Udisha
While many may assume otherwise, body lotion can't really be used interchangeably as hand or foot cream. While use of body lotion on hands and feet don't cause harm, it is not effective.
All three creams have different consistencies. Body lotion is usually lighter and more watery for easy application and quick absorption on the body. Hand creams and foot cream are designed to be thicker because hands get easily dry and the skin on the feet is tougher and prone to crack. A heavy formula helps lock in moisture.
Difference in ingredients also affects effectivity. Typically, body lotions contain glycerin or hyaluronic acid for hydration. Hand creams, on the other hand, are packed with nut oils, shea butter or even Vitamin E for extra protection. Foot creams have exfoliating agents like salicylic acid, urea or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) to help soften calluses and break down dead skin.
Applying body lotion everywhere won't help you address problems specific to hands and feet. Body lotions provide general hydration, preventing dryness. Hand creams are formulated to heal damage from sun exposure, cracking or premature aging while foot creams work to give you smoother feet devoid of cracks and dead skin cells.
Hand and foot creams provide more long-lasting nourishment, addressing graver problems which body lotion alone can never solve.