I'm curious about how to use body lotion for dry skin.

My skin has been dry lately, so I'm looking into body lotions for dry skin, but there are so many types that I don't know which one to choose. I'm confused because some say a thick texture is good, while others say one that absorbs lightly is better.

I apply it about twice a day, but I'm worried that if it's too heavy, it might feel stuffy in the summer.

I'm also curious about the order and method for applying body lotion for dry skin. I've heard it's better to apply it while the skin is still damp after showering; is that really true? Also, I've heard that exfoliating helps with absorption, but I'm not sure how often I should do that.

I would also like to know if there are any ingredients I absolutely must avoid.

I'm actually quite curious about these basic things, but it's frustrating because I have nowhere to ask.