Individuals with the most radiant skin use this specific product to achieve a summer glow.
(Image credit: Who What Wear UK)
Summer isn't officially here yet, but the UK has already experienced its first heatwave. This means I'll be storing away my heavier skincare products sooner than I expected. In their place, I'll be opting for lightweight formulas that feel neither sticky nor greasy on my skin. For my face, this transition is straightforward, as I can easily replace rich creams with water-based moisturizers. However, as someone with dry skin, it has been a challenge to find a lightweight yet equally hydrating alternative to my thicker body creams. Last summer, my fellow Who What Wear UK beauty editors recommended a product that is just as nourishing as body lotion but also imparts extra shine for that summer glow I adore. Enter shimmer body oil.
(Image credit: Who What Wear UK) Formulated with a blend of skin-loving ingredients and packed with a sparkle that rivals any highlighter, I assure you that most editors and beauty enthusiasts have a body shimmer oil on their vanities. Whether you have very dry skin like mine or simply want that extra radiance that suggests, “I just returned from a sun-kissed vacation,” a shimmer body oil will help retain moisture, leaving your skin looking and feeling smoother and softer. The best part? The beauty shelves are currently filled with options suitable for every skin type and budget. Whether you want an ultra-nourishing formula for dehydrated skin or a dry-touch version for oilier skin types, a luxury bottle for a treat, or a budget-friendly option that performs exceptionally well, we have compiled the best shimmer body oils to consider this summer.
The Best Body Shimmer Oils
Best Overall Shimmer Oil: Phlur Beach Skin Shimmering Body Oil, £45
Best Affordable Shimmer Oil: NYX Professional Makeup Fat Oil Body Oil, £15
Best Luxury Shimmer Oil: Maison Francis Kurkdjian Sparkling Body Oil, £185
Best SPF Shimmer Oil: Ultra Violette Disco Queen SPF 50 Body Oil, £38
Best for Dry Skin: Saltair Shimmering Body Oil, £28
Best for Oily Skin: L'Occitane Amande Shimmering Body Oil, £43
1. **Phlur Beach Skin Shimmering Body Oil**
BEST OVERALL SHIMMER OIL
Phlur
Beach Skin Shimmering Body Oil
Key Ingredients: Squalane, vitamin C, jojoba oil, meadowfoam seed oil, rosehip oil, paramela oil
Scented? Yes (Bergamot, salted tiare flower, fresh ocean mist, coconut milk, warm sandalwood, vanilla, musk)
Shade(s): 1 (light golden)
Phlur’s Beach Skin shimmer body oil has only been on the market for two months, yet I haven't met a beauty editor who hasn't completely fallen for this formula. The oil absorbs beautifully into the skin, imparting a healthy, subtle glow. As someone with dry, dehydrated skin and eczema, I appreciate the blend of squalane, vitamin C, and rosehip oil for all-day nourishment. Additionally, the scent—a creamy mix of coconut, vanilla, and musk—isn't overpowering and doesn’t irritate my often-sensitive skin.
Pros: Light, hydrating formula that provides a flattering sheen on the skin
Cons: Shimmer might be too subtle for those seeking more glow
2. **Ultra Violette Disco Queen SPF 50 Luminous Body Oil**
BEST SPF SHIMMER OIL
Ultra Violette
Disco Queen SPF 50 Luminous Body Oil
Key Ingredients: Coconut Oil, vitamin E, almond oil
Scented? Yes (sweet citrus, soft jasmine, coconut)
Shade(s): 1 (bronze)
In the summer, I prefer an SPF oil as my sunscreen when I want a hydrating formula that doesn’t leave a white cast. Ultra Violette’s Disco Queen SPF 50 Luminous body oil provides this along with a shimmery, high-shine finish, reminiscent of a summer escape. It has a non-greasy finish and doesn’t transfer onto clothing like other shimmer body oils, which is great in summer when I wear lighter-colored clothing. The stunning light bronze finish blends seamlessly with my deeper skin while also working for lighter skin tones, resulting in a subtle golden hue.
Pros: Offers high UV protection
Cons: Shimmer level may be too intense for those desiring a natural glow
3. **Maison Francis Kurkdjian Sparkling Body Oil in Oud Satin Mood**
BEST LUXURY SHIMMER OIL
Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Sparkling Body Oil in Oud Satin Mood
Key Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, macadamia seed oil, apricot kernel oil, virgin argan oil
Scented? Yes (Damascena rose oil, violet accord, agarwood, styrax oil, vanilla-amber accord, benzoin)
Individuals with the most radiant skin use this specific product to achieve a summer glow.
A bottled escape bathed in sunlight.
