I Seriously Want To Bathe In The Soft Services Speed Soak Gel-Cream

Little fun fact about me: I hate slimy body lotions. There's arguably nothing worse than shimmying into my garments—or, gasp, jeans—with sticky limbs. The feeling seriously makes my skin crawl. 

Hysterics aside, you can probably tell that I take my textures very seriously. It's why I tend to gravitate toward lightweight numbers that instantly melt into my skin, but my dry, flaky complexion also needs enough moisture to remain soft and supple. See the dilemma here? 

If you enjoy fragrance-free, no-fuss body lotions, then this is the lightweight formula for you. The clouded gel cream contains 6% glycerin and 3% aquaxyl, two ingredients known for pulling water into the top layer of the skin and plumping it with hydration. Other humectants, like panthenol and betaine, make the formula so delightfully airy and spreadable, while squalane—beloved for its skin-barrier-supporting abilities—gives the lotion an easy, moisturizing glide.   

You won't find any oils (other than squalane) or butters in this formula, which keeps it super breathable and light. Don't get me wrong, I love a good shea butter confection, but it often makes the blend a tad heavier. Think of a warm cashmere blanket versus a light cardigan—depending on the weather, you might opt for the breezier option during the day and curl up with the former at night. 

I repeat: If a product feels sticky or goopy, I simply won't use it, despite how badly my skin needs the moisture. But the Soft Services formula provides the perfect ratio of lightweight hydration. I'll typically use it after rinsing off post-workout in the morning; by the time I towel off and slip on my clothes, I can't even tell it's there. 

Granted, it does have more of a gel texture, not like your standard creamy lotion. If you prefer a classically rich consistency, you might want to stick with a more emollient formula. But for a simple splash of moisture, it's sublime.