AVON Skin So Soft Original Body Lotion for Women, Paraben-Free
✅ PROS
- Signature Skin So Soft scent that doubles as a light fragrance — no need for separate perfume
- Paraben-free formula that absorbs in under 60 seconds without greasy residue
- Works as a mild insect repellent base layer, a long-standing cult trick
❌ CONS
- Scent is polarizing — if you dislike floral-musk, this will linger all day
- Thin lotion consistency isn't enough for severely dry winter skin — you'll need a heavier cream overlay
- Pump dispenser can clog if you don't use it daily
The Verdict
Some products earn cult status for their results. AVON’s Skin So Soft earned it for a rumor — that the scent keeps mosquitoes away. That myth (partially true, we’ll get to it) has kept this lotion on bathroom shelves for four decades. But as a daily moisturizer in 2026, does it hold up against modern body lotions with ceramides and hyaluronic acid? I tested it for two weeks to find out.
What’s in the Bottle
You’re getting a 16.9-fluid-ounce pump bottle of lightweight white lotion. The formula is paraben-free, which matters if you’re scanning ingredient lists. It’s not fragrance-free — the iconic Skin So Soft scent is a floral-musk blend that’s sweet, powdery, and unmistakably retro. The pump delivers a clean dose each press, and the lotion spreads easily across large areas like legs and arms without dragging.
The Real-World Performance
Here’s where this product surprises. The consistency is thinner than typical body butters — almost a hybrid between lotion and milk. That means it absorbs fast. I applied after a hot shower, and within 60 seconds my skin felt hydrated, not sticky. No residue on my clothes, no slick palm prints on my phone. For everyday use in moderate climates, it does the job without fuss.
But it’s not a heavy-duty moisturizer. If you have eczema patches or live in a dry winter climate, this won’t cut it. The hydration lasts maybe six hours before you’ll want to reapply. It’s a maintenance lotion, not a repair treatment.
What Buyers Keep Saying
The 4.4-star rating across 220 reviews tells a consistent story. One reviewer wrote, “I’ve been using this since the 90s. Nothing else smells like this, and nothing else keeps my skin this soft in summer.” Another noted, “The mosquito thing is real — I spray this on my ankles before walking the dog and I come home bite-free.” That insect-repellent angle isn’t marketing; it’s a documented fan hack. The lotion contains a blend of oils that mosquitoes dislike. It’s not as effective as DEET, but for light evening walks, it’s a pleasant alternative.
Where It Falls Short
The scent is the elephant in the room. It’s strong. You’ll smell it on yourself for hours. If you love powdery florals, great. If you prefer unscented or citrusy products, this will overwhelm you. Also, the pump mechanism can jam if you leave it untouched for a week — I had to unscrew the top and tap it to get flow going again. And as mentioned, the hydration level is medium at best. Don’t buy this expecting overnight transformation for cracked heels.
Who Should Buy This
You’re the target if you remember Skin So Soft from childhood and want that nostalgic scent back. You’re also a fit if you want a two-in-one light moisturizer and subtle fragrance for warm weather. And if you spend time outdoors in mosquito territory, this is a gentler-smelling alternative to chemical repellents.
Skip it if you need intense moisture for dry, flaky skin, or if you can’t tolerate strong fragrances in body care.
FAQ
Does this actually repel mosquitoes?
Anecdotally, yes — many buyers confirm it works as a mild deterrent. It’s not a replacement for serious repellents in heavy-infestation areas, but it helps for casual outdoor time.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
The formula is paraben-free and gentle for most, but the added fragrance can irritate very sensitive skin. Test on a small patch first.
Is this the same as the original Skin So Soft from the 80s?
Close, but not identical. AVON tweaked the formula over the years to remove parabens, so the scent is slightly softer than the original.
The Verdict
Buy it if you want a nostalgic, lightly hydrating lotion with a signature scent that doubles as a subtle bug deterrent. Skip it if you need heavy-duty moisture or prefer unscented products.
Rating: 4.2/5 — A solid, dependable classic that earns its place in your routine, with limitations you should know before buying.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.