How to Use Whipped Body Butter for Soft Skin
By Tarte Cosmetics | Published: 2026-10-24
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the correct way to apply whipped body butter for deep hydration and soft, glowing skin. This step-by-step guide covers prep, application, and common mistakes.
Quick answer
Apply whipped body butter right after a warm shower on slightly damp skin, using gentle upward strokes. Focus on dry areas like elbows and knees, and let it absorb for a few minutes before dressing.
Why whipped body butter works differently
Whipped body butter has a rich, creamy texture that melts into the skin rather than sitting on top. It's designed for nightly use to nourish and soften dry skin, making it a great addition to your evening skincare routine.
Because it's thicker than a lotion, you need to apply it to slightly damp skin to help it spread evenly and absorb faster. Applying it to completely dry skin can make it feel greasy and take longer to sink in.
Choosing the right shade
Tarte Cosmetics' whipped body butter comes in two shades: Cake Butter and Citrus. Cake Butter has a warm, vanilla-like scent, while Citrus offers a fresh, zesty fragrance. Both provide the same nourishing formula, so pick based on your scent preference.
Step-by-step application guide
- Prep your skin: Take a warm shower or bath to open pores and soften the skin. Pat dry with a towel, leaving your skin slightly damp—not soaking wet. Applying to damp skin helps the butter glide on and absorb faster.
- Scoop a small amount: Use your fingertips to scoop about a pea-to-quarter-sized amount of whipped body butter. Warm it between your palms for a few seconds to soften it. Start with less than you think you need; you can always add more.
- Apply with upward strokes: Starting at your ankles, massage the butter into your skin using long, upward strokes. Work your way up your legs, then arms, torso, and neck. Use circular motions on joints like elbows and knees. Upward strokes help stimulate circulation and prevent tugging.
- Let it absorb: Wait 3–5 minutes before putting on clothes to allow the butter to fully absorb. This prevents transfer and ensures maximum hydration. If you're in a rush, focus on one section at a time and dress after each.
- Use nightly for best results: For ongoing dry skin relief, make whipped body butter part of your nightly skincare routine. Consistent use helps maintain softness and prevents moisture loss overnight. Skip application on mornings when you'll be in direct sun, as some scents can increase photosensitivity.
Product used in this guide
- whipped body butter: Whipped, creamy texture for easy application. Available in two shades: Cake Butter and Citrus. Ideal for nightly use to help nourish and soften dry skin. The whipped texture makes it easy to spread without tugging, and the two scent options let you customize your self-care routine.
whipped body butter
