notes: Silicone wax; improves spreadability.

🧪 Sucrose Laurate / 月桂酸蔗糖酯

Purpose: Emulsifier, surfactant

Concerns: None

Notes: Gentle and sugar-based.

🧪 Sucrose Stearate / 硬脂酸蔗糖酯

Purpose: Emulsifier, skin conditioning

Concerns: None

Notes: Sugar-based emulsifier.

🧪 Butylene Glycol / 丁二醇

Purpose: Solvent, humectant

Concerns: None

Notes: Helps dissolve ingredients; enhances penetration.

🧪 Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer / 聚二甲基硅氧烷/乙烯基聚二甲基硅氧烷交联聚合物

Purpose: Texture enhancer

Concerns: None

Notes: Provides a silky, matte feel.

🧪 Silica / 硅石

Purpose: Absorbent, thickener

Concerns: None

Notes: Improves texture and matte finish.

📁 Fragrance & Allergens / 香精与致敏原

🧪 Fragrance (Parfum) / 香精

Purpose: Scent

Concerns: High risk of irritation for sensitive skin

Notes: Blend of aromatic chemicals.

🧪 Limonene / 柠檬烯

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: EU 26 Allergen

Notes: Citrus scent component.

🧪 Linalool / 芳樟醇

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: EU 26 Allergen

Notes: Floral scent component.

🧪 Farnesol / 法尼醇

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: EU 26 Allergen

Notes: Floral scent component.

🧪 Beta-Caryophyllene / β-石竹烯

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: Potential sensitizer

Notes: Spicy, woody scent.

🧪 Camphor / 樟脑

Purpose: Fragrance, cooling agent

Concerns: Irritating to eyes/skin in high amounts

Notes: Cooling sensation.

🧪 Pinene / 蒎烯

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: Potential sensitizer

Notes: Pine scent.

🧪 Terpineol / 松油醇

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: Potential sensitizer

Notes: Lilac/pine scent.

🧪 Linalyl Acetate / 乙酸芳樟酯

Purpose: Fragrance ingredient

Concerns: Potential sensitizer

Notes: Bergamot/lavender scent.

📁 Colorants / 着色剂

🧪 Red 33 (CI 17200) / CI 17200 (红 33)

Purpose: Synthetic dye

Concerns: None specific usually

Notes: Adds pink/red color to the product.