It's mid-afternoon in January and your shins are itchy, your hands feel like paper, and the lotion you put on this morning is long gone. Dry winter skin is one of the most common complaints there is, and the fix is simpler than most labels make it sound.
Why skin gets so dry in winter
Your skin keeps itself soft with a thin layer of natural oils that holds water in. Cold outdoor air, dry indoor heat and long hot showers all strip that layer away, so moisture escapes faster than your body can replace it. Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends thick moisturizers and gentle skin care as a first step for dry skin (source).
Butter vs. lotion
Lotions are mostly water, which feels light but evaporates quickly. Body butters are made mostly from rich plant fats like shea and cocoa butter. They sit on the skin as a soft protective layer that helps hold moisture in, which is why they feel so good on rough spots like elbows, knees and heels.
Where lavender comes in
Lavender's biggest gift in skincare is the ritual. A few slow minutes rubbing in something that smells like a summer field is a real way to unwind, and lavender is one of the most studied scents for relaxation and sleep. A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized trials found lavender essential oil improved adults' sleep quality (source). Our lavender is Lavandula angustifolia, English lavender, the same species used in that research, grown on our family farm in West Michigan.
One honest note: a small number of people are sensitive to lavender or other plant oils on their skin. If you have very sensitive skin, try a little on your inner arm first.
A simple evening ritual
- Keep the shower warm, not hot, and short. Hot water strips natural oils.
- Pat dry and moisturize right away, while your skin is still a little damp, to hold that water in.
- Warm it in your hands first so it melts and spreads easily.
- Focus on the rough spots: elbows, knees, heels and hands.
- Breathe. Dim the lights and take a few slow breaths of lavender before bed.
During the day
- Reapply to your hands after washing them.
- Wear gloves outside on windy days.
- A humidifier at home helps a lot in winter.
Our lavender bath and body care
Browse our lavender bath and body collection, made in small batches in Michigan with lavender from our own farm. Each product page lists its full ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
Is a body butter good for eczema or very sensitive skin?
Rich moisturizers are often recommended for dry, sensitive skin, but eczema varies a lot from person to person. Patch-test first and ask your doctor or dermatologist what is right for you.
Will it feel greasy?
Butters are richer than lotions. A small amount goes a long way, and it soaks in best on slightly damp skin.
Can I use it on my face?
Body butters can be heavy for facial skin, especially if you are prone to breakouts. Patch-test first.
Can I use it during pregnancy?
Please check with your doctor or midwife before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk with your doctor about any health concerns.
