5 best body oils for a complete body glow up

Nothing beats that silky, glowing skin that looks like it’s been kissed by sunshine. You know, the kind that makes you want to skip foundation altogether? Well, here’s the thing: you don’t need some fancy '24k gold-infused lotion' to get it. The secret has been sitting in our Indian homes for centuries, good old body oil. From coconut oil that your dadi swore by to the trendy argan oil flooding your Insta feed, a few drops can totally transform dry, dull skin into smooth, radiant perfection.

So, if your skin’s been feeling like sandpaper lately (no judgement), here are 5 body oils that will give you a full-on glow-up.

Come on, was this ever not going to be first? Coconut oil is that one multitasker we all grew up with, for hair, for skin, for everything. It’s packed with fatty acids and antioxidants that dive deep into your skin, making it soft, smooth, and naturally glowy.

For best results, warm it up a bit before applying. Your skin will literally soak it in and thank you later. It’s perfect after a long day or post-sun exposure when your skin feels dry and tired. Want to take it up a notch? Mix a few drops of rose or lavender oil - instant spa vibes, right at home.

Almond oil is a timeless beauty elixir that brings an instant glow and silky smoothness to the skin. Packed with vitamin E, zinc, and healthy fats, it deeply moisturises, evens out skin tone, and helps fade tan or dullness. To use, warm a small amount of almond oil and massage it into your skin using circular motions before your shower, this helps improve blood flow and lets the oil penetrate deeply. For extra radiance, apply a few drops after bathing while your skin is still slightly damp to seal in moisture. With regular use, almond oil leaves your skin soft, supple, and naturally luminous, the kind of glow that looks effortless and feels indulgent.

Ah, til ka tel, a true gem from our Ayurvedic roots. It’s not as popular on Instagram, but if you know, you know. This oil is rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, making it a total game changer for dull or dry skin. It’s used in the traditional abhyanga massage - a self-care ritual that detoxifies and rejuvenates.

If your skin feels stretchy or dry (especially in winter), sesame oil is your saviour. Warm it slightly before applying and give yourself a good 10-minute massage. It boosts blood flow and makes your skin look firm, healthy, and radiant. Basically, old-school luxury at its finest.

Almond oil is for those who want that lit-from-within glow, minus the grease. It’s super light, smells divine, and absorbs fast. Plus, it’s loaded with Vitamin E and zinc that even out your skin tone and improve elasticity.

Use it at night before bed. Slather a thin layer all over, let it soak in while you sleep, and wake up with soft, glowing skin. You can also mix a few drops with lemon essential oil if you want to lighten tan lines or dark patches naturally.

Okay, if coconut oil is dadi-approved, argan oil is totally Gen Z-approved. Dubbed “liquid gold,” this Moroccan oil is the perfect pick for people who hate sticky oils. It’s rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids that make your skin glow without feeling greasy.

It’s ideal for humid Indian weather, just 2–3 drops on damp skin after a shower and you’re good to go. You will look glowy, not oily. Bonus: it smells amazing and gives your skin that smooth, glossy sheen you usually only get after a spa day.

Now, this one might be controversial, sarson ka tel. The smell can be a bit much, but trust me, it works wonders. Mustard oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that brighten the complexion and boost circulation. It’s been used for ages in Indian households for massages, especially in winter, to keep the body warm and skin supple.

To make it more pleasant, mix it with a few drops of jasmine or lavender oil. It tones down the strong scent and gives you that perfect “I just had a luxury spa” feel. Use it once a week for a deep-nourishing glow session, your skin will feel stronger, softer, and so much smoother.

If you have been looking for that head-to-toe glow without spending a fortune on fancy body oils, olive oil might just be your secret weapon. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and healthy fats that deeply nourish the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and naturally radiant. In fact, many Indian grandmothers have sworn by olive oil massages for centuries, it’s one of those timeless beauty rituals that always deliver results. To use it, warm a few tablespoons of olive oil and gently massage it into your skin before a shower. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so your skin can absorb all that goodness, then rinse with lukewarm water. You can also mix a few drops into your body lotion for daily use or apply a light layer right after a shower while your skin is still damp. It locks in moisture beautifully, giving you that healthy, luminous glow, no highlighter needed.

Always apply your body oil right after a shower while your skin’s still a little damp, it locks in all that moisture. You can also add a few drops to your favourite body lotion to make it extra hydrating.

At the end of the day, glowing skin doesn’t need a 12-step routine. Sometimes, all it takes is a few drops of oil and a little bit of self-love. Whether you are team coconut or vibing with argan, pick your favourite, warm it up, and give yourself a few minutes of care. You will walk out looking (and feeling) like you just had a glow-up retreat at home.