If I’m going to use a skincare product, a key factor that sways me toward it is its consistency.
However, when consistency is well-coupled with efficacy and a heavenly scent, it’s a golden ticket into my routine — and that’s how I feel about Sol de Janeiro.
The brand proves that you don’t have to compromise the quality of your skincare to achieve a paradise-style summertime aesthetic. Its range of products, from its quintessential Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and Hair & Body Fragrance Mist, make it a versatile brand that’s easy breezy yet exceptional.
“Our purpose is to spark endless self-celebration and joy through the power and the warmth of the Brazilian spirit,” Heather Forcari, director of global education at Sol de Janiero, exclusively shared with the New York Post. “Everyone is welcome — our goal is to celebrate everything that’s unique and joyful about you.”
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I remember my first time hearing about its hero body butter and quite literally sprinting to Sephora to purchase the citrus-colored tub. I’ve probably finished up 10 of them since and it remains a fan-favorite in my beauty stockpile.
Because I’ve been testing the best of beauty for so long, I’ve developed a firm understanding of what it takes for a product to stand out among the thousands on the market. That’s why I put together an honest review of the Sol de Janeiro products I’ve used, all of which I’d recommend to anyone of any age.
What’s more, Brazil isn’t only the most important beauty and personal care market in Latin America, but “ranks among the largest cosmetics markets worldwide,” according to a 2024 Statista report. In that same vein, its packaging pays homage to those cherished curves Brazilians celebrate, with its vivid colors a commemoration of the culture’s vibrancy.
Ahead, find the full review of the brand that best boasts those beachy summer vibes. From those original creams to its expansion into fragrance and mists, here’s what I’d recommend grabbing from the brand.
Check out our in-depth FAQ section for an exclusive interview with Sol de Janeiro below the review.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream
Pros:
- Makes your bum and other areas of the skin feel well-moisturized, tight, and glowing
- Incredible paradise-inspired scent
- Tub lasts for six to 10 months
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
As expected, I’ll begin with the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream — the brand’s legendary product that deserves all the praise. It’s a great consistency that’s not too goopy nor too firm and, impressively, it’s one of the best to keep your bum in its best shape possible.
While it’s not restricting or uncomfortable when applied, it offers more absorption than your run-of-the-mill lotion. Plus, its scent instantly transports you to a tropical resort. I love using mine after nearly every shower.
The best part? You’ll feel your skin tightening and glowing, thanks to its caffeine-rich guaranà that’s infused with the warm, gourmand scent of Cheirosa ’62.
While it’s up there in price, it always lasts me for six to 10 months. I’ve noticed a difference in my skin, too, and it always feels well-nourished. If you’re on the fence, let this be your sign to grab it.
Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream
Pros:
- Absorbs well into the skin
- Subtle floral scent that’s not too overpowering, so wonderful for sensitive skin
- Helps support the skin’s collagen levels
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Consistency isn’t as thick as the brand’s Bum Bum Cream or Delicia Drench Body Butter
The Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream has a subtle floral scent and a dreamy, lightweight texture that is extremely versatile for any skincare user. It’s specially designed to help support the skin’s collagen levels as well.
What I love most about it is its keen anti-aging design, thanks to including bio-retinol in its ingredient list. While it’s lightweight and you wouldn’t initially consider it a typical “anti-aging” product, it visibly plumps my skin without feeling incredibly goopy. It’s also wonderful for hydration, as it includes squalane.
While I don’t reach for this cream as much as some others from the brand, its unique formulation that comes with an anti-aging focus makes me want to slather it on my arms and legs. Its soft texture makes it a wonderful multi-use cream as well.
Sol de Janeiro Delicia Drench Body Butter
Pros:
- The best for dry and sensitive skin
- Doesn’t hold a potent fragrance
- Helps repair the skin barrier, thanks to its inclusion of hyaluronic acid
Cons:
- Takes a longer time to rub in due to its thick consistency, but not a dealbreaker
Unpopular opinion, but the Sol de Janeiro Delicia Drench Body Butter is my favorite cream from Sol de Janeiro. I could kiss the brand for whipping out a beautifully thick and firm texture that still glides onto the skin.
It’s best equipped for my dry and sensitive skin because of how beautifully the cream sinks into my skin. As its name suggests, my skin is instantly drenched with moisture whenever I use it I love how there’s no incredibly potent fragrance, either, unlike the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream; even though I love it at times, I find myself reaching toward beauty products with little to no scent more regularly.
The whole ethos of this body butter is its mission to help repair the skin barrier. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it’s the perfect solution to helping your skin become healthy, nourished and smooth when used consistently.
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Lotion
Pros:
- Contains SPF 50 and protects against UVA and UVB rays
- Contains niacinamide to help balance the skin and mitigate redness
- Nurturing on the skin
Cons:
- While it doesn’t leave a white cast, it may leave a clear sheen if too much is applied
A newer product from Sol de Janeiro, the Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Lotion is a dermatologist dream. It includes SPF 50, which is above the recommended SPF 30 amount, too. It’s also broad-spectrum, so it’ll protect against UVA and UVB rays equally, helping to protect against aging and burns simultaneously.
Additionally, it’s packed with that cheery and adored Cheirosa 87 fragrance that has put the brand on the map, more or less. It’s 100% mineral as well and will absorb easily without leaving a white cast. I love its consistency and that it’s infused with niacinamide to help balance my skin and dial down any redness.
While it’s more expensive than some other body sunscreens you may find on the market, it’s wholly worth it for its staying power and elegant finish. You’ll feel like you’re relaxing at a resort and about to order a piña colada, not like you’re slathering on a milky white texture by the pool. It’s silky smooth and worth the try.
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray
Pros:
- Contains SPF 50 and protects against UVA and UVB rays
- Contains niacinamide to help balance the skin and mitigate redness
- Hydrating
Cons:
- Not simple to apply evenly, given it’s a spray, though not a dealbreaker; apply with care
The newest sensation, in a spray version. Meet the Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray, an alternative to creamy body sunscreens you may not prefer. While I don’t find myself using sprays all too often, this spray sunscreen is one of the first I’ve truly enjoyed using.
It’s pretty much the Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Lotion but in spritz fashion. It’s just as hydrating, includes niacinamide in its ingredient list, and holds that lovely Cheriosa 87 fragrance. If you’re seeking something lightweight and airy, this is the option for you. Just be sure you apply evenly, as it’s simple to become lazy with your sunscreen application with a spray rather than a rub-in cream.
Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 87 Rio Radiance Perfume Mist
Pros:
- Lightweight, airy, and perfect for summer
- Affordable
- Buildable scent
Cons:
- Not as long-lasting as perfume
The Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 87 Rio Radiance Perfume Mist proves that summer is here 24/7. Sure, fragrance is subjective, but I’d vouch that this one right here is difficult for people to say they don’t like it.
Warm florals are mixed with dreamy vanilla to create a delightful and buildable summertime scent. It also mingles creamy coconut milk to make it even more tropical. For less than $25, I’d say the fragrance is a great pick-me-up option, especially for the warmer months, and I love how it’s a lighter alternative to smelling good, especially when compared to most perfumes.
Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil
Pros:
- Helps boost the skin’s firmness
- Helps decrease puffiness on the skin
- Applies elegantly
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
Listen, I’m not a big body oil person because, like I said, my skin is extremely sensitive. However, the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil is in a class of its own.
It doesn’t break out my skin or make it feel greasy. Instead, it helps boost up the firmness, making it one I usually reach to after my shower and before applying the brand’s Brazilian Bum Bum Cream. It also helps decrease any skin puffiness, which is why I like to concentrate it on the inner thighs and other areas of my legs. After all, it soaks in beautifully and makes you feel like a movie star every time.
It’s composed of three key ingredients: Guaraná Caffeine+ Complex to help visibly firm the skin; Microalgae Extract to help decrease puffiness and Brazilian Olive Oil to help nourish and moisturize without that greasy feel. It’s one of the most expensive items from the brand, but worth it if you *really* want to focus on your skincare this time around.
Sol de Janeiro GlowMotions Glow Body Oil
Pros:
- Delivers a natural glow
- Ideal for self-tanner skeptics
- Doesn’t make you look orange or too bronzed
Cons:
- Isn’t the best for after-shower use
Achieving a natural, bronzed tan is all the rage, which is why the Sol de Janeiro GlowMotions Glow Body Oil is one of the brand’s top-selling products. As someone who avoids self-tanners like the plague and prefers bronzing drops to anything else, this product has the it-factor.
It’s luminous when applied, delivers a soft shimmer, and offers just the right amount of product to look like the skin is naturally glowing. I love to apply this to dry, clean skin when I finish applying makeup and I’m about to head out the door. While it’s a splurge, it’s worth it to avoid that chunky, Oompa Loompa tan nobody wants.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Strengthening Smoothing Shampoo
Pairs well with: Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Strengthening + Smoothing Conditioner ($26)
Pros:
- Delivers smoothness and volume
- Lasts long when styled with a dryer
- Sulfate-free, so offers a gentle cleanse
Cons:
- May not be the best for thicker hair types
I’ve reviewed way too many shampoos to count, and the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Strengthening Smoothing Shampoo is a standout if smoothness is what you’re looking for. My hair is medium thick and I find the ends of my hair are always baby soft once I style it with a blow-dryer brush.
The conditioner is just as lovely to use. Unfortunately, plenty of shampoos touting an end result of smooth hair never give me the volume I still want. Sol de Janeiro offers both, with a long-lasting style that doesn’t weigh down my hair.
Because it’s sulfate-free, it offers a gentle cleanse while effectively removing any build-up or debris caused by dry shampoo and other styling products. It’s worth the space on your shower shelf, especially for that delectable scent.
Sol de Janeiro Triple Brazilian Butter Hair Repair Treatment
Pros:
- Features a medley of Brazilian butters
- Great for dry or damaged hair
- Doesn’t weigh down the hair
Cons:
- Only in stock at Sol de Janeiro’s website
The Sol de Janeiro Triple Brazilian Butter Hair Repair Treatment is the beautifully scented hair mask your hair is so desperately craving. Its formula is a medley of Brazilian butters — including Cupuaçu, Murumuru, and Tucumã — that make for the ultimate trifecta for your locks.
I like to use this product in replacement of my shampoo about once a week. It’s excellent on split ends and allows for a naturally flowing body from root to tip, once styled. While designed for dry and damaged hair, I find that it’s just as effective on normal, balanced hair as well.
Plus, you can opt to purchase the miniature version if you want to try it before buying the full size.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Play Body Wash
Pros:
- Lathers well
- Hydrates the skin
- Helps prevent razor bumps
Cons:
- May not be best for those with chronically dry skin or eczema
For a lathering, moisturizing and sweet-smelling body wash, the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Play Body Wash is unlike any other. It helps soften and hydrate my sensitive and dry skin and I *love* how it contains antioxidant-rich açai.
Much like the brand’s shampoo and conditioner, its body wash is sulfate-free and delivers a just-as-gentle cleanse. It also helps prevent razor bumps with its silky smooth texture.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Glossy Nourishing Hair Oil
Pros:
- Elegant formula that leaves the hair glossy
- Versatile for pre-shower use or slicked-back hair looks
- Smells divine
Cons:
- Too much can make the hair look too greasy, so use with caution
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Glossy Nourishing Hair Oil is great to massage into the scalp before shampooing, use on dry hair to give it more nourishment, or to slick back your hair. That’s the beauty of the sweet-smelling product that’s not greasy or runny.
When it comes to hair oil, a little goes a long way. It’s fairly priced for the elegant quality you’re receiving, as it’s comparable to the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil ($46) and the 14th Night Hair Elixir ($68).
Glossy and moisturizing, it’s a Sol de Janeiro product that’s slightly under the radar but one I recommend picking up.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Milky Leave-In Conditioner
Pros:
- Ergonomic nozzle applicator
- Doubles as a heat protectant
- Lightweight and mitigates frizz
Cons:
- Price point is rather high for a leave-in product
Touting Sol de Janeiro’s signature scent and mission to soften your hair, the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Milky Leave-In Conditioner is a wonderful agent to use after your shower. I love the ergonomic spray nozzle and how it lightly dusts onto my locks.
Even better, I love how it doubles as a heat protectant and helps shield your beautiful hair from UV. There’s a reason why more than 5,000 Amazon shoppers purchase it each month. It’s also one of my favorites for taming frizz.
As great as it is, the price point is rather high for a leave-in product. The results are good to justify buying it, though. However, it does work best when you use it after the Brazilian Joia Strengthening Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner.
An FAQ on Sol de Janeiro
Ahead, Heather Forcari, director of global education at Sol de Janiero, tells all about the beloved Brazilian brand.
What makes Brazilian Bum Bum Cream so popular?
In one sentence, Forcari said: Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is iconic.
“It’s multi-award winning and, fun fact, we sell one every six seconds somewhere in the world,” she added. “It visibly firms your skin with caffeine-rich guaraná extract; this fruit is an antioxidant powerhouse and has five times more caffeine than coffee which is known to help stimulate micro-circulation for smoother-looking skin.”
The brand also uses açai oil in this cream which, along with guarana, is another antioxidant that will help prevent the environmental damage we get exposed to daily. “Cupuaçu butter is chock full of moisturizing fatty acids, calming and repairing Phytosterols, and antioxidant Polyphenols to lock in moisture and help support skin elasticity,” she noted, describing additional ingredients in the cream.
Brazil Nut Oil, the most selenium-rich food in the world, helps support the skin’s natural ability to protect itself while giving it the glow of healthy-looking skin and is also found in Brazilian Bum Bum. “Lastly, it’s scented with our other icon Cheirosa 62 — the scent that started it all.”
With delicious notes of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla, you can feel like it’s summer all year round.
What is the newest launch from Sol de Janeiro?
Sol de Janeiro’s new Rio Radiance SPF collection is your first line of defense against damaging UVA and UVB rays alike.
“These three new broad-spectrum SPFs feature advanced ingredients that not only protect the skin from harmful UV rays but also even skin tone, lock in moisture, and are scented with the nostalgic, beachy fragrance of our Cheirosa 87,” Forcarci explained. “Our 100% mineral UVA/UVB broad spectrum SPF 50 Body Lotion moisturizes with cupuaçu butter while niacinamide helps visibly brighten skin.”
Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes, Sol de Janeiro’s SPF 50 Body Spray hydrates and cools with coconut water, while vitamin C-rich pitanga extract and niacinamide visibly brighten the skin. It’s worth the quick, even spray.
“Our SPF 50 Body Oil is also water resistant for up to 40 minutes but also deeply nourishes with patauá oil while pongamia seed extract helps protect skin from environmental aggressors,” she said. “The golden mica in this formula adds a gorgeous shimmer to skin as well.” In essence, it’s sun protection worthy of your skin.
How are Sol de Janeiro’s products formulated?
“Here at Sol de Janeiro, our Product Development team attends industry trade shows and events searching for new, high quality and efficacious ingredients,” Forcari shared. “These ingredients create the unique textures and sensorial experiences of our products while also delivering visible results.”
The brand always includes Brazilian ingredients in each of its formulas (i.e guaraná, cupuaçu butter, and brazil nut oil) to spread the Brazilian spirit every time you use the brand’s lineup.
Top three products from Sol de Janeiro, per the brand
Exclusively, Forcari gave us the inside scoop on her favorite products at the brand, though rather difficult to discern.
“This is a hard question – it’s like asking me which of my dogs is my favorite because I love them all for different reasons,” she said. “If I must pick, like so many other people, I fell in love with Brazilian Bum Bum Cream years ago and I still love it today for how it makes my skin feel but, more importantly, how confident I feel when I use it.” Naturally.
She also loves the brand’s Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil and said it’s a “must-have for skin that is visibly firm and tightened.” And, with its sustainably sourced microalgae extract, it helps noticeably de-puff as well.
“To round out my routine, I love a good body scrub and our Bum Bum Body Scrub is the perfect companion to our iconic Brazilian Bum Bum Cream and Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil to create the ultimate body firming routine,” she shared. “Its ultra-fine texture gently exfoliates and nourishes with a microbead-free blend of crushed cupuaçu seeds, sugar crystals, caffeine-rich guaraná and nourishing coconut oil.”
How we tested
After using Sol de Janerio religiously since middle school — aka, about 10 years — here’s what I’ve been keeping in mind for each product:
- Formulation: Is it pigmented? Is it long-lasting? These factors were majorly taken into account.
- Irritation levels: I have incredibly sensitive skin, so I made a note if any product broke me out in any way (spoiler alert: thankfully, they didn’t).
- Finish and glow: Because the whole aesthetic of the Sol de Janeiro is sweet-smelling, glowy, and effective products, I made sure to note the top products within this review.
Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include reviewing the viral Korean beauty brand, Cosrx, and testing dermatologist-recommended acne cleansers. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.