The Best Natural Body Lotions (15+ Products Ranked!)
Last Updated: August 12, 2023
We analyzed the ingredients in 15+ of the most popular clean body lotions to find the best and safest options.
Today we’ll be looking at…
- The problem with conventional body lotion.
- Why make the switch to a natural body lotion?
- The ingredients of concern in body lotions.
- The better ingredients you might find in a natural body lotion.
- The best natural body lotions, analyzed on ingredients.
Along with sunblock, moisturizer is one of the key parts of any good skincare routine. Moisturizers keep the skin hydrated, not only by adding moisture back into the skin, but by trapping the moisture that’s already there.
A skincare routine doesn’t end at the neck—a body lotion is an essential part of any beauty arsenal. The skin is the largest organ, and keeping it hydrated is essential to keep it healthy.
There are many different moisturizers on the market, and they all have different ingredients. As you might expect, there are surprisingly harmful ingredients lurking in some mainstream body creams and moisturizers.
The Problem With Conventional Body Lotion
It’s true that our skin actively absorbs some chemicals readily. When you consider that body lotion is spread over a large area of the skin, this could mean that any potentially harmful ingredients in the product could be making their way into your skin.
It’s a common misconception that products on store shelves are always safe. In reality, many conventional body lotions are formulated with a cocktail of questionable ingredients that can cause various health issues over time.
For example:
- Chemical fragrances often contain many undisclosed ingredients, triggering skin irritation, allergies, and even respiratory issues.
- Parabens, widely used as preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products, have been linked to hormonal disruption. They may contribute to the development of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer.
The continuous use of conventional body lotions potentially puts our health at risk and harms the environment. When we wash these chemicals off our bodies, they end up in the water supply, affecting aquatic life and ecosystems.
Furthermore, the production and disposal of synthetic chemicals contribute to air and soil pollution.
In light of these concerns, making conscious choices regarding body lotions and other personal care products becomes increasingly important.
Opting for non-toxic, natural, and eco-friendly alternatives can help minimize potential health risks while also helping to protect our environment in the long run.
Why Make The Switch To Natural Body Lotion?
Unlike conventional body lotions, natural body lotions are formulated with better-for-you ingredients like plant oils, minerals, and vitamins that nourish the skin. These more natural options are a great alternative for those looking to be more conscious about the products they use on their skin.
If you’ve had any skin concerns and have been trying traditional body moisturizers and have had skin issues, it’s possible that by switching to a non-toxic alternative, they may clear right up.
The benefits of natural body lotions include…
- Nourishing Ingredients: Natural body lotions are packed with plant oils, minerals, vitamins, and botanical extracts that provide essential nutrients to your skin. These ingredients work in harmony with your skin’s natural processes, helping to maintain its health and vitality. You’re giving your skin the best possible care and nourishment by choosing natural body lotions.
- Reduced Skin Irritation: Conventional body lotions often contain synthetic chemicals and fragrances that can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and allergies, especially in sensitive skin. On the other hand, natural body lotions are formulated with gentle, hypoallergenic ingredients that are less likely to trigger adverse reactions. If you’ve struggled with skin issues while using traditional body moisturizers, switching to a non-toxic alternative might be the solution you’ve been seeking.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: Some conventional body lotions contain ingredients linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and even cancer. While the risk from using such products might be low, switching to a natural body lotion can provide peace of mind by minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
- Healthier Skin Barrier: A strong, healthy skin barrier is crucial for maintaining skin hydration and protecting against environmental stressors. Natural body lotions contain ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, and antioxidants that support the skin barrier function, helping to lock in moisture and defend against external irritants.
- Eco-Friendly and Cruelty-Free: Natural body lotions are often made with sustainable ingredients and come in environmentally friendly packaging. Many brands are also committed to cruelty-free practices, ensuring their products are not tested on animals. By choosing natural body lotions, you’re benefiting your skin while often supporting ethical and eco-conscious companies.
Switching to natural body lotion can lead to healthier, happier skin while promoting sustainable and ethical practices. If you’ve experienced skin issues with conventional moisturizers, switching to a non-toxic alternative might be the answer you’re looking for.
Ingredients To Be Aware of In Body Lotions
Parabens
Often found on ingredient lists as methyl-, butyl-, ethyl-, or propylparaben, these compounds are frequently used as preservatives in cosmetic products. They can be absorbed through the skin, and have been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity.
Parabens are not part of the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) list, meaning they can be included in products labeled as organic—a trick you need to watch out for. Conversely, the European Union has banned products with parabens since 2012.
Because there are products with safer alternatives, we don’t recommend using products with parabens.
Fragrance
A common reason for skin irritation, and a 2008 study found that 83% of drugstore creams contained at least one fragrance or a fragrance-related allergen.
When used in products, fragrance is an umbrella term, and there are currently 3059 chemical ingredients that can be used in fragrances. And what’s worse is that manufacturers can list “fragrance” and not the individual ingredients that go into the fragrance.
Since we have no idea what ingredients make up most fragrances, we don’t recommend buying products with synthetic and undisclosed fragrance.
Polyethylene Glycol
Ethoxylated ingredients, such as PEGs (polyethylene glycols) and some polysorbates, are used as conditioners’ emulsifiers, solvents, and stabilizers. The ethoxylation process can lead to contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a potential human carcinogen. While 1,4-dioxane is often present in trace amounts, long-term exposure may pose health risks.
Retinyl Palmitate
Retinoids, a class of synthetic compounds derived from vitamin A, have gained significant attention in the skincare industry for their potential benefits in addressing acne and aging concerns. However, certain forms of retinoids, such as retinyl palmitate, have been the subject of ongoing debate regarding their safety and effectiveness.
You may encounter this ingredient under names such as retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinyl linoleate, and retinoic acid. Retinoids, which are synthetic forms of vitamin A, have gained recognition for their ability to treat acne and reduce wrinkles.
However, the use of retinyl palmitate has sparked debate due to conflicting research on its safety and effectiveness.
A 2012 U.S. National Toxicology Program study examined the risks associated with retinyl palmitate. Mice in the study were subjected to artificial sunlight for four hours daily and treated with creams containing retinyl palmitate or retinoic acid. These mice developed more tumors and at a faster rate than those exposed to sunlight without cream treatment or those treated with just carrier cream.
Another 2005 study looked at the effects of treating mouse lymphoma cells with retinyl palmitate and exposing them to UV-A light, which has deeper skin penetration than UV-B rays. The researchers discovered that the mutation frequency of cells—a factor contributing to cancer—was three times higher when cells were treated with retinyl palmitate and exposed to UV-A, compared to cells exposed only to UV-A light.
Retinols are also known to cause skin irritation, so make sure to avoid using high concentration retinoids in the beginning.
While retinoids have shown promise in treating acne and reducing wrinkles, the use of retinyl palmitate remains controversial due to conflicting studies on its safety and efficacy. The studies mentioned above suggest that retinyl palmitate may increase the risk of skin cancer when exposed to UV-A light. Therefore, we recommend ensuring application with this active ingredient occurs overnight (to avoid sunlight exposure) or with sunscreen.
Mineral Oil
Derived from petroleum, mineral oil is a cheap and readily available ingredient used to create a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.
Some individuals may find that mineral oil can clog pores, potentially leading to acne or other skin issues.
In terms of environmental impact, as a petroleum byproduct, the use of mineral oil raises concerns about its environmental impact, particularly in terms of sustainability and carbon footprint. Mineral oil can also clog soil which results in reduced aeration and water infiltration, leading to soil degradation.
There is a potential risk of contamination with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during the refining process of mineral oil. PAHs have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, and these molecules are lipophilic which means they can absorb through the skin.
However, cosmetic-grade mineral oil undergoes strict purification processes to remove impurities and ensure its safety for use in skincare products.
Cyclopentasiloxane (D5)
This controversial ingredient has come under fire for its potential health and ecological risks. In 2018, the European Union introduced restrictions on cyclopentasiloxane in products that are washed off. The EU’s study found that concentrations above 0.1% risk accumulating in the water supply.
It has been found that D5 could be mildly irritating to the skin, but it was subjective, and there is very little evidence to show that it can be absorbed by the skin. The problem is that D5 can often be contaminated with D4 (cyclotetrasiloxane) which is potentially toxic to reproduction.
BHA / BHT
The European Commission on Endocrine Disruption has discovered that BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) has the potential to interfere with the endocrine system.
BHT (butylhydroxytoluene), on the other hand, has been associated with hormone disruption and is included in California’s Prop 65 list as a possible carcinogen. BHA and BHT are often found together in various food products and cosmetics as preservatives, extending the shelf life of these items. It is important to note that very little BHT penetrates the skin, and the amount absorbed typically only remains in the skin and does not travel to the bloodstream.
However, the combined effects of these two chemicals on human health are still unknown and warrant further investigation. Consumers should be aware of the presence of BHA and BHT in products they use and consider alternative options with fewer potential health risks.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (DMDM hydantoin)
Some body lotions contain preservatives that slowly release small amounts of formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. Examples of these preservatives include DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15.
Formaldehyde is known to cause irritation and respiratory reactions; it’s also been linked to cancer. For this reason, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives should be avoided in body lotions, especially since they’re spread over a large area of the body.
Triethanolamine (TEA)
TEA is primarily used as a surfactant, pH adjuster, or a preservative. The European Union and Canada have set concentration limits and additional restrictions for the use of TEA in cosmetic products.
There is some evidence that triethanolamine is carcinogenic at higher doses. Oral carcinogenicity studies found TEA not carcinogenic to rats or mice, but toxic to the kidneys of rats, especially females.
Ingredients To Look For In Natural Body Lotion
Conversely, there are a lot of great ingredients that can be found in natural body lotions. Here are some you might expect to find…
- Aloe Vera: A popular soothing and hydrating ingredient known for its skin-loving properties. It provides lightweight moisture and can help alleviate irritation.
- Shea Butter: Rich in vitamins and fatty acids, shea butter moisturizes and nourishes the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated or sensitive skin.
- Cocoa Butter: This natural emollient is packed with antioxidants and fatty acids, which help to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental damage.
- Jojoba Oil: Closely resembling the skin’s natural sebum, jojoba oil helps to balance oil production and provide non-greasy hydration.
- Sweet Almond Oil: A lightweight oil that absorbs quickly, sweet almond oil is rich in vitamin E, which supports skin health and helps maintain elasticity.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil helps to soothe and nourish the skin while providing deep hydration.
- Glycerin: A natural humectant, glycerin attracts moisture to the skin, helping it to stay hydrated and maintain its natural moisture balance.
Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Moisturizers
Moisturizers come in various formulations, and one of the most common distinctions is whether they are oil-based or water-based.
Oil-Based Moisturizers
Oil-based moisturizers contain more oil or oil-derived ingredients, such as plant oils, mineral oils, or petroleum-based substances.
These ingredients act as emollients, helping to soften and smooth the skin. Some common oils used in oil-based moisturizers include jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and grapeseed oil.
Key features of oil-based moisturizers:
- Rich and creamy texture
- Provide intense hydration and nourishment
- Create a barrier to prevent moisture loss
Best suited for:
- Dry or mature skin types
- Cold, dry climates
- Nighttime use
Water-Based Moisturizers
Water-based moisturizers have a higher water content and are formulated with lightweight, water-soluble ingredients. These moisturizers often contain humectants, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or propylene glycol, which attract and bind water molecules to the skin, providing hydration.
Key features of water-based moisturizers:
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- Hydrate without feeling greasy or heavy
- Less likely to clog pores
Best suited for:
- Oily or combination skin types
- Hot, humid climates
- Daytime use or under makeup
Body Creams, Lotions, And Oils: What’s the Difference?
Body cream, body lotion, and body oil are moisturizers designed to hydrate and nourish the skin. However, they differ in terms of consistency, ingredients, and the level of moisture they provide.
Here is a detailed breakdown of each:
Body Cream:
- Consistency: Body creams are typically thicker and richer in texture than body lotions. They are more like a blend of oil and water, which gives them a luxurious, creamy feel.
- Ingredients: Body creams contain a higher concentration of oils and butters (such as shea or cocoa butter), which help to create a protective barrier on the skin and lock in moisture.
- Best for: A body cream might be your answer if you have dry skin. They provide intense hydration and can help soothe and repair damaged skin, and are also suitable for use during colder months when the skin tends to be more dehydrated.
Body Lotion:
- Consistency: Body lotions have a lighter, more fluid consistency than body creams. They are easily absorbed by the skin and provide quick hydration.
- Ingredients: Body lotions are water-based and contain less oil than creams. They often include humectants like glycerin, which help to draw moisture to the skin.
- Best for: Body lotions are suitable for normal to slightly dry skin and can be used daily for hydration and maintenance. They’re also perfect for warmer weather, as they are less likely to feel heavy or greasy on the skin.
Body Oil:
- Consistency: Body oils have a liquid, oil-based consistency. They are typically made from a blend of plant-based oils and may contain essential oils for added benefits or fragrance.
- Ingredients: Body oils are made from nourishing oils, such as jojoba, almond, coconut, or argan oil. These oils work to soften and moisturize the skin without clogging pores.
- Best for: Body oils are suitable for all skin types but can be especially beneficial for dry or mature skin. They are often used for massage because they glide well on the skin. Body oils can be applied directly to damp skin after a shower or bath to help lock in moisture or mixed with other moisturizers to enhance their hydrating properties.
Our Methodology
We researched the internet, online stores and social media for the most popular clean body lotions (along with some popular non-clean body lotions for context).
Each ingredient in every product was researched and analyzed for safety based on available public research. Where possible, sources for information are included.
Products are ranked from best to worst with an internal score based on the ingredient rankings.
Products are rated as follows…
This ranking is for the best of the best. Only exemplary brands will receive a ranking of best for any category.
This ranking is for brands that are typically quite good, but don’t go above and beyond like our best choices.
This ranking is for when we find something we find iffy. Not a good sign.
This ranking is reserved for the worst of the worst.
The Best Natural Body Lotions, Rated By Ingredients
Below is our vetted list of clean, non-toxic body moisturizers ranked from best to worst based on their ingredients.
Many of these products contained potential irritants or allergens, indicated with an asterisk. (*)
Products are ordered from best to worst, based on an internal algorithm that scores products based on their individual ingredients.
This is not a rating based on the product’s actual performance, only the ingredients.
Natural Body Lotions Rated: Best
Buttah
This product contains only one ingredient: organic shea butter. A good choice for those looking for a plain shea butter.
Ingredients
Osmia
The main ingredients of this product are organic shea butter, jojoba oil, rosemary oil, and organic babassu oil—a more eco-friendly alternative to palm oil. Because of the short and simple list of organic ingredients, we give this product a top rating.
Ingredients
Rose Mira Organics
Organic coconut oil makes up the base of this product, along with organic mango seed butter and candelilla wax. It’s scented with an unspecified blend of essential oils.
Ingredients
Badger
With a 100% organic list of ingredients, the main ones being jojoba, olive and pomegranate oils, we give this product a top rating.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Nourish Organic
With a base of organic shea butter and oils (coconut, sunflower, rose hip), this product is full of natural and organic ingredients and is 100% vegan. It does have natural fragrance, however.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Dr. Bronner
Dr. Bronner’s body moisturizer is made with all organic ingredients, with the base being water, coconut oil and jojoba oil. This is a 100% vegan product as well.
Ingredients
OSEA
With mainly organic ingredients (the main ingredients of the product are oils like sunflower, jojoba) and only one potential irritant, this product gets a great rating.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Natural Body Lotions Rated: Good
Butter Me Up Organics
This body moisturizer is not organic nor vegan, but still uses 100% natural ingredients. The main ingredients are oils (grape seed, coconut) along with shea butter and mango seed butter. It’s scented with essential oils.
Ingredients
Replenix
This is the only glycolic acid moisturizer we looked at. It has a simple list of non-organic ingredients. Because it’s not organic we can only give it a “good” rating, but there are no ingredients of concern.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Christina Moss Naturals
The main ingredient in this product is organic aloe. Alongside that, we have organic apricot oil. It’s scented with essential oils, namely citrus. There’s only one ingredient we consider iffy.
Emulsifying wax gets an iffy rating because it can be made of either vegetable wax or a petroleum-based wax, and the exact makeup does not need to be disclosed. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Farmstead Apothecary
This product’s main ingredient is water, along with organic safflower seed oil, vegetable emulsifying wax and sunflower seed oil. It is a scented product using unidentified natural fragrances.
We consider “natural fragrance” to be an “Iffy” ingredient simply because it is a blanket term for unknown fragrance ingredients. Because these are natural fragrances, the main concern is skin irritation or allergic reaction, but this shouldn’t be a concern if you aren’t prone to these issues.
Pentylene glycol has shown evidence of being an irritant. Studies show that it can cause contact dermatitis, which indicates that Pentylene Glycol is a sensitizing ingredient and can be considered as an allergen. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Babo Botanicals
Water, organic safflower and sunflower oils are the main ingredients in this product. The only iffy ingredient is emulsifying wax, the reason being that it’s a blanket term that hides what is truly in the wax. It’s unlikely that the wax is anything harmful, but since it’s not a fully organic product, we can only give it a good rating.
There is some concern that tocopheryl acetate is at risk of being contaminated with hydroquinone, a known human carcinogen. While we believe this risk to be small, we consider tocopheryl acetate an iffy ingredient. (source)
Ingredients
Acure
This lotion is not organic. However, the list of ingredients is all-natural, and has only one “iffy” ingredient that is okay because it’s only bad when included with other ingredients that are iffy.
Glyceryl Laurate is a penetration enhancer, making it an ingredient of concern if included with other ingredients that may be unsafe. (source)
Ingredients
Ursa Major
Organic aloe and sunflower seed oils are the main ingredients of this product. Not all ingredients are organic, and it’s scented with several essential oils.
The EU’s SCSS considers sweet orange oil to be an ingredient of high concern of causing allergic contact dermatitis. (source)
Benzyl alcohol is listed by the The European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) as a well-recognized consumer allergen. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
Shea Moisture
This product has a clean list of non-organic ingredients, with only one of potential concern.
Cetrimonium chloride is caused reproductive toxicity in a study of female rats. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
100% Pure
This product is not organic, however the list of ingredients is all natural. The main ingredient is coco butter, along with avocado oil, shea butter, argan oil, aloe, and candelilla wax).
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
True Botanicals
Ethylhexylglycerin can be a mild skin and eye irritant. Extra care should be taken when using products with this ingredient around the face. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Burt's Bees Baby
This product has a number of potential irritants indicated with an asterisk below. If you’re someone with sensitive skin, consider a moisturizer with less irritants.
We consider “natural fragrance” to be an “Iffy” ingredient simply because it is a blanket term for unknown fragrance ingredients. Because these are natural fragrances, the main concern is skin irritation or allergic reaction, but this shouldn’t be a concern if you aren’t prone to these issues.
Sodium benzoate is a chemical preservative. Reports show that people with sensitive skin should not use products which contain sodium benzoate as it may induce contact allergy. (source)
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 7*
Natural Body Lotions Rated: Iffy
Cetaphil
Ceteth-10 is an ethoxylated ingredient, meaning it can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known human carcinogen. (source)
Steareth-20 is an ethoxylated ingredient, meaning it can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known human carcinogen. (source)
This product has dimethicone, a petroleum-derived ingredient in the silicones family. Silicone makes the skin feel like it’s being hydrated, but it’s simply a short-term effect. Silicones can trap debris in the pores, cause acne and congestion, and can accumulate on the skin.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Adamia
This product has dimethicone, a petroleum-derived ingredient in the silicones family. Silicone makes the skin feel like it’s being hydrated, but it’s simply a short-term effect. Silicones can trap debris in the pores, cause acne and congestion, and can accumulate on the skin.
There is some concern that tocopheryl acetate is at risk of being contaminated with hydroquinone, a known human carcinogen. While we believe this risk to be small, we consider tocopheryl acetate an iffy ingredient. (source)
PEG-20 Stearate is an ethoxylated ingredient, meaning it can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known human carcinogen. (source)
Ethylhexylglycerin can be a mild skin and eye irritant. Extra care should be taken when using products with this ingredient around the face. (source)
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 1*
Eucerin
Pentylene glycol has shown evidence of being an irritant. Studies show that it can cause contact dermatitis, which indicates that Pentylene Glycol is a sensitizing ingredient and can be considered as an allergen. (source)
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
This product has dimethicone, a petroleum-derived ingredient in the silicones family. Silicone makes the skin feel like it’s being hydrated, but it’s simply a short-term effect. Silicones can trap debris in the pores, cause acne and congestion, and can accumulate on the skin.
There is some concern that tocopheryl acetate is at risk of being contaminated with hydroquinone, a known human carcinogen. While we believe this risk to be small, we consider tocopheryl acetate an iffy ingredient. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
La Roche-Posay
This product has dimethicone, a petroleum-derived ingredient in the silicones family. Silicone makes the skin feel like it’s being hydrated, but it’s simply a short-term effect. Silicones can trap debris in the pores, cause acne and congestion, and can accumulate on the skin.
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 3*
Augustinus Bader
Sodium benzoate is a chemical preservative. Reports show that people with sensitive skin should not use products which contain sodium benzoate as it may induce contact allergy. (source)
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 3*
Era Organics
While this product does have many organic ingredients, there are too many we consider “iffy” to give it a good rating.
Emulsifying wax gets an iffy rating because it can be made of either vegetable wax or a petroleum-based wax, and the exact makeup does not need to be disclosed. (source)
There is some concern that tocopheryl acetate is at risk of being contaminated with hydroquinone, a known human carcinogen. While we believe this risk to be small, we consider tocopheryl acetate an iffy ingredient. (source)
Sodium benzoate is a chemical preservative. Reports show that people with sensitive skin should not use products which contain sodium benzoate as it may induce contact allergy. (source)
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Ethylhexylglycerin can be a mild skin and eye irritant. Extra care should be taken when using products with this ingredient around the face. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 4*
Natural Body Lotions Rated: Avoid
Replenix
This product has a number of ingredients of concern and for this reason, we can’t recommend it.
Polysorbate 60 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.
The main concern with cyclopentasiloxane is that it’s an environmental toxin. For this reason, in 2020 the EU restricted this ingredient in wash-off products at a maximum concentration of up to 0.1%. (source)
This product has dimethicone, a petroleum-derived ingredient in the silicones family. Silicone makes the skin feel like it’s being hydrated, but it’s simply a short-term effect. Silicones can trap debris in the pores, cause acne and congestion, and can accumulate on the skin.
Retinol is a controversial ingredient and there are a number of conflicting studies on the ingredient. Read our full description on retinol above to see why we give it a bad rating.
Polysorbate 20 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.
PEG-100 Stearate can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, a possible human carcinogen and known human carcinogen respectively.
Phenoxyethanol is a common preservative. Typically, this ingredient is considered safe in products not meant for babies. An EU study found skin irritation in animal studies even when exposed to very low amounts. (source)
Ingredients
Potential irritants: 2*
Kim
Thank you so much for this list. Very sensitive skin allergies. I’ve used Aubrey Organics unscented lotion for decades and they are no longer making. I’m back to square one when it comes to finding a lotion. I’m about to try Nourish Organic unscented. Fingers crossed. It just takes weeks to make sure I have no reaction to anything. I will try a link or two that is here. Thanks again.