If you’re anything like me, you already have a soft spot for Sol de Janeiro. Their body care products are pure joy, uplifting, nourishing and always smelling incredible. The Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream has been part of my routine for years, so when the brand launched the Body Badalada Vitamin-Infused Body Lotion, I had high expectations. And of course, you know I had to try it.

I’ve actually reviewed the Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream before on the blog, so I know exactly how it performs, and that made comparing it to Body Badalada so much easier.

I picked up my bottle of Badalada in Toronto airport on the way home from Canada back in July, and the wild part is that I’m still using the exact same bottle months later. For a lotion I apply almost daily, that’s impressive. Since then, I’ve used it through harsh Scottish weather, after mountain bike rides, on dry-skin days, after hot showers and even during those hormonal “my skin needs help” moments. So this review is based on real, long-term use by an actual skincare addict.

So is Body Badalada actually better than the Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream? Here’s everything you need to know before you buy.

 QUICK TAKE

• Badalada is better value, absorbs faster, feels lighter, gives longer-lasting hydration and has a fresher scent.

• Bum Bum Cream is richer, firmer-feeling, more indulgent and has the iconic Cheirosa ’62 fragrance.

• For everyday use → Badalada

• For firming + luxury pamper moments → Bum Bum Cream

What You’ll Learn in This Review

In this review, I break down exactly how the new Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada Lotion compares to the Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream. You’ll find out which lotion gives better hydration, how the textures feel on real skin, which formula works best for different skin types, whether Badalada is actually worth the £32 price tag, how both scents compare, and which one I personally reach for after months of daily use.

Why You Can Trust This Review

I’ve used Sol de Janeiro for years,  both as a beauty blogger and a product addict, and this comparison is based on months of real-life daily use, not a one-time application. Between Scottish weather, cold dog walks with Mylo, and post Mountain bike ride showers, I’ve tested these formulas in all the ways normal people actually use body lotion and more. 

Texture: Lightweight Silk vs Rich Butter

The first thing you notice with Body Badalada is how lightweight and silky it feels. It has an almost watery slip that spreads easily and melts into the skin immediately. There’s no waiting around, no tackiness, you can literally apply it and pull leggings on straight away. It’s a perfect “real life” lotion.

The Original Bum Bum Cream, on the other hand, is thick, buttery and designed to feel luxurious. Scooping it out of the tub gives that lush, pampering moment. It smooths the skin instantly and creates a firmer, more polished feel thanks to the caffeine-rich guaraná. It just takes a bit longer to absorb. You defo don't want to put your leggings or jeans on straight away here. making it more of a treat product than a quick morning moisturiser.

Scent: Iconic vs Fresh

The Bum Bum Cream’s Cheirosa ’62 scent is legendary: warm vanilla, pistachio and salted caramel, it’s impossible not to love. It’s strong, long-lasting and instantly recognisable.

Badalada vitamin infused body lotion has a more subtle, fresher twist on the signature Sol de Janeiro vibe. Still sweet, still gorgeous, but lighter and more wearable for everyday use or days you don’t want your body lotion to double as your perfume.

Hydration & Wear Test Throughout the Day

Both products leave the skin feeling soft right away, but what really surprised me is how long Badalada holds onto that hydration. One hour later, both felt lovely. Four hours later, Badalada still had that bouncy, moisturised feeling, whereas Bum Bum had started to sit more on the surface. By the end of the day, Badalada still felt present and hydrating.

This completely changed how I use them. Badalada became my everyday lotion because it wears longer and keeps my skin comfortable from morning to night. The OG remains my “feel amazing instantly Lux treat” cream, perfect for evenings, events, and pamper nights.

Ingredients: Explained Simply

Sol de Janeiro's new body Badalada is packed with ingredients designed for lightweight but long-lasting hydration: hyaluronic acid draws in moisture, Brazilian sugarcane squalane smooths the skin, and vitamin E helps condition and protect. It uses a lighter version of cupuaçu butter, giving nourishment without heaviness, just weightless hydration.

The Original Bum Bum Cream uses a richer blend including cupuaçu butter, coconut oil, and the famous caffeine-rich guaraná extract for that firming sensation. It’s less about deep hydration and more about smoothing, firming and giving that instant “skin looks good” finish.

Sol de Janeiro is one of those beauty brands that really understands skin and texture, and both of these body care products highlight that. The Badalada lotion leans into a lightweight lotion formula that gives deep hydration for thirsty skin, while the Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream focuses more on surface hydration, richness and that firmer-feeling finish. Both formulas include skin-softening ingredients, but they perform differently depending on what your skin needs.

Longevity: How Long They Actually Last

This is where Badalada really shines. I’ve been using the same 400ml bottle since July, and it’s still going. The pump dispenses just the right amount, the formula spreads easily, and you naturally use less because it’s so lightweight. The pump means you dont waste any product and really helps you make the most out of your lotion. 

By contrast, a tub of Bum Bum Cream doesn’t last nearly as long, especially if you’re as generous with your legs as I am. I love it, but for cost per wear it's not a close fight. 

If value for money matters, Badalada is undeniably the better buy.

Pros & Cons of the Body Badalada Lotion

Pros

• Absorbs instantly

• Lightweight yet deeply hydrating

• Fresher, softer scent

• Pump bottle is practical

• Lasts for months

• Great for dry, sensitive or oily skin

• Better everyday value than the OG

Cons

• Doesn’t give that firming “tightened” feel

• Scent is mild compared to Bum Bum

• Texture might feel too light for thick-cream lovers

Who Badalada Is Best For

Body Badalada vitamin infused lotion is ideal if you want a lotion that fits into everyday life quick, hydrating, easy, non-sticky and not overwhelmingly scented. It’s brilliant on dry, combination and sensitive skin and perfect if you want actual hydration that lasts all day without feeling heavy.

Who Should Skip Badalada

If what you love most is a thick, buttery cream with a powerful scent and a visible firming effect, the Original Bum Bum Cream will suit you far more.

My Review: How Badalada and Bum Bum Cream Fit Into My Real Routine

When I first picked up the Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada Lotion in Toronto airport back in July, I honestly didn’t expect it to become such a staple. I bought it out of curiosity.  Because of the new launch, it's such a big bottle, and I already loved the brand. But from the first use, it just slotted into my routine so easily. It’s one of those products you don’t have to think about. I can moisturise after a hot shower, pull on leggings straight away and get on with my day, whether that’s taking Mylo out, working on content or heading out on the bike. It's just simple no faff, just lovely skin. 

What really impressed me was how long the hydration lasts. My skin can get so dry in Scottish weather, especially after riding in the winter mud and rain or just being outside, but Badalada keeps that soft, bouncy feel going all day. It genuinely surprised me and we all know I am hard to please.  I expected the original Bum Bum Cream to be the stronger hydrator because it’s thicker, but for me, Badalada actually lasts longer on the skin. I know m uy mind was blown too. 

The OG Bum Bum Cream is still one of my comfort products.  I love the thickness, the warmth, the firming feel and that iconic scent that makes you feel instantly put-together. But if I’m completely honest, I only reach for it on slower days, when I want to feel pampered or when I’m doing a proper body care routine with a tan or a scrub. I feel like I am cheating on her by writing this. But it was time to come clean on my new love. 

Badalada has become my everyday essential. Bum Bum Cream is my weekend treat. And I think that sums up the real difference between them: one is practical, one is indulgent and they both fit different moods perfectly. 

The Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

In my honest opinion, Body Badalada is the better choice for everyday use. It’s lighter, faster-absorbing, hydrating for longer and far better value. It’s become the lotion I reach for without thinking. 

That said, the Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is still unbeatable for that classic scent, firmer-feeling skin and luxury texture. For special occasions, date nights or pamper evenings, I still reach for it.

Both deserve a spot on your shelf but if I had to choose just one for day-to-day life?
Badalada wins.

Where to Buy (UK)

Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada Lotion – £32

Available at Cult Beauty, LookFantastic, Sephora UK, Boots and Sol de Janeiro.

Is Badalada worth the £32 price tag? Yes 100% especially if you can grab it on sale. 

Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream – £21–£48

Available at Cult Beauty, LookFantastic, Sephora UK, Boots and Sol de Janeiro.

FAQ – What People Actually Ask

Is Badalada better than Bum Bum Cream?

For daily hydration and value, yes. For rich texture and firming, the OG is still better.

Does Badalada smell like the 62 scent?

It has the same Sol de Janeiro sweetness, but it’s fresher and less intense.

Is Badalada good for dry skin?

Very, it hydrates deeper and lasts longer throughout the day.

Is it worth the money?

Absolutely. I’ve been using the same bottle since July and it’s still not finished.

Which one should I use in summer vs winter?

Badalada is perfect for summer and daily use. Bum Bum Cream is lovely for winter and pamper nights.

Final thoughts 

And that brings my full review of the Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada Lotion vs the Original Brazilian Bum Bum Cream to a close. After months of real daily testing, Badalada has become my go-to for long-lasting hydration and everyday use, while the OG still shines for richer texture and that iconic Cheirosa ’62 scent. I hope this helped you decide which formula is right for your skin and routine. If you want more honest beauty reviews or body care comparisons, you’ll find plenty more here on the blog and feel free to message me if you need a personalised recommendation.

If you’ve tried either one, let me know which you prefer  I love hearing your thoughts.

About the Author

Laura is a UK beauty and lifestyle blogger behind MissLJBeauty.com, sharing honest, long-term product reviews for over 10 years. Based in the Scottish Highlands, she tests skincare and body care in real-life conditions — from cold weather to bike rides and busy days with her trail dogs.