Full disclosure: I’m an Ayurvedic bodyworker and I will always choose an oil over a cream.
But, that’s generally more for doshic harmonizing, and less for skin moisturizing benefits.

So, to be fair and balanced, my answer, for dry skin: cream.

But, quick caveat: not just any cream, and, absolutely not cheapo cream.
Why does quality of cream matter so much?
Aren’t all creams basically the same?
(Uh-oh. We need to talk.)

So, why it matters:
Commercial creams, those made in large volume by large companies are in the business of having high margins.
In order to have a high profit, they need to make tons of lotion at a time that needs to be “shelf stable” for at least 5 years.
In most cases, way longer than 5 years.

Shelf stability means that it will not break down and it will not promote microbial growth.

Basic Science: The main components in any cream are oil and water.

Left unprocessed, oil and water separate, and they create a perfect petri dish for overgrowth of yucky organisms.
To stay bound together and uncontaminated, the 2 things commercial creams require are preservatives and stabilizers, which are both alcohol-derived.

Think about it.
Adding alcohol to something that is supposed to moisturise your skin is nutty.

Using cheap or actually, even expensive, big brand creams set you up for failure, my friend.
Friends don’t let friends use cheap cream on their body.
Stop the madness!

Solavedi Organics Body Creams are made in very small batches.
Literally 12 jars at a time.
They are considered perishable, that’s how fresh and nourishing they are.

The preservatives and emulsifiers are not petroleum derived.
The botanical extracts are real.
Zero synthetic fragrances.
Highly evolved, if you ask me.