Shimmer body oil is everywhere right now. Whether it shows up in a sunlit vacation post, a red carpet leg reveal, or your favorite influencer’s skincare routine, glowing skin has become a beauty essential. And it’s not just about the look. The right body oil hydrates, enhances tone, and gives your skin a radiant finish in seconds.
But not all shimmer oils are created equal. Some absorb beautifully while others feel greasy, too glittery, or leave stains behind. So how do you choose one that works for your skin, tone, and lifestyle?
Here’s everything you need to know about the shimmer body oil trend and how the most talked-about options, including Kopari Beauty, really compare.
What Is Shimmer Body Oil?
Shimmer body oil is a lightweight blend of nourishing oils infused with light-reflecting particles. These particles, usually mica, create a natural or dramatic glow depending on the formula.
People use shimmer oils to:
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Highlight shoulders, collarbones, and legs
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Enhance melanin-rich skin
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Layer over body lotion or perfume
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Add a sun-kissed sheen without tanning
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Smooth and blur the appearance of texture
Why Is It Trending?
Shimmer oils became popular after taking over social media. Beauty creators showed off skin that looked dewy, radiant, and smooth with just a swipe of oil. But beyond aesthetics, these oils offer real skincare benefits. They moisturize, soften, and support the skin barrier while giving you that vacation-skin effect.
Benefits of Shimmer Body Oil
Hydration
Most shimmer oils contain ingredients like coconut oil, grape seed oil, or shea butter that seal in moisture and soften dry skin.
Radiance
Mica adds a natural glow that reflects light and enhances skin tone. It’s especially flattering in daylight, on camera, or under flash.
Multi-use flexibility
Use it on bare skin, mix with body butter, or layer with SPF or perfume. It works for both minimal and glam routines.
Confidence boost
Glowing skin looks healthier and smoother. That polished finish elevates everything from swimsuits to date night looks.
What to Look Out For
Sticky residue
Some shimmer oils feel heavy and sit on the skin. Choose fast-absorbing formulas if you’re active or layering clothing.
Glitter fallout
Chunky shimmer particles can transfer onto clothes or furniture. Finer mica blends are more wearable.
Overpowering scent
Fragrance-heavy formulas may irritate sensitive skin or compete with your perfume.
One-shade-fits-all problems
Not all shimmer oils complement deeper tones. If it leaves a silvery or ashy cast, it’s not the right match.
Comparing Top Shimmer Body Oils
SunGlow Shimmer Body Oil – Manjeri Skincare
Grape seed oil, coconut oil, mineral oil, mica
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Lightweight and quick to absorb
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Designed for melanin-rich and sensitive skin
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Subtle golden shimmer that can be layered
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Free of overpowering scent or glitter
Best for: Daily wear, glow layering, body confidence
Pros: Non-sticky finish, natural radiance, nourishes while it shines
Cons: Only one shimmer shade currently available
Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil – Tom Ford
Safflower seed oil, olive fruit oil, fragrance, mica
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High-shimmer luxury oil
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Strong perfume signature
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Warm golden tint with an expensive finish
Best for: Evening events, luxury beauty lovers
Pros: Bold radiance, indulgent fragrance
Cons: Pricey, high transfer risk, not ideal for scent-sensitive skin
Body Lava – Fenty Beauty
Avocado oil, coconut oil, shimmer particles
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Intense, high-gloss finish
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Comes in multiple shades
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Popular for photo shoots or statement looks
Best for: Parties, nightlife, content creation
Pros: Long wear time, bold shimmer
Cons: Thick and sticky, may feel heavy in heat
Monoi Body Glow – NARS
Coconut oil, tiare flower extract, fragrance
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Soft bronze finish with floral scent
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Nourishing and smooth
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Adds warmth without being glittery
Best for: Summer skin, tropical vacations
Pros: Subtle shimmer, skin-softening formula
Cons: Comes in glass packaging, not long-wear
GlowMotions Glow Oil – Sol de Janeiro
Cupuaçu butter, coconut oil, mica, fragrance
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Light shimmer and tropical scent
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Creamy oil texture that blends easily
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Pairs well with other scented body products
Best for: Beach days, layering fragrance
Pros: Medium glow, hydrating texture
Cons: Strong scent, moderate transfer
Golden Amber SunShield Body Glow – Kopari Beauty
Coconut oil, shea butter, mica, squalane, SPF
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Melts into skin with subtle sheen
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Ultra-moisturizing
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Vegan and cruelty-free
Best for: Dry skin recovery, post-sun glow
Pros: Lightweight coconut scent, soft finish
Cons: Minimal shimmer, may feel oily in humid climates
How to Use Shimmer Body Oil for Best Results
Step 1: Exfoliate
Use a sugar scrub, loofah sponge, or exfoliating gloves to remove dead skin. Smooth skin holds shimmer better and helps oil absorb evenly.
Step 2: Apply on Damp Skin
After showering, pat skin dry and massage in the oil while still damp. This helps lock in hydration and create a seamless glow.
Step 3: Focus on the High Points
Apply shimmer to collarbones, shoulders, legs, and arms. These areas catch the most light and reflect the glow naturally.
Step 4: Let It Set
Wait two to five minutes before dressing. If layering with SPF or perfume, apply shimmer oil first and let it absorb fully.
Skin-Loving Foods That Complement Your Glow
Pair your topical shimmer with skin-supportive nutrients to glow from the inside out:
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Avocados and walnuts for omega-3s
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Carrots and sweet potatoes for beta-carotene
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Pumpkin seeds for zinc
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Leafy greens for antioxidants
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Coconut water for hydration
Visit the Glow From Within section of our blog for food recipes that promote healthy, luminous skin every day.
Should You Add Shimmer Body Oil to Your Routine?
If you want your skin to look radiant, feel hydrated, and glow without effort, shimmer body oil is worth exploring. Whether you’re prepping for a big event or just want to elevate your self-care routine, there’s a formula that fits your vibe.
- Use SunGlow by Manjeri for everyday softness and a glow you can build.
- Reach for Kopari if you want subtle shine with maximum moisture.
- Try Fenty or Tom Ford when you want high-impact glam.
- Layer on Sol de Janeiro for vacation scent and tropical glow.
- Choose NARS for soft shimmer and summer bronze.
The glow is in your hands. Just exfoliate, apply, and let your skin shine.
