How to Apply Lotion to Your Own Back: 6 Easy Ways

By Mark from Outback, The Outback Series customer care5 min read

The short answer

You do not need a second person. The easiest ways to reach your own back are: the towel see-saw, a long-handled lotion applicator, a spray you can aim over your shoulder, or a roll-on on an extender handle.
Match the tool to the product. Thick lotions go on best with an applicator or towel. Oils and rubs go on cleanly with a roll-on extender or spray.
Sit down or stand next to a counter for balance, and never force a stiff shoulder into a reach.

Why this is harder than it should be

Almost everyone loses a little shoulder reach over the years. Add a stiff morning, a partner who is at work, or living on your own, and the middle of your back becomes the one spot you cannot take care of yourself.

The good news: every method below takes less than a minute and costs somewhere between nothing and $14.

6 ways to apply lotion or oil to your own back

1. The over-and-under reach (free)

Put a small amount on the back of one hand. Reach one hand over your shoulder and the other up from your waist, and spread it with the backs of your hands and fingers. Works if you are flexible. Skip it if either shoulder complains.

2. The towel see-saw (free)

Put a line of lotion across the middle of a clean hand towel. Hold one end in each hand behind your back, like you are drying off after a shower, and see-saw it gently across the spot. Wash the towel afterwards. Best for thick lotions.

3. A long-handled lotion applicator (about $10 to $15)

A soft pad or sponge on a curved handle. Squeeze lotion onto the pad and sweep it across your back. Easy to find at pharmacies. Rinse the pad after each use so it does not get grimy.

4. A clean kitchen spatula you keep just for this (a few dollars)

A wide silicone spatula works surprisingly well in a pinch. Label it so it never goes back in the kitchen drawer.

5. A spray you can aim over your shoulder

For oils and rubs, a spray is the fastest option. Reach over your shoulder, spray a light layer on the spot, and use your fingertips or an applicator to spread what you can reach. Hold the can a few inches away so it does not run.

6. A roll-on on an extender handle

The tidiest option for oils. Clip a roll-on into a long handle and roll it straight onto the spot. Nothing gets on your hands, nothing drips, and you can reach the middle of your back while sitting in a chair.

Mark's tipCustomers who live alone tell me the extender is the thing they did not know they needed. Keep it right next to the bottle so you actually use it.

Which method works best for what

What you are putting on	Easiest method	Why
Thick lotion or cream	Towel see-saw or long-handled applicator	Spreads a thick layer evenly
Oil or rub	Roll-on extender or spray	Goes exactly where you aim, no drips
Sunscreen	Spray, then a long-handled applicator	Even coverage over a big area
Anything, when shoulders are stiff	Extender or applicator, seated	No reaching or twisting

Tips that make it easier

Right after a shower is the easiest time. Skin is warm and a product spreads further.
Sit down, or stand by a counter. Reaching behind you shifts your balance.
Use a hand mirror and the bathroom mirror together to see the spot you are missing.
Rub it in, then wipe. Massage it in for about 30 seconds, then wipe away anything left on the surface so it does not end up on your shirt.
The most-missed spot is right between the shoulder blades. Start there and work outward.

The Outback way to reach your back

Easy Reach Extender

A long handle made for the Outback Original Oil roll-on. Clip the roll-on in and apply to your back, neck or feet without bending or reaching. $13.95. The roll-on is sold separately.

See the extender

Prefer to spray? Outback Original Oil Spray covers a big area fast. Using the 300mL pump? Pair it with the Outback Oil Applicator. Every order is covered by our 365-Day Returnless Refund.

Try Outback for a full year

Four Australian plant ingredients, nothing that burns or freezes. Every order is covered by our 365-Day Returnless Refund, ships the same business day when you order by 2pm ET, and ships free on orders of $40 or more.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the easiest way to put lotion on your own back?

For lotions and creams, the towel see-saw or a long-handled lotion applicator. For oils and rubs, a roll-on on an extender handle or a spray. All of them work without help.

How do you put oil on your back without it dripping?

Use a roll-on on an extender handle, or spray a light layer from a few inches away. Massage it in for about 30 seconds, then wipe away anything left on the surface.

Can I use a spray on my own back?

Yes. Reach over your shoulder, spray the spot lightly, and spread what you can reach with your fingertips or an applicator.

What if my shoulders are too stiff to reach at all?

Use a tool so you do not have to reach: an extender, a long-handled applicator or the towel see-saw, and do it sitting down. If your shoulder range is getting worse, it is worth mentioning to your doctor or a physical therapist.

Will the Outback Easy Reach Extender fit other roll-ons?

It is made for the Outback Original Oil roll-on and will not fit other brands.

More Outback guides

This guide is general information, not medical advice. If reaching or twisting causes pain, stop and talk with your doctor or a physical therapist. Use any product as its label directs.