Daily Skin Therapy
Daily Skin Therapy
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, velvety body lotion crafted with intensively moisturizing Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E to heal, soften, and smooth rough dry skin. This non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and locks in up to 48 hours of deep hydration, leaving skin supple and beautifully soft from head to toe.
Deep Cocoa Butter Hydration
Real cocoa extract and cocoa seed butter work together to create an intensive moisture barrier that heals and softens even the roughest, driest skin areas.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Cocoa Butter Hydration
Real cocoa extract and cocoa seed butter work together to create an intensive moisture barrier that heals and softens even the roughest, driest skin areas.
48-Hour Moisture Lock
Advanced occlusive formula with petrolatum and dimethicone forms a protective barrier that seals in hydration for up to 48 hours of continuous moisture.
Vitamin E Antioxidant Protection
Natural tocopherol (Vitamin E) helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and skin imperfections while protecting against free radical damage.
Multi-Oil Nourishment
Enriched with coconut oil, palm oil, and sunflower seed oil to deliver essential fatty acids that restore and maintain the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Contains only gentle moisturizing ingredients safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains coconut oil, esters, petrolatum, and palm oil which can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Coconut oil (rated 4) and cocoa butter (rated 4) are present. For body use the risk is lower, but avoid on acne-prone facial skin.
Formulated without parabens or phthalates. Preserved with phenoxyethanol, sorbic acid, and benzoic acid instead.
Contains parfum (fragrance), Yellow 5 (CI 19140), and Orange 4 (CI 15510). Those with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin should patch test first.
Dermatologist recommended for dry to eczema-prone skin. The occlusive barrier helps restore compromised skin barriers.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTheobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed ButterProven
Natural cocoa butter is a rich emollient packed with polyphenol antioxidants including flavonoids and epicatechins. It deeply hydrates by forming a protective barrier that traps moisture in the skin, transforming rough, dry patches into soft, supple skin.
- Benefit: Rich in palmitic, stearic, and oleic fatty acids that closely mimic natural skin lipids
- Antioxidant: Polyphenols help fight free radical damage and support anti-aging
- Occlusive: Creates a long-lasting moisture barrier to prevent transepidermal water loss
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A powerful fat-soluble antioxidant that protects the skin's lipid barrier from free radical damage. Vitamin E helps improve the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and skin imperfections while supporting overall skin health and healing.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals caused by UV exposure and environmental stressors
- Barrier support: Strengthens the skin's natural lipid barrier for better moisture retention
- Synergy: Works best when combined with Vitamin C for enhanced UV protection
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) OilProven
A deeply moisturizing oil rich in lauric acid with natural antimicrobial properties. Coconut oil penetrates hair and skin better than many other oils and helps prevent protein loss, making it excellent for overall skin conditioning.
- Penetration: Research shows coconut oil penetrates skin and hair more effectively than mineral oil or sunflower oil
- Lauric acid: Has antimicrobial properties that may help protect against certain bacteria
- Emollient: Creates a smooth, soft skin feel and helps prevent moisture loss
Glycerin Mid-rangeProven
One of the most effective humectants available. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, keeping skin hydrated and plump. A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Humectant: Attracts and holds water in the skin for long-lasting hydration
- Barrier repair: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state
- Non-irritating: Comedogenic rating of 0. Safe for all skin types including sensitive
PetrolatumProven
The gold-standard occlusive agent in dermatology. Highly refined petroleum jelly creates an inert protective barrier on the skin surface, dramatically reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and allowing the skin's natural healing processes to work optimally.
- Occlusive: Reduces TEWL by up to 98%, the most effective occlusive known
- Inert: Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is highly refined and non-irritating (comedogenic rating 0–1)
- Healing: Widely recommended by dermatologists for eczema and severely dry skin
31 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Glyceryl Stearate, Petrolatum, Propylene Glycol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Tocopherol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, PEG-8 Stearate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Phenoxyethanol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Benzoic Acid, Stearalkonium Chloride, Butylene Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Acetate, Stearyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Myristyl Alcohol, Fragrance (Parfum), Lauryl Alcohol, Cellulose, Dimethyl Stearamine, Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Orange 4 (CI 15510), Benzyl Alcohol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply on slightly damp skin after bath or shower for best absorption. Can also be used as a hand lotion or foot lotion throughout the day. Reapply after sun, wind, or cold weather exposure.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Pat Dry
Shower or bathe as usual. Gently pat skin with a towel, leaving it slightly damp to help the lotion absorb better and lock in extra moisture.
Pump & Apply
Dispense 1–2 pumps of lotion into your palms. Massage gently into skin using upward circular motions, focusing on dry areas like elbows, knees, and heels.
Allow Absorption
Let the lotion absorb for 30–60 seconds before dressing. The non-greasy formula will leave a soft, satin finish without residue on clothing.
Reapply as Needed
For extremely dry areas, reapply throughout the day. Use after exposure to sun, wind, or cold weather for optimal skin protection and repair.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, rough, or cracked skin on your body
- You want an affordable daily body moisturizer that actually works
- You love the warm, comforting scent of cocoa butter
- You need a lotion for eczema-prone skin
- You want to improve the appearance of stretch marks or scars
- You prefer a pump bottle for easy, hygienic dispensing
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need a facial moisturizer (this is formulated for body use)
- You are very sensitive to fragrances or synthetic dyes
- You prefer a completely unscented lotion (try the Fragrance-Free version)
- You have very oily, acne-prone skin on your body
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis product was designed for dry skin. The cocoa butter, petrolatum, and coconut oil combination delivers intensive hydration that lasts up to 48 hours.
Provides great daily maintenance moisture without feeling heavy. Keeps normal skin soft and supple throughout the day.
Works well on drier body areas like arms and legs. May feel slightly heavy on naturally oily zones. Apply a thinner layer where needed.
Rich formula may feel too heavy for oily skin types. Consider a lighter lotion or use only on very dry patches like elbows and knees.
Dermatologist recommended and paraben-free, but does contain fragrance and dyes. Patch test first. Consider the Fragrance-Free variant for very reactive skin.
Specifically designed for eczema-prone skin. The occlusive barrier helps restore compromised skin barriers and lock in moisture where it's needed most.
Results timeline
2–3 MONTHSInstant Softness & Hydration
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and more supple after the first application. The rich cocoa butter formula begins conditioning on contact.
95% noticed immediate softnessReduced Dryness & Roughness
With daily use, chronically dry and rough patches begin to heal. Skin texture improves noticeably, especially on elbows, knees, and heels.
85% noticed reduced roughnessImproved Skin Tone & Appearance
Vitamin E works over time to help improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Skin looks healthier, more even-toned, and has a natural glow.
70% noticed improved skin toneLong-Term Skin Health
Continued use strengthens the skin's natural moisture barrier. Eczema flare-ups may become less frequent. Overall skin health and resilience improves significantly.
75% reported lasting improvementRatings by platform
50K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional hydration that lasts all day (up to 48 hours)
- Incredibly affordable for the quality and quantity
- Beloved warm cocoa butter scent that lasts for hours
- Non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
- Convenient pump bottle for hygienic, easy dispensing
- Trusted brand with 180+ years of heritage
- Paraben and phthalate free
- Dermatologist recommended for eczema-prone skin
Criticized
- Strong cocoa butter scent may be overpowering for some
- Contains fragrance and artificial dyes
- Not fungal acne safe due to coconut oil and esters
- Too heavy for oily skin types in warm weather
- Contains petrolatum and mineral oil (controversial for some)
- Pump mechanism can fail before bottle is finished
- Not suitable as a facial moisturizer
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar cocoa butter formula in a larger 20.3 oz bottle. Lighter texture, milder scent, and slightly thinner consistency. Contains parabens, which Palmer's does not.
Enriched with coconut oil and shea butter in addition to cocoa butter. Contains a deep hydration serum. Slightly lighter texture with a milder scoa scent. Good for those who find Palmer's too thick.
Blends shea and cocoa butter for dual conditioning. Noticeably lighter and thinner formula. Less intensive moisture than Palmer's but absorbs faster. Good for normal-to-dry skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required. Keep cap closed when not in use.
Pump bottle (13.5 oz). Pump can be removed to access remaining product at the bottom of the bottle.
No — 13.5 oz exceeds the TSA 3.4 oz carry-on limit. Consider the 1.7 oz travel size or transfer to a smaller container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Palmer's Daily Skin Therapy does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — all of which are ingredients typically advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula uses gentle moisturizing ingredients like cocoa butter, glycerin, and vitamin E that are considered safe for use during pregnancy. Palmer's is actually well-known for its pregnancy skincare line, including stretch mark products used by expectant mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including coconut oil, petrolatum, esters (PEG-8 stearate), palm oil, and sunflower seed oil. If you suffer from pityrosporum folliculitis or fungal acne, look for alternatives like CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion which has a simpler, fungal-acne-friendly formula.
Yes, as a body lotion this product can be layered with most active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, or AHA/BHA product first and let it absorb for a few minutes, then follow with Palmer's Daily Skin Therapy to seal in moisture. The occlusive ingredients in this lotion can actually help buffer potential irritation from actives. However, if using AHA or BHA on the body (like for keratosis pilaris), apply Palmer's on top to reduce dryness from exfoliation.
Palmer's Daily Skin Therapy is best suited for dry, very dry, and eczema-prone skin. It excels at healing rough, cracked skin and providing deep, long-lasting hydration. It also works well for normal skin types looking for daily maintenance moisture. However, those with oily body skin may find it too heavy, especially in warmer months. Combination skin types can use it selectively on drier areas. The formula is dermatologist recommended and suitable for all ages.
You will feel immediate softness and hydration after the very first application. Within 1–2 weeks of daily use, you should notice reduced dryness and roughness, especially on problem areas like elbows and knees. After 4–6 weeks, the vitamin E begins to visibly improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks. For long-term skin health improvements and a consistently strong moisture barrier, expect results in 2–3 months of regular use.
As a body lotion, apply Palmer's Daily Skin Therapy immediately after showering or bathing on slightly damp skin for maximum absorption. If using any treatment products on the body (like AHA for keratosis pilaris or retinol for body anti-aging), apply those first and let them absorb, then follow with Palmer's as your occlusive moisturizing step. In the morning, finish with sunscreen on exposed areas. You can also reapply throughout the day to dry areas as needed.
Palmer's Daily Skin Therapy has a moderate comedogenic rating of approximately 3/5 due to the presence of coconut oil (rated 4/5) and cocoa butter (rated 4/5). For body use, this is generally not a concern as body skin is less prone to clogged pores than facial skin. However, it is not recommended for use on the face, especially for those with oily or acne-prone facial skin. If you notice body acne, consider switching to a lighter, non-comedogenic body lotion.
Palmer's Daily Skin Therapy has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. The product is preserved with phenoxyethanol, sorbic acid, and benzoic acid to maintain freshness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pump bottle design helps minimize contamination compared to jar packaging. If the product changes color, scent, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy is a beloved, time-tested body lotion that delivers on its promise of deep, long-lasting hydration at an unbeatable price. Backed by over 180 years of brand heritage and the trust of millions, it excels at healing dry, rough, and eczema-prone skin with its rich cocoa butter and Vitamin E formula. The iconic cocoa butter scent is a signature that fans adore. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, and the fragrance and dyes may concern those with very sensitive skin. For straightforward, effective, and affordable body moisturization — especially for dry and eczema-prone skin — Palmer's remains one of the best values in skincare.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Theobroma Cacao Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|





