This Lotion Is A Trip

Here’s the rundown: Skin Trip’s Coconut Lotion was developed in 1971 by Karen Benjamin in the Rockies. At first glance, it reminds you of something you’d find at a shop selling baja hoodies, Himalayan salt crystals, and incense. The label alone looks like it was whipped up in the back of an art class in the 70’s with some calligraphy pens, which is refreshing after years of sans serif and white space dominating design. Think of it as the forefather to the visual identity of Bathing Culture or Wary Meyers.

When poured, the PH balanced formula is quite runny, reminiscent of a generic drugstore lotion. That being said, it does absorb fast, a property it prides itself on and once dry, will leave you feeling like you’re covered lightly in a (generic) sunscreen.

Skin Trip’s signature coconut scent is derived from an essential perfume oil and does not contain phthalates or paraben. If you’re craving the smell of Hawaiian Tropic or Sonic’s Blue Coconut flavoring (the latter of which we are huge fans of), Skin Trip actually smells like a 70/30 split of spicy vanilla and coconut. That scent lasts all day - it is not subtle nor is it overpowering, situated somewhere in between, which isn’t a problem if you’re a fan of coconut or scented lotions in general. But if you prefer the scent of your cologne or no scent at all, it’s potentially problematic.

If you don’t need something heavy duty i.e. anything that promises to repair your skin, we’d recommend this lotion in lieu of your $6 and under bottles of lotions found at every big box store. It can be a nice change to your daily products, placing you olfactorily at some Hawaiian resort! We give it major points for its label, being a family-owned and homegrown brand, and having its own spin on an oft-used but often botched scent.

Skin Trip Coconut Lotion, $11.94

Price point: Medium