I generally prefer body oils to lotions because I think they absorb more quickly, and they seem to suit my skin better. I like using them right out of the shower, and after a day or two of use my skin feels amazing — super hydrated, smooth, and almost firmer.

I recently came across a new-to-me brand, Herbivore Botanicals, which is a 100% handcrafted vegan line. As a fan of all natural brands, I was super excited when they offered to send me some samples to try out. As the winter months settled in, and NYC became a veritable snow globe, I’ve been using the Luminous Cardamom & Vetiver Body Oil.

First up, the scent is something different from what I usually go for. The cardamom gives it a bit of a spicy, warmer feel — think gingerbread, or all-spice — and it’s a pleasant change for the colder months. There’s a wisp of vetiver underlying it, as well, a bit of ethereal smokiness that’s nice right out of the shower. But the thing I like most about the fragrance is that it doesn’t really last beyond the application process, which makes it feel more like a spa treatment. I’m a fan because it doesn’t conflict with any fragrance I want to use later.

Loaded with Apricot Kernel Oil, Jojoba Oil, Rosehip Oil, and the essential oil blend that gives it a touch of allure, this is a body oil that really delivers. It has a very nice consistency, and has some nice weight to it. I’ve used body oils that were too watery and made a mess, but this one still has some chutzpa so it goes exactly where you need it to. I start with the legs and use 10 pumps each, and then about 5 pumps for each arm, depending on how much I have left on my hands.