If you’ve ever stood in a skincare aisle wondering whether to choose a liquid moisturizer or try one of those curious-looking solid bars, you’re not alone. As sustainable beauty continues to evolve, lotion bars—also known as solid moisturisers or moisturising bloks—are becoming a serious contender for those seeking long-lasting hydration, especially for dry or sensitive skin.
But how do they actually compare to traditional lotions?
Let’s dive into a side-by-side comparison of lotion bars vs. liquid lotion, explore how each works, and help you decide which is better for your unique skin needs—especially if you're dealing with dryness, eczema, or sensitivity.
What Is a Lotion Bar?
A lotion bar is a solid moisturiser typically made from rich plant butters (like shea or cocoa), nourishing oils, and natural waxes such as beeswax. Unlike liquid lotions, lotion bars contain no added water, meaning they’re more concentrated and require no preservatives.
Aardvel’s Moisturising Bloks are formulated with South African Buchu oil, unrefined shea and cocoa butter, and candelilla or beeswax—ingredients known for their ability to deeply nourish and protect the skin.
They’re designed to melt gently upon contact with your skin, creating a smooth, protective barrier that locks in moisture and soothes irritation.
Lotion Bars vs. Traditional Lotions: A Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Lotion Bar | Traditional Lotion |
|---|---|---|
| Water Content | 0% – highly concentrated | Up to 80% water |
| Preservatives Needed | No | Yes (to prevent bacteria in water) |
| Packaging | Usually plastic-free | Typically in plastic bottles |
| Portability | TSA-friendly, travel-proof | Subject to liquid restrictions |
| Hydration Level | Deeply hydrating, forms protective layer | Lightweight, evaporates more quickly |
| Shelf Life | Long, stable formula | Can degrade over time |
| Eco-Friendliness | Minimal packaging, zero waste | Higher packaging footprint |
As you can see, lotion bars offer several distinct advantages—especially for dry skin sufferers. Because they don’t rely on water to deliver hydration, the oils and butters in a lotion bar remain undiluted, penetrating the skin more effectively and offering longer-lasting moisture.
Why Lotion Bars Are Better for Dry Skin
Dry skin—whether it’s seasonal, genetic, or a result of environmental stress—needs more than just a splash of hydration. It needs nourishment, sealing, and protection. Here’s why lotion bars excel:
1. They’re Richer and More Emollient
Lotion bars are made entirely from oil-based ingredients, which means they have a thicker, creamier consistency than most liquid moisturisers. This makes them ideal for elbows, knees, hands, feet, or any area prone to extreme dryness.
Try our Buchu & Tea Tree Moisturising Blok for cracked heels, eczema-prone hands, or itchy winter skin.
2. They Lock in Moisture Longer
Because lotion bars don’t evaporate the way water-based lotions do, they create a semi-occlusive barrier that helps prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This means your skin stays hydrated longer—even in dry climates or after washing.
3. They’re Kinder to Sensitive or Eczema-Prone Skin
Many liquid lotions contain preservatives, fragrances, or emulsifiers that can irritate sensitive skin. Lotion bars, on the other hand, typically contain fewer ingredients and no fillers—making them an excellent option for those with eczema, psoriasis, or fragrance sensitivities.
Our Buchu & Tea Tree Moisturising Blok is particularly soothing, with calming botanicals that help reduce inflammation and redness.
4. No Pump, No Waste
With a lotion bar, you’re not paying for water or plastic. You get a product that lasts longer, travels better, and supports a low-waste lifestyle. Plus, there’s something meditative about applying a product directly onto your skin—melting it in with your own body heat.
Aardvel's Moisturising Bloks are plastic-free, palm oil free, and made in small batches in South Africa.
But Are There Downsides?
Lotion bars aren’t necessarily better for everyone or every occasion. If you’re used to lightweight, quick-absorbing formulas or need something fast in humid climates, a traditional lotion might feel more familiar. And while lotion bars are easy to use, they do require a bit of warming up—they need to soften slightly in your hands or on your skin.
That said, for anyone seeking targeted relief from dry skin, the benefits far outweigh the minor adjustments.
How to Use a Lotion Bar (for Best Results)
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Warm the bar between your hands or rub directly onto dry skin.
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Massage the oils in using circular motions, paying special attention to rough or flaky patches.
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Apply to damp skin after a shower to lock in extra hydration.
- Store it well—use a tin or jar, and keep it cool and dry between uses.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re battling dry, flaky, or irritated skin, lotion bars are your best bet. They deliver highly concentrated nourishment without the water, preservatives, and packaging waste of traditional lotions. Plus, they tend to last longer and offer better protection in harsh weather.
At Aardvel, we’ve formulated each Moisturising Blok with a thoughtful blend of South African Buchu, organic butters, and essential oils to target a variety of skin concerns:
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Buchu & Tea Tree: Antibacterial and soothing—perfect for eczema or acne-prone areas.
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Buchu & Rosemary: Calming and anti-inflammatory.
- Buchu & Rooibos: Antioxidant-rich and ideal for restoring skin resilience.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a lotion bar and traditional lotion isn’t just about texture—it’s about your skin’s needs, your values, and the kind of ritual you want to create.
If you’re looking for something more intentional, potent, and planet-conscious, a solid lotion bar may just become your skin’s new favourite companion.
Explore our full range of solid moisturising bloks and experience a deeper kind of hydration.
Concentrated comfort. No waste. All nourishment.
