The Best Natural Face Moisturizer (15+ Products Ranked!)

17 min reading time
Today we’ll be looking at…
  1. The problem with conventional moisturizers.
  2. The benefits of using a non-toxic moisturizer.
  3. The concerning ingredients in conventional moisturizers.
  4. Why “hypoallergenic” and “fragrance-free” are tricky terms.
  5. Debunking the “dermatologist-recommended” myth.
  6. The best non-toxic moisturizers analyzed by ingredients.

For many, moisturizers are an essential part of their skincare routine. Applying a face moisturizer daily to keep the skin hydrated is the first line of defense in keeping healthy, glowing skin—regardless of your age, skin type, or gender.

As our understanding of skincare ingredients has evolved, so too has our desire for clean and non-toxic products. But when it comes to finding the perfect non-toxic moisturizer for your face, the search can be overwhelming. Where do you begin, and how do you sift through the ingredient lists that read like a science experiment?

Not all moisturizers are created equal, and in a world filled with synthetic ingredients, questionable additives, and environmentally harmful components, finding the perfect non-toxic moisturizer for your face can feel like a daunting task.

For this reason, we took a deep dive into the world of facial moisturizers—specifically, the ingredients—to create an objective, science-based list of the best clean and safe facial moisturizers.

Want to jump directly to our recommended clean moisturizers?

If you want to skip directly to our list of the best-rated moisturizers, click here.

The Problem With Conventional Moisturizers

Moisturizing is a crucial step in any skincare routine, but it’s important to know that not all moisturizers are safe to use.

While many conventional moisturizers contain synthetic and potentially harmful ingredients, non-toxic moisturizers prioritize natural and safe ingredients to nourish your skin.

So why should you care about using a non-toxic moisturizer? Let’s explore the benefits and considerations of making this important skincare choice.

The Risks of Harmful Ingredients in Conventional Moisturizers

Since moisturizer is something you’ll probably be putting on your face daily, it’s very important that the product you use is clean and free from potential toxins.

Some of the potential downsides to using a conventional moisturizer with harsh ingredients include:

  • Skin Irritation – Some synthetic ingredients and fragrances in conventional moisturizers can cause skin irritation, redness, and rashes, especially for sensitive skin.
  • Endocrine Disruption – Certain chemicals, such as parabens and phthalates, can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues.
  • Allergic Reactions – Allergens in some moisturizers can trigger allergic reactions, resulting in skin discomfort and inflammation.
  • Long-Term Health Concerns – Repeated exposure to certain toxic ingredients in skincare products may contribute to long-term health issues, including cancer and organ toxicity.

Benefits of Using a Non-Toxic Moisturizer

Thankfully, many brands have stepped up to the plate in recent years and we now have a wide selection of non-toxic and clean face moisturizers available.

There are a lot of great reasons to switch to a clean moisturizer, including:
  • More Skin-Friendly – Non-toxic moisturizers often contain natural, plant-based, and organic ingredients that are gentle on the skin and less likely to cause irritation or sensitivity.
  • Environmentally Conscious – Choosing non-toxic skincare products helps minimize environmental impact, as many harmful chemicals found in conventional products can pollute water sources and disrupt ecosystems.
  • Transparent Ingredients – Non-toxic brands are more likely to be transparent about their ingredient lists, allowing you to make informed decisions about what you put on your skin.
  • Nourishing and Healing – Non-toxic moisturizers are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential oils that provide deep hydration, promote skin regeneration, and support a healthy complexion.

Ingredients of Concern in Conventional Face Moisturizers

None of these ingredients were found in the products we looked at, but are still important to know about.

Synthetic Fragrances

Fragrance is a a very common reason for skin irritation, and a 2008 study found that 83% of drugstore creams contained fragrance or a fragrance-related allergen.

The term fragrance, when used in products, 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 just list “fragrance” and not the individual ingredients that go into the fragrance.

Some of these 3059 ingredients have been linked to health effects like cancer, allergies, reproductive issues, and more.

We always considered undisclosed, non-natural fragrance an ingredient to avoid.

Parabens

Some moisturizers may include a collection of chemical preservatives known as parabens. This contentious ingredient has been investigated due to its potential connection to endocrine disruption and breast cancer. You’re not likely to find parabens under the ingredient list of any brand of truly clean moisturizer.

Parabens—commonly labeled as methylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben, or propylparaben on product packaging—are often used as preservatives. An in-vitro study on human scalp skin tissue found that these chemicals can potentially be absorbed through the scalp and have been linked to various health issues, such as cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity.

Preservatives play an essential role in beauty and personal care products. Any product containing water, aloe, or essential oils requires preservation, as mold and bacterial growth can pose risks. This growth may sometimes be undetectable by the naked eye.

Because there are products with safer alternatives, like sodium benzoate and phenoxyethanol, we don’t recommend using products with parabens.

Chemical Sunscreens

Moisturizers with SPF often use chemical sunscreens to achieve sun production.

If your moisturizer has SPF, make sure it’s not using a chemical sunscreen to achieve this. For an in-depth look at these chemicals, see our sunscreen guide.

Chemical sunscreen active ingredients include:

  • Oxybenzone
  • Octinoxate
  • Homosalate
  • Octocrylene
  • Avobenzone
  • Octisalate

A 2020 study showed that these active ingredients found their way into the bloodstream after just a single application. What’s worse is that the amount is accumulative—the more these chemicals are applied, the more they end up in the bloodstream.

The exact effect these chemicals might have on the human body is unclear, but since alternatives exist in the form of physical sunscreens, there aren’t a lot of good reasons to use products with these ingredients.

Mineral Oil

The mineral oils used in cosmetic products are derived from petroleum.

Mineral oil is occlusive—meaning it seals off the skin, preventing air, water or anything else to get in or out. This

Your skin will look good at first (because the lines are stretched out), but in the long run various cellular processes will work somewhat less efficiently,says Dr. Jetske Ultee, research physician in Cosmetic Dermatology. “Eventually, this will lead to your skin not being able to protect itself, and you find yourself in a vicious circle; your skin quickly dries out if you don’t put any cream on, and so you keep applying it.

Silicone

Brands love putting silicone in their moisturizers because it makes them feel smooth when applying them, and they’re very cheap. They’re also used to make the product water-resistant.

In terms of human health, they’re most likely non-toxic. However, the Government of Canada declares some types of silicones—namely siloxane—as a danger to the environment.

However, there are a few good reasons not to use products with silicone in them:

  • They form a barrier on the skin that can trap sweat, debris, bacteria, sebum, and other debris.
  • If you’re acne-prone, this can lead to breakouts.
  • They’re not actually helping your skin in any way. It’s more of a band-aid solution that makes the product feel better going on but isn’t doing anything for your skin.
  • They can make your skin drier. Since the silicone clogs the pores, it can throw the skin’s natural hydrating process off. This is on top of the silicone’s seal that prevents moisture from getting in.
  • They block other ingredients from absorbing. If you’re layering products as many do, the silicone barrier will prevent them from absorbing into the skin.
  • They’re hard to remove. If you do a typical cleansing routine, it might not even be enough to get all of the silicone off of your skin.

Hydroquinone

As a result of contamination, hydroquinone can sometimes be found as an impurity in tocopherol acetate (Vitamin E). This chemical is commonly marketed as a skin-lightening cream. Hydroquinone can sometimes be found in face moisturizers and carries risks enough that we don’t recommend it.

Banned in the European Union, Japan & Australia and restricted for use in Canada. This chemical is linked to skin cancer, ochronosis (a skin condition where the skin turns blueish-grey), and permanent eye damage if exposure to the eye occurs.

In a 2020 animal study, researchers revealed that hydroquinone damaged the outer layer of the skin and caused swelling in the cells of deeper skin layers, as well as in the cells around the oil-producing glands and hair roots.

In a presentation at the 2022 Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) annual meeting in Portland, Oregon, scientists discovered that being exposed to hydroquinone significantly increased the risk of getting melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer, and all types of skin cancer combined.

Artificial Dyes

Synthetic dyes have long been contentious in the beauty and personal care industry. In the past, these dyes were made from coal tar, but most are now derived from petroleum.

The potential risks of dyes in non-rinse-off products, like moisturizers, remain uncertain compared to their use in food. One noticeable ingredient in some of these products is FD&C Yellow #6.

This coloring agent can be contaminated with benzidine, a cancer-causing compound. A 2018 in-vitro study discovered that Yellow #6, along with other dyes, contributed to inflammation and can cause allergic reaction.

Generally, we at Better Goods advise steering clear of products containing artificial dyes.

Retinyl Palmitate

You might see this labeled as retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinyl linoleate, and retinoic acid. Known as retinoids—a synthetic form of vitamin A—this ingredient is credited with both treating acne and reducing wrinkles.

This ingredient is controversial—there have been a number of conflicting studies published about the safety and efficacy of retinyl palmitate.

A 2012 U.S. National Toxicology Program study explored the risks of retinyl palmitate. Mice were exposed to artificial sunlight for four hours daily and treated with creams containing retinyl palmitate or retinoic acid. These mice developed more tumors at a faster rate compared to mice exposed to sunlight without cream treatment or those treated with just carrier cream.

Another 2005 study investigated the effects of treating mouse lymphoma cells with retinyl palmitate and exposing them to UV-A light, which penetrates deeper into the skin than UV-B rays. Researchers found that the mutation frequency of cells—a factor leading 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.

However, there is some pushback in the opposite direction.

An independent analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found no evidence that sunscreens containing retinyl palmitate (vitamin A) cause cancer in humans.

The American Academy of Dermatology heavily criticized the studies and those using them as proof of danger of retinyl palmitate. In fact, retinyl palminate, among other vitamin A derivates, has been touted as an antioxidant and cancer fighting substance time and again.

The jury is out on this ingredient, but right now we believe in the adage of “better safe than sorry”, and will not recommend products with retinyl palmitate.

Ingredients With Contamination Concerns

Some of the products we looked at had ingredients that have a risk of contamination with harmful chemicals.

These ingredients include all ethoxylated ingredients, namely those starting with polysorbate-, PEG-, and Ceteareth-.

These ingredients are at risk of being contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known human carcinogen. For this reason, we give them an “iffy” rating.

Beware of the Hypoallergenic & Fragrance-Free Claims

If you see the term “hypoallergenic” on a moisturizer, take it with a grain of salt.

While the term is typically used to indicate that the product has no ingredients that will cause allergic reactions, there’s an issue: the term is unregulated by the FDA. This means that manufacturers don’t need to support these claims when they put them on the packaging.

According to Dr. Steve Xu, assistant professor, and dermatologist at Northwestern’s Feinberg School of Medicine, he and some of his colleagues tested the 100 best-selling moisturizers from Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

The results were shocking—they found that 83% of the products labeled “hypoallergenic” actually contained a potential allergenic chemical.

Not only that but nearly half—45 percent—of the products they tested were labeled “fragrance-free” but contained some form of fragrance.

Another more general study of 187 children’s products labeled hypoallergenic or otherwise safe for children’s skin found that 89 percent of them contained a potential allergen.

There’s really only one thing you can do to protect yourself as a consumer—try to understand which ingredients your skin reacts to and avoid products that contain those ingredients.

Debunking the “Dermatologist Recommended” Myth

The terms “dermatologist-recommended” and “dermatologist-tested” are often used on skincare product labels as a marketing tactic to convince consumers that the product is safe, effective, and backed by professionals. However, this label doesn’t necessarily guarantee the product’s quality or suitability for your skin.

Why these terms can be misleading…
  • The terms aren’t regulated – There is no universally accepted or regulated standard for using the “dermatologist recommended” or “dermatologist tested” labels. Companies may use this term without having to provide proof of their claim, making it difficult for consumers to determine the legitimacy of the endorsement.
  • Biased recommendations – Some dermatologists may have financial ties or partnerships with specific skincare brands. In these cases, their recommendations may be biased, which means they might endorse a product based on their affiliation rather than the product’s efficacy.
  • Individual skin needs differ – Skincare is highly individual, and what works for one person may not work for another. A product recommended by a dermatologist for one patient might not necessarily be suitable for your specific skin concerns or sensitivities.

What About Alcohol?

The presence of alcohol in skincare is another controversial topic.

There are two types of alcohol: denatured alcohol derived from petroleum products, and fatty alcohols derived from natural materials like coconut and nuts.

The bad alcohols people dislike are denatured alcohols—because they’re drying. On top of that, they’re a potential irritant for those with sensitive skin.

It’s worth noting that some studies like this one have concluded that alcohol is skincare is safe to use.

Typically, the higher the concentration (indicated by being higher in the ingredients list) is more problematic for those sensitive to it.

So, why do brands use denatured alcohol in their products? The alcohol gives the product a cooling or tightening sensation that oily-skinned gals might find pleasant. This is even though it’s stripping away the skin’s natural—and important—oils. Alcohols are also used as preservatives.

On the other hand, natural fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol, made from coconuts, and stearyl alcohol, made from coconut or vegetable oil, can have a positive effect on the skin. These fatty alcohols are typically used as emulsifiers in skin care products, creating a thick, pleasant texture.

If you have sensitive skin, be careful—fatty alcohols can also be irritating to your skin, and if you’re acne-prone, they can cause breakouts. But overall, they’re generally a good ingredient, not a bad one.

Face Oils vs. Moisturizers: Understanding the Differences

Face oils and moisturizers serve distinct purposes and function differently in your skincare routine. Understanding their unique characteristics can help you make informed choices for your skin’s individual needs.

Face Oils

Face oils act as occlusives, retaining and sealing moisture in your skin while providing nourishment. These oils should contain a blend of essential fatty acids (EFAs) or omegas and are entirely water-free. Additionally, they can include a mixture of essential oils that help balance the skin and provide therapeutic benefits.

Face oils work in harmony with our skin’s natural barrier, reaching the core of the epidermis. Contrary to popular belief, individuals with oily or acne-prone skin can benefit from using face oils. These oils help restore balance to the skin and do not clog pores like other moisturizers that contain emulsifiers and waxes.

It’s important to note that face oils and essential oils aren’t regulated by the FDA, and do carry a significant risk of allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

Moisturizers

Moisturizers, available as lotions or creams, consist of oil and water. This composition allows them to not only hydrate your skin with their water content but also seal in the moisture with the oil. The primary difference between creams and lotions is their consistency; creams are heavier and contain more oil. Moisturizers act as humectants, drawing moisture to the skin.

What’s The Difference Between Body Lotion & Face Moisturizer?

You might be wondering why you can’t buy a big bottle of body lotion and use it on your face. It’s true that—in general—body lotions are much more inexpensive than face moisturizers. So, what’s the difference?

The skin on the face and the body varies in thickness, sensitivity, and oil production. The facial skin is thinner and more sensitive, while the skin on the body is thicker and more resilient.

Additionally, the face has a higher concentration of sebaceous (oil) glands, making it more prone to acne and other skin issues. As a result, facial skin requires a different level of care and hydration compared to body skin.

  • Body Lotion – Body lotions are generally formulated to provide deep hydration to the skin on the body. They tend to be thicker and richer in consistency, often containing occlusive agents like shea butter and petroleum to lock in moisture. Not so great to put on the face.
  • Face Moisturizer – Face moisturizers are designed to address the unique needs of facial skin. They are typically lighter in texture and less greasy, allowing easy absorption without clogging pores. Additionally, face moisturizers often contain active ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides to target specific skin concerns like aging, acne, and hyperpigmentation.

In short, body lotions and face moisturizers aren’t interchangeable, and if you want to avoid acne and other potential issues, you shouldn’t try putting them on your face.

Our Methodology

We researched the internet, online stores, and social media for the most popular clean moisturizers (along with some popular non-clean moisturizers 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.

Brands are rated as follows:

BEST

This ranking is for the best of the best. Only exemplary brands will receive a ranking of best for any category.

GOOD

This ranking is for brands that are typically quite good, but don’t go above and beyond like our best choices.

IFFY

This ranking is for when we find something we find iffy. Not a good sign.

AVOID

This ranking is reserved for the worst of the worst.

The Best Clean Moisturizers, Rated By Ingredients

Below is our vetted list of clean, non-toxic moisturizers ranked from best to worst based on their ingredients. Every product contained at least one potential irritant, denoted 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.

Clean Moisturizers Rated: Best

Rating: Best

Nourish Organic

Ultra Hydrating Face Cream
Ultra Hydrating Face Cream
Rating: Best
Price: $24.99 ($14.7 per oz)

Containing mostly organic ingredients, it’s no surprise that this moisturizer tops our list based on its ingredients. Nourish Organic’s Ultra Hydrating Face Cream is rich without feeling overwhelming, thanks to its fast-absorbing qualities. A combination of its organic ingredients, such as Moroccan argan oil and pomegranate seed oil, hydrates the skin while leaving a light scent.

The only “iffy” ingredient in our favorite moisturizer is denatured SD-Alcohol 38 (also known as ethanol), which is known to be a penetration enhancer. In other words, it increases the skin absorption of other ingredients. However, without other ingredients of concern, this is not a concern.

Denatured SD-Alcohol 38 (also known as ethanol) is known to be a penetration enhancer, increasing the skin absorption of other ingredients. In the absence of other ingredients of concern, this is not dangerous.

Ingredients

  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Organic Alcohol (Denatured SD-Alcohol 38B),
  • Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate,
  • Organic Glycerin,
  • Organic Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Diheptyl Succinate,
  • Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer,
  • Betaine,
  • Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil (Punica Granatum Seed Oil),
  • Organic Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter),
  • Organic Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil),
  • Organic Orange Peel Oil (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil)*,
  • Organic Cupuacu Butter (Theobroma Grandiflorum Butter),
  • Honeysuckle Flower Extract (Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract),
  • Honeysuckle Extract (Lonicera Caprifolium Extract),
  • Organic Acai Berry Fruit Oil (Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil),
  • Organic Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil)*,
  • Isoamyl Laurate,
  • Isoamyl Cocoate,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Sodium Phytate,
  • Water,
  • Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Citric Acid

Potential irritants: 1*

Clean Moisturizers Rated: Good

Rating: Good

The Outset

Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturizer
Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturizer
Rating: Good
Price: $44 ($25.88 per oz)

The Outset’s daily moisturizer uses a combination of clean and natural moisturizing ingredients in the formula. Like all products from the brand, it’s fragrance-free and vegan, and contains no ingredients we recommend avoiding.

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)

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)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Pentylene Glycol*,
  • Glycerin,
  • Ethylhexyl Palmitate,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Squalane,
  • Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide,
  • Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera Oil),
  • Safflower Seed Oil (Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil),
  • Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima Oil),
  • Hops Extract (Humulus Lupulus Extract),
  • Sunflower Extract (Helianthus Annuus Extract),
  • Sunflower Seed Wax (Helianthus Annuus Seed Wax),
  • Rosemary Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract),
  • Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Damson Seed Oil (Prunus Insititia Seed Oil),
  • Rice Extract (Oryza Sativa Extract),
  • Bladderwrack/Seaweed Extract (Fucus Vesiculosus Extract),
  • Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate,
  • Edelweiss Extract (Leontopodium Alpinum Extract),
  • Soybean Oil (Glycine Soja Oil),
  • Jojoba Esters,
  • Dicaprylyl Ether,
  • Diheptyl Succinate,
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • Carbomer,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Citric Acid,
  • Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Polyglycerin-3,
  • Caprylyl Glycol*,
  • Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer,
  • Tocopheryl Acetate*,
  • Tocopherol,
  • Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate,
  • Potassium Hydroxide,
  • Potassium Sorbate,
  • Sodium Benzoate*,
  • Sodium Formate,
  • Sodium Glycolate,
  • Sodium Hydroxide*,
  • Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate
Rating: Good

The Outset

Restorative Niacinamide Night Cream
Restorative Niacinamide Night Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $54 ($31.76 per oz)

Clean and safe vegan ingredients make up the formulation of this night cream. You’ll find niacinamide and backuchiol in the ingredients list, both of which are trendy skincare ingredients from natural sources.

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)

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

  • Water,
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Cetyl Palmitate,
  • Propanediol,
  • Hydrogenated Sunflower Seed Oil Polyglyceryl-3 Esters,
  • Glycerin,
  • Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Myristyl Myristate,
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate,
  • Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate,
  • Hydrogenated Sunflower Seed Oil Glyceryl Esters,
  • Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera Biennis Oil),
  • Pentylene Glycol*,
  • Grape Seed Oil (Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil),
  • Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil,
  • Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima Oil),
  • Niacinamide,
  • Cassia Angustifolia Seed Polysaccharide,
  • Bakuchiol,
  • Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Orange Fruit Extract (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract)*,
  • Lemon Fruit Extract (Citrus Limon Fruit Extract),
  • Sugar Cane Extract (Saccharum Officinarum Extract),
  • Sugar Maple Extract (Acer Saccharum Extract),
  • Bilberry Fruit Extract (Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract),
  • Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract),
  • Soybean Oil (Glycine Soja Oil),
  • Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables,
  • Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters,
  • Jojoba Esters,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Microcrystalline Cellulose,
  • Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer,
  • Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate,
  • Acacia Senegal Gum,
  • Diheptyl Succinate,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Cellulose Gum,
  • Saccharide Isomerate,
  • Panthenol,
  • Caprylyl Glycol*,
  • Tocopherol,
  • Tocopheryl Acetate*,
  • Dextran,
  • Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2,
  • Citric Acid,
  • Sodium Citrate,
  • Sodium Phytate
Rating: Good

Weleda

Skin Food
Skin Food
Rating: Good
Price: $18.99 ($7.6 per oz)

The aptly-named Skin Food by Weleda is a rich, thick cream that feeds your dry skin with nourishing plant oils, lanolin, beeswax, and more. As an intense moisturizer, don’t expect harsh scents – instead, you’ll get a unique blend of natural orange, lavender, and vanilla notes.

If you have sensitive skin, there are essential oils included in its ingredients list that are recognized as human allergens. This product also contains sweet almond oil, which is not suitable for those with a nut allergy.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Lanolin*,
  • Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil)*,
  • Beeswax (Cera Alba),
  • Alcohol,
  • Fatty Acid Ester,
  • Glycerin,
  • Limonene*,
  • Wild Pansy Extract (Viola Tricolor Extract),
  • Hydrolyzed Beeswax,
  • Sorbitan Olivate,
  • Rosemary Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract),
  • Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Calendula (Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract),
  • Arginine,
  • Zinc Sulfate,
  • Fragrance (Essential Oil Blend)*,
  • Linalool*,
  • Geraniol*,
  • Citral*,
  • Coumarin*

Potential irritants: 6*

Rating: Good

Drunk Elephant

Protini™ Polypeptide Moisturizer
Protini™ Polypeptide Moisturizer
Rating: Good
Price: $68 ($40.24 per oz)

For a moisturizer that does more of what it’s asked for, take a look at Drunk Elephant’s Protini Polypeptide Cream. In addition to moisturizing the skin, its formula reduces the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and signs of sun damage, for revived and younger-looking skin. Its main ingredient – signal peptide complex – are made up of amino acids, which form proteins in the skin to plump, firm, and restore bounce.

Note that this product contains polysorbate 60, which can become a potential human carcinogen when contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. Preservatives are also included, specifically phenoxyethanol and sodium benzoate, which are safe but may affect those with sensitive skin.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate,
  • Glycerin,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Cetearyl Olivate,
  • Sorbitan Olivate,
  • Marula Seed Oil (Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil),
  • Bacillus/Soybean/Folic Acid Ferment Extract,
  • White Water Lily Root Extract (Nymphaea Alba Root Extract),
  • sh-Oligopeptide-1,
  • sh-Oligopeptide-2,
  • sh-Polypeptide-1,
  • sh-Polypeptide-9,
  • sh-Polypeptide-11,
  • Copper Palmitoyl Heptapeptide-14,
  • Heptapeptide-15 Palmitate,
  • Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7,
  • Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1,
  • Alanine,
  • Arginine,
  • Glycine,
  • Histidine,
  • Isoleucine,
  • Phenylalanine,
  • Proline,
  • Serine,
  • Threonine,
  • Valine,
  • Acetyl Glutamine,
  • Coconut Alkanes,
  • Coco-Caprylate/Caprate,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Aspartic Acid,
  • Linoleic Acid,
  • Linolenic Acid,
  • Lecithin,
  • Butylene Glycol,
  • Polyvinyl Alcohol,
  • Sodium Lactate,
  • Sodium PCA,
  • PCA*,
  • Sorbitan Isostearate,
  • Carbomer,
  • Polysorbate 20,
  • Polysorbate 60,
  • Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer,
  • Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Isomalt,
  • 1,2-Hexanediol,
  • Caprylyl Glycol*,
  • Chlorphenesin,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Tocopherol,
  • Sodium Benzoate*,
  • Phenylpropanol,
  • Glyceryl Caprylate,
  • Comfrey Culture Extract (Symphytum Officinale Callus Culture Extract)

Potential irritants: 4*

Rating: Good

RMS Beauty

Raw Coconut Cream
Raw Coconut Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $18 ($7.2 per oz)

Believe it or not, but there is a moisturizer out there that contains only one, pure ingredient. RMS Beauty’s Raw Coconut Cream is made up of 100% raw and unrefined organic coconut oil. This multitasking cream can remove the most stubborn of makeup, as well as moisturize the face and body. Without using heat or chemical solvents to extract the coconut oil, the result is a natural moisturizer that helps soften and soothe the skin.

Although going completely natural can be a positive thing, coconut oil may cause breakouts for acne-prone skin. If you are one to have skin blemishes, it’s recommended to avoid products with this ingredient.

Ingredients

  • Organic Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)
Rating: Good

Acure

Brightening Day Cream
Brightening Day Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $16.99 ($9.99 per oz)

A 2-in-1 solution for dull and dry skin comes in this petite tube from Acure. Their Brightening Day Cream evens out the skin tone to make way for a brighter appearance. With cica and argan oil, as well as pomegranate and blackberry, this cream moisturizes and protects even when a small amount is applied.

Included in its ingredient list is glyceryl laurate – a penetration enhancer, which can be a concern if included with other ingredients that are unsafe. Other ingredients are tocopheryl acetate, which has been linked to a possible increase of photocarcinogenesis (skin cancer), and clove oil, which has shown to be a contact allergen in patch tests.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Safflower Seed Oil (Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil),
  • Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera Oil),
  • Cocoa Butter (Theobroma Cacao Butter),
  • Cetyl-Stearyl Alcohol,
  • Glyceryl Stearate Citrate,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Glyceryl Caprylate,
  • Glycerin,
  • Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Orange Peel Oil (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil)*,
  • Glyceryl Laurate*,
  • Olive Oil (Olea Europaea Fruit Oil),
  • Mandarin Peel Oil (Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil)*,
  • Sodium Levulinate,
  • D-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate,
  • Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera Biennis Oil),
  • Organic Calendula Flower Extract (Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Potassium Sorbate,
  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Clove Bud Oil (Eugenia Caryophyllus Bud Oil)*,
  • Organic Acai Berry Fruit Extract (Euterpe Oleracea Extract),
  • Organic Blackberry Fruit Extract (Rubus Fruticosus Fruit Extract),
  • Organic Pomegranate Extract (Punica Granatum Extract),
  • Organic Rose Hip Fruit Extract (Rosa Canina Fruit Extract)*,
  • Organic Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Organic Rooibos Extract (Aspalathus Linearis Extract),
  • Cica Culture (Centella Asiatica Meristem Culture),
  • Echinacea Cell Culture (Echinacea Angustifolia Meristem Cell Culture),
  • Marrubium Vulgare Meristem Cell Culture,
  • Chlorella Pyrenoidosa Extract,
  • Organic Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil),
  • Xanthan Gum

Potential irritants: 4*

Rating: Good

Youth to the People

Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $48 ($24 per oz)

Fun product names tend to get all the attention, but what’s inside of Youth to the People’s Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream jar deserves all the focus. Air-whipped to lightweight perfection, this cream is filled with superfoods like kale, spinach, and green tea for all your antioxidant and vitamin needs. This moisturizer absorbs into the skin quick, making suitable to use before applying makeup, or it can be mixed with your go-to foundation for an added boost of hydration.

Pentylene glycol, which is an ingredient in this moisturizer, has shown evidence of being an irritant that can cause contact dermatitis. Other ingredients of concern are ethylhexylglycerin, chemical preservatives (phenoxyethanol and sodium benzoate), and unknown natural fragrance.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Lecithin,
  • Glycerin,
  • Tocopheryl Acetate*,
  • Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid),
  • Panthenol,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer,
  • Butylene Glycol,
  • Kale Leaf Extract (Brassica Oleracea Leaf Extract),
  • Spinach Extract (Spinacia Oleracea Extract),
  • Green or White Tea Leaf Extract (Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract),
  • Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Alfalfa Extract (Medicago Sativa Extract),
  • Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Natural Fragrance*,
  • Hydroxyethylcellulose,
  • Pentylene Glycol*,
  • Ethylhexylglycerin*,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Potassium Sorbate,
  • Sodium Benzoate*,
  • Chlorophyll

Potential irritants: 3*

Rating: Good

Mineral Fusion

Intense Hydration Face Cream
Intense Hydration Face Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $24.99 ($7.35 per oz)

Perfectly plumped skin is possible with the application of the Intense Hydration Face Cream from Mineral Fusion. They’re all about the plump: the concoction of shea butter, rosehip oil, and mineral water was designed to achieve skin that’s full of bounce. Natural antioxidants and soothing ingredients like aloe and cucumber are also added for a glowing and smooth feel.

Apart from the inclusion of a common preservative, phenoxyethanol, this product also has ethylhexylglycerin. This can be a mild skin and eye irritant and should be applied with extra care, especially around the face. While the ingredient list mentions natural fragrance, the exact ingredients are unknown, which may be a concern if you’re prone to skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Vegetable Glycerin,
  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Hyaluronic Acid,
  • Polysorbate 60,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Ethylhexyl Palmitate,
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate,
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Hematite Extract,
  • Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5,
  • Organic Lavender Extract (Lavandula Angustifolia Extract),
  • Panthenol,
  • Organic Flax Seed Oil (Linum Usitatissimum Seed Oil),
  • Organic Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter),
  • Organic Rose Hip Oil (Rosa Canina Oil)*,
  • Organic Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract),
  • Borage Oil (Borago Officinalis Seed Oil),
  • Allantoin,
  • Organic Calendula Flower Extract (Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract),
  • Arnica Extract (Arnica Montana Flower Extract)*,
  • Organic Green or White Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf Extract),
  • Organic Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Carbomer,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Sodium PCA,
  • Organic Purple Coneflower Extract (Echinacea Purpurea Extract),
  • Ethylhexylglycerin*,
  • Natural Fragrance*

Potential irritants: 3*

Rating: Good

Ursa Major

Golden Hour Recovery Cream
Golden Hour Recovery Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $48 ($30.57 per oz)

Are you having trouble finding a cream that works for your dry, sensitive or neglected skin? Golden Hour Recover Cream from Ursa Major is a fast-absorbing face cream that you can slather on when your skin is craving moisture. With sea buckthorn that’s rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids, and sunflower to help skin retain moisture, you won’t find any of the cheap and impractical ingredients.

For its aroma and to help reduce the appearance of redness, the cream has rose flower oil added to its formula. Out of all the ingredients, this is the only one that can sometimes be irritating for some with sensitive skin.

Ingredients

  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Organic Sunflower Seed Oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Glyceryl Stearate Citrate,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate,
  • Organic Glycerin,
  • Meadowfoam Seed Oil (Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil),
  • Galactoarabinan,
  • Cetyl Palmitate,
  • Undecylenic Glycerides,
  • Octyldodecanol,
  • Black Currant Seed Oiil (Ribes Nigrum Seed Oil),
  • Sunflower Seed Oil Unsaponifiables (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil),
  • Balloon Vine Extract (Cardiospermum Halicacabum Flower/Leaf/Vine Extract),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Rosemary Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract),
  • Organic Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract (Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract),
  • Sandalwood Oil (Santalum Spicatum Wood Oil),
  • Organic Rose Flower Oil (Rosa Damascena Flower Oil)*,
  • Organic Neroli Flower Oil (Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Oil),
  • Palmarosa Oil (Cymbopogon Martinii Oil),
  • Organic Calendula Flower Extract (Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract),
  • Sodium Phytate,
  • Sodium Anisate,
  • Glyceryl Caprylate,
  • Sclerotium Gum,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Alcohol,
  • Citric Acid

Potential irritants: 1*

Rating: Good

OSEA

Atmosphere Protection Cream
Atmosphere Protection Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $48 ($24 per oz)

Protect your skin from environmental pollutants and moisturize it at the same time with Osea’s Atmosphere Protection Cream. It’s light enough to use under sunscreen or makeup, making it the perfect everyday moisturizer. Although this California-made cream is filled with seaweed, shea butter, and omega-rich oils, the formula is neither sticky or oily. It will also dry quickly, which is suitable to apply just before bed and before you head out the door.

Grapefruit peel oil can be found in a bottle of this cream, which is composed of several terpenes including limonene, geraniol, and linalool. Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants, and are often associated with contact dermatitis.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Organic Algae Extract (Laminaria Japonica Extract),
  • Coco-Caprylate/Caprate,
  • Organic Macadamia Gympie Nut Oil (Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil),
  • Sorbitan Olivate,
  • Cetearyl Glucoside*,
  • Organic Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter),
  • Organic Jojoba Seed Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil),
  • Organic Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima Oil),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Organic Calendula Flower Extract (Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract),
  • L-Lysine Lauroyl Methionate,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Laminaria Saccharina Algae Extract,
  • Gingko Biloba Leaf Extract,
  • Organic Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Organic Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Oil),
  • Organic Geranium Flower Oil (Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil),
  • Magnesium Aluminum Silicate,
  • Organic Grapefruit Peel Oil (Citrus Grandis Peel Oil)*,
  • Potassium Sorbate,
  • Glycine

Potential irritants: 1*

Rating: Good

Pai Skincare

The Anthemis (Pai Chamomile and Rosehip Calming Day Cream)
The Anthemis (Pai Chamomile and Rosehip Calming Day Cream)
Rating: Good
Price: $59 ($34.71 per oz)

It’s not easy to find the right moisturizer for sensitive skin, but if you do, you would want to hold it close to your heart. Pai Skincare’s Chamomile and Rosehip Calming Day Cream was designed for the sensitive skin in mind, including eczema and rosacea-prone skin. Using the CO2 extracts of organic chamomile and rosehip, this cream is all about its soothing properties to calm flare-ups, redness, and irritation.

Rosehip oil contains lactic acid, which can cause skin irritation in some people.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Organic Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil),
  • Organic Jojoba Seed Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil),
  • Organic Safflower Seed Oil (Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil),
  • Lactobacillus Ferment,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Glycerin,
  • Organic Rose Hip Fruit Extract (Rosa Canina Fruit Extract)*,
  • Organic Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter),
  • Organic Orange Fruit Water (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Water),
  • Cetearyl Glucoside*,
  • Organic Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Manuka Oil (Leptospermum Scoparium Branch/Leaf Oil),
  • Sodium Levulinate,
  • Tocopherol,
  • Organic Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Oil),
  • Sodium Anisate,
  • Organic Geranium Flower Oil (Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil),
  • Lactic Acid*,
  • Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate,
  • Organic Rosemary Oil (Rosmarinus Officinalis Oil)

Potential irritants: 3*

Rating: Good

Andalou Naturals

1000 Roses Beautiful Day Cream - Sensitive
1000 Roses Beautiful Day Cream - Sensitive
Rating: Good
Price: $26.99 ($15.88 per oz)

Starting the day off with a lather of this Andalou Naturals cream may as well be like having a bunch of roses to greet you good morning. The 1000 Roses Beautiful Day Cream for sensitive skin features a key ingredient, alpine rose stem cells, for hydration and vitality to nourish and soothe. Other equally beneficial ingredients include pomegranate to tone and aloe vera to revive the skin’s hydro lipid barrier. You won’t have to worry about that greasy texture after applying this on, and expect a gentle and light feel instead.

Potential irritant in this product is ethylhexylglycerin, which can be irritating on the eyes and skin when not applied carefully.

Ingredients

  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Water,
  • Vegetable Glycerin,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Organic Rose Hip Oil (Rosa Canina Oil)*,
  • Dicaprylyl Carbonate,
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • Stearic Acid,
  • Biosaccharide Gum-1,
  • Allantoin,
  • Olive Squalane,
  • Organic Pomegranate Seed Oil (Punica Granatum Seed Oil),
  • Plant Stem Cells (Alpine Rose, Malus Domestica, Solar Vitis),
  • Organic BioActive Berry Complex,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract,
  • Frankincense / Boswellin Extract (Boswellia Serrata Extract),
  • Panthenol,
  • Ethylhexyl Palmitate,
  • Lecithin,
  • Organic Corn Starch (Zea Mays Starch),
  • Organic Rose Flower Distillate (Rosa Damascena Flower Distillate),
  • Organic Cranberry Juice (Vaccinium Macrocarpon Juice),
  • Organic Green or White Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf Extract),
  • Organic Rooibos Extract (Aspalathus Linearis Extract),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Phenethyl Alcohol,
  • Ethylhexylglycerin*,
  • Rose Isolates*,
  • Vanilla Isolates,
  • Organic Geranium Flower Oil (Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil),
  • Organic Orange Peel Oil (Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil)*

Potential irritants: 3*

Rating: Good

Everyone

Nourishing Face Moisturizer
Nourishing Face Moisturizer

Editor’s Note: As of April 2021, this product appears to be discontinued.

Natural ingredients? Check. Cruelty free? Double check. For an all-round clean and good moisturizer, this one from Everyone may be for you. It’s also synthetic fragrance-free, so you won’t get any of that painfully obvious fake scents. The Nourishing Face Moisturizer has a mild hypoallergenic formula that replenishes and softens using argan oil, hyaluronic acid, and kombucha extracts.

Unfortunately, this product has dimethicone – a petroleum-derived ingredient in the silicones family. While silicones can make the skin feel hydrated, it can also trap debris in the pores, which causes acne and congestion. Other ingredients to note are phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Babassu Oil (Orbignya Oleifera Oil),
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Vegetable Glycerin,
  • Cetearyl Glucoside*,
  • Sorbitan Olivate,
  • Organic Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil),
  • Cetyl Palmitate,
  • Sorbitan Palmitate,
  • Cetyl Esters,
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • Stearyl Alcohol,
  • Hydrolyzed Quinoa Protein,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Panthenol,
  • Oat Beta Glucan,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment,
  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Organic Matricaria Extract (Chamomilla Recutita Extract),
  • Organic Calendula Flower Extract (Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract),
  • Organic Green or White Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf Extract),
  • Mango Seed Butter (Mangifera Indica Seed Butter),
  • Organic Cocoa Butter (Theobroma Cacao Butter),
  • Allantoin,
  • Asiastic Pennywort Extract (Centella Asiatica Extract),
  • Essential Oil Blend (Bergamot, Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Ylang-ylang, Fennel),
  • Soybean Oil (Glycine Soja Oil),
  • Carrot Root Extract (Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract),
  • Beta-Carotene,
  • Organic Olive Oil (Olea Europaea Fruit Oil),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Sclerotium Gum,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Sodium Phytate,
  • Dimethicone,
  • Hydroxyethylcellulose,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Ethylhexylglycerin*

Potential irritants: 2*

Rating: Good

Derma E

Hydrating Day Cream
Hydrating Day Cream
Rating: Good
Price: $29.50 ($14.75 per oz)

When a cream mentions hyaluronic acid on its packaging label, you know it’s a good sign. Derma E’s Hydrating Day Cream has this key ingredient, which acts as a thirst quencher for the skin, leaving long-lasting moisture. In addition to having nature’s ‘moisture magnet’, this cream also contains vitamin C-Ester, which plumps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles to keep you youthful-looking.

With all its benefits, this product tocopheryl acetate, which is at risk of being contaminated with hydroquinone – a human carcinogen. Fortunately, the risk is small, but it’s still something to look out for. Other concerning ingredients are phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, and natural fragrance.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Stearic Acid,
  • Glycerin,
  • Glyceryl Stearate SE,
  • Glyceryl Stearate Citrate,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Organic Green or White Tea Extract (Camellia Sinensis Tea Leaf Extract),
  • Ascorbyl Palmitate,
  • Panthenol,
  • Tocopheryl Acetate*,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Witch Hazel Extract (Hamamelis Virginiana Extract),
  • Organic Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Organic Jojoba Seed Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil),
  • Allantoin,
  • Diheptyl Succinate,
  • Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer,
  • Potassium Sorbate,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Ethylhexylglycerin*,
  • Natural Fragrance*

Potential irritants: 1*

Clean Moisturizers Rated: Iffy

Rating: Iffy

Kiehl’s

Ultra Facial Cream
Ultra Facial Cream
Rating: Iffy
Price: $32 ($18.82 per oz)

Potentially concerning ingredients include a few common preservatives; stearate (PEG-8), a known human carcinogen when contaminated with other ingredients; and sweet almond oil, which is not suitable for someone with a nut allergy.

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Glycerin,
  • Cyclohexasiloxane,
  • Squalane,
  • Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane*,
  • Sucrose Stearate,
  • Stearyl Alcohol,
  • PEG-8 Stearate,
  • Myristyl Myristate,
  • Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate,
  • Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil),
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima Oil),
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Rice Bran Oil (Oryza Sativa Bran Oil),
  • Olive Oil (Olea Europaea Fruit Oil),
  • Chlorphenesin,
  • Stearic Acid,
  • Palmitic Acid,
  • Disodium EDTA,
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer,
  • Carbomer,
  • Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil)*,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Ethylhexylglycerin*,
  • Sodium Hydroxide*,
  • Tocopherol,
  • Soybean Oil (Glycine Soja Oil),
  • Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract,
  • Myristic Acid,
  • Hydroxypalmitol Sphinganine,
  • BHT,
  • Salicylic Acid*,
  • Citric Acid

Potential irritants: 4*

Rating: Iffy

Sukin

Facial Moisturizer
Facial Moisturizer

Ceteareth-20 is an ethoxylated ingredient, meaning it can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known human carcinogen. (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)

Benzyl alcohol is listed by the The European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) as a well-recognized consumer allergen. (source)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Sesame Seed Oil (Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil),
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Glycerin,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Ceteareth-20,
  • Rose Hip Oil (Rosa Canina Oil)*,
  • Cocoa Butter (Theobroma Cacao Butter),
  • Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter),
  • Jojoba Seed Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil),
  • Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima Oil),
  • Wheat Germ Oil (Triticum Vulgare Germ Oil),
  • Tocopherol,
  • Field Horsetail Leaf Extract (Equisetum Arvense Leaf Extract),
  • Burdock Extract (Arctium Lappa Extract),
  • Nettle Leaf Extract (Urtica Dioica Leaf Extract),
  • Tangerine Peel Oil (Citrus Tangerina Peel Oil)*,
  • Mandarin Peel Oil (Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil)*,
  • Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia Oil),
  • Vanillin,
  • Vanilla Extract (Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract),
  • Grapefruit Extract (Citrus Paradisi Extract),
  • Citric Acid,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Benzyl Alcohol*,
  • Limonene*,
  • Linalool*

Potential irritants: 6*

Rating: Iffy

La Mer

Creme
Creme

Citronellol is naturally occurring but can also be made synthetically. This ingredient falls into the list of allergens under the EU legislation. It may cause pigmentary anomalies, known as melanosis faciei feminae. This ingredient may also cause contact allergy. (source)

Benzyl Salicylate has a potential of developmental toxicity at specified high concentrations. (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)

The ingredient “fragrance” means that there is a mixture of several essential oils or synthetic or natural chemicals that makeup the scent of the product. According to European and US legislation, the ingredients of the fragrance do not have to be revealed on the product’s ingredients list. Because these ingredients are not disclosed, we always consider this a “bad” ingredient.

Ingredients

  • Algae Extract (Laminaria Japonica Extract),
  • Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum),
  • Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum),
  • Glycerin,
  • Isohexadecane,
  • Microcrystalline Wax,
  • Lanolin Alcohol*,
  • Lime Fruit Extract (Citrus Aurantifolia Fruit Extract),
  • Sesame Seed Oil (Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil),
  • Eucalyptus Leaf Oil (Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil),
  • Sesame Seed Powder (Sesamum Indicum Seed Powder),
  • Alfalfa Seed Powder (Medicago Sativa Seed Powder),
  • Sunflower Seedcake (Helianthus Annuus Seedcake),
  • Sweet Almond Seed Meal (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Meal),
  • Sodium Gluconate,
  • Potassium Gluconate,
  • Copper Gluconate,
  • Calcium Gluconate,
  • Magnesium Gluconate,
  • Zinc Gluconate,
  • Magnesium Sulfate,
  • Paraffin,
  • Tocopheryl Succinate,
  • Niacin,
  • Water,
  • Beta-Carotene,
  • Decyl Oleate,
  • Aluminum Distearate,
  • Octyldodecanol,
  • Citric Acid,
  • Cyanocobalamin,
  • Magnesium Stearate,
  • Panthenol,
  • Limonene*,
  • Geraniol*,
  • Linalool*,
  • Hydroxycitronellal*,
  • Citronellol*,
  • Benzyl Salicylate*,
  • Citral*,
  • Sodium Benzoate*,
  • Alcohol (Denatured),
  • Fragrance

Potential irritants: 7*

Clean Moisturizers Rated: Avoid

Rating: Avoid

L’Oréal Paris

Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care
Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care

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.

Triethanolamine (TEA) has been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. (source)

This product contains one or more parabens. These are preservative linked to endocrine disruption and is associated with the proliferation of breast cancer cells. (link)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Glycerin,
  • Alcohol (Denatured),
  • Dimethicone,
  • Isononyl Isononanoate*,
  • Silanetriol,
  • Carbomer,
  • Triethanolamine*,
  • Dimethiconol,
  • Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice),
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Silica Dimethyl Silylate,
  • Hyaluronic Acid,
  • Madake Extract (Phyllostachys Bambusoides Extract),
  • Caprylyl Glycol*,
  • Tetrasodium EDTA,
  • Citric Acid,
  • Biosaccharide Gum-1,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Panthenol,
  • Menthoxypropanediol,
  • Ethylhexyl Palmitate,
  • Butylene Glycol,
  • Hexylene Glycol,
  • Tocopherol,
  • Potassium Sorbate,
  • Sorbic Acid,
  • Methylparaben*,
  • Sodium Benzoate*,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Chlorphenesin,
  • Blue 1 (CI 42090),
  • Linalool*,
  • Limonene*,
  • Perfume

Potential irritants: 8*

Rating: Avoid

CeraVe

AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen SPF 30
AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen SPF 30

Homosalate is a chemical sunscreen linked with endocrine disruption, organ system toxicity, and reproductive organ disruption in both males and females. (source)

Octinoxate is a chemical sunscreen linked with endocrine disruption, organ system toxicity, and reproductive organ disruption in both males and females. (source)

Octocrylene is a chemical sunscreen linked with endocrine disruption, organ system toxicity, and reproductive organ disruption in both males and females. (source)

A study found a link between behentrimonium methosulfate and possible reproductive toxicity in mice. (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.

This product contains one or more parabens. These are preservative linked to endocrine disruption and is associated with the proliferation of breast cancer cells. (link)

Ingredients

  • Homosalate,
  • Meradimate (Methyl Anthranilate),
  • Octinoxate,
  • Octocrylene,
  • Zinc Oxide,
  • Water,
  • Niacinamide,
  • Glycerin,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Behentrimonium Methosulfate*,
  • Dimethicone,
  • BHT,
  • Ceramide NP,
  • Ceramide AP,
  • Ceramide EOP,
  • Carbomer,
  • Triethoxycaprylylsilane,
  • Methylparaben*,
  • Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate,
  • Cholesterol,
  • Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate,
  • Disodium EDTA,
  • Propylparaben,
  • Hydroxyethylcellulose,
  • Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid,
  • Phytosphingosine,
  • Xanthan Gum

Potential irritants: 1*

Rating: Avoid

Clinique

Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Cream

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.

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

  • Water,
  • Glycerin,
  • Dimethicone,
  • Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum),
  • Tridecyl Stearate,
  • Tridecyl Trimellitate,
  • Polyglyceryl-10 Pentastearate,
  • Behenyl Alcohol,
  • Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate,
  • Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract),
  • Barley Extract (Hordeum Vulgare Extract),
  • Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate,
  • Caprylyl Glycol*,
  • Propylene Glycol Dicaprate,
  • Sunflower Seedcake (Helianthus Annuus Seedcake),
  • PEG-100 Stearate,
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Butylene Glycol,
  • Tromethamine,
  • Carbomer,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Yellow 5 (CI 19140),
  • Yellow 6 (CI 15985),
  • Red 33 (CI 17200)

Potential irritants: 2*

Rating: Avoid

Embryolisse

Lait-Creme Concentre Multi-Function Nourishing Moisturizer
Lait-Creme Concentre  Multi-Function Nourishing Moisturizer

Triethanolamine (TEA) has been shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. (source)

Steareth-10, an ethoxylate, can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a human carcinogen. (source)

Polyacrylamide is controversial because acrylamide, which is a decomposition residue of polyacrylamide, is a demonstrated neurotoxin in humans and a carcinogen in animal tests. Acrylamide is banned in the EU. (link)

Perfume is a blanket term that hides the exact chemical makeup of the fragrance used in this product. We never recommend products that have chemical fragrance: read here for a full explanation.

Laureth-7 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a likely human carcinogen. (source)

Propylene glycol acts as a penetration enhancer, increasing skin absorbtion of other ingredients in a product. When none of the other ingredients in a product is potentially dangerous, this isn’t a concern. (source)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum),
  • Stearic Acid,
  • Palmitic Acid,
  • Glyceryl Stearate SE,
  • Triethanolamine*,
  • Beeswax (Cera Alba),
  • Cetyl Palmitate,
  • Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter),
  • 1,2-Hexanediol,
  • Caprylyl Glycol*,
  • Steareth-10,
  • Polyacrylamide,
  • C13-14 Isoparaffin,
  • Perfume,
  • Laureth-7,
  • Propylene Glycol*,
  • Tropolone,
  • Hydrolyzed Soy Protein,
  • Aloe (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice)

Potential irritants: 2*

Rating: Avoid

Aveeno

Active Naturals Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer
Active Naturals Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer

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.

Isoceteth-20 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, possible human carcinogens.

Polyacrylamide is controversial because acrylamide, which is a decomposition residue of polyacrylamide, is a demonstrated neurotoxin in humans and a carcinogen in animal tests. Acrylamide is banned in the EU. (link)

The ingredient “fragrance” means that there is a mixture of several essential oils or synthetic or natural chemicals that makeup the scent of the product. According to European and US legislation, the ingredients of the fragrance do not have to be revealed on the product’s ingredients list. Because these ingredients are not disclosed, we always consider this a “bad” ingredient.

Laureth-7 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a likely human carcinogen. (source)

Ingredients

  • Salicylic Acid*,
  • Water,
  • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Dimethicone,
  • Methyl Gluceth-20,
  • PPG-10 Cetyl Ether,
  • Bis-Phenylpropyl Dimethicone,
  • Arachidyl Alcohol,
  • Behenyl Alcohol,
  • Soybean Extract (Glycine Soja Extract),
  • Glycerin,
  • Isoceteth-20,
  • Polyacrylamide,
  • Cetearyl Glucoside*,
  • Arachidyl Glucoside,
  • C13-14 Isoparaffin,
  • Ethylene/Acrylic Acid Copolymer,
  • Fragrance,
  • Laureth-7,
  • Disodium EDTA,
  • BHT,
  • Sodium Hydroxide*,
  • Citric Acid

Potential irritants: 2*

Rating: Avoid

Neutrogena

Sensitive Oil-Free Moisture Ultra-Gentle Facial Moisturizer
Sensitive Oil-Free Moisture Ultra-Gentle Facial Moisturizer

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.

Cyclomethicone is linked to several adverse health effects., including being found to interfere with ovulation in animal studies. (source)

PEG-10 Soy Sterol, being an ethoxylated ingredient, is at risk of being contaminated with 1,4-dioxane. (source)

PEG-100 Stearate can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, a possible human carcinogen and known human carcinogen respectively.

Diazolidinyl Urea is a formeldahyde-releasing preservative banned for use in cosmetics in Japan and Sweden. (source)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Glycerin,
  • Ethylhexyl Palmitate,
  • Dimethicone,
  • Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum),
  • Cyclomethicone,
  • Soybean Sterols (Glycine Soja Sterols),
  • Isopropyl Isostearate,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • PEG-10 Soy Sterol,
  • Glyceryl Stearate,
  • PEG-100 Stearate,
  • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate,
  • Carbomer,
  • Tetrasodium EDTA,
  • Sodium Hydroxide*,
  • Diazolidinyl Urea,
  • Ethylparaben,
  • Methylparaben*,
  • Propylparaben

Potential irritants: 2*

Rating: Avoid

Fresh

Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Moisturizer
Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Moisturizer

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)

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.

Steareth-2 is an ethoxylated ingredient. The risk of such ingredients is that 1,4-dioxane—a carcinogen—could be a byproduct of the exhalation process. (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)

Polyacrylamide is controversial because acrylamide, which is a decomposition residue of polyacrylamide, is a demonstrated neurotoxin in humans and a carcinogen in animal tests. Acrylamide is banned in the EU. (link)

Laureth-7 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a likely human carcinogen. (source)

The ingredient “fragrance” means that there is a mixture of several essential oils or synthetic or natural chemicals that makeup the scent of the product. According to European and US legislation, the ingredients of the fragrance do not have to be revealed on the product’s ingredients list. Because these ingredients are not disclosed, we always consider this a “bad” ingredient.

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)

Citronellol is naturally occurring but can also be made synthetically. This ingredient falls into the list of allergens under the EU legislation. It may cause pigmentary anomalies, known as melanosis faciei feminae. This ingredient may also cause contact allergy. (source)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Glycerin,
  • Ethylhexyl Isononanoate,
  • Butylene Glycol,
  • Pentylene Glycol*,
  • Propanediol,
  • Caprylyl Methicone,
  • Isostearyl Isostearate,
  • Dimethicone,
  • Behenyl Alcohol,
  • Nylon-6/12,
  • Steareth-2,
  • Xanthan Gum,
  • Plum Oil (Prunus Domestica Oil),
  • Rose Flower Water (Rosa Damascena Flower Water),
  • Algin,
  • Ashitaba Extract (Angelica Keiskei Extract),
  • Acacia Senegal Gum,
  • Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract),
  • Rose Flower Oil (Rosa Damascena Flower Oil),
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Tocopheryl Acetate*,
  • Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer,
  • Steareth-21,
  • Polyacrylamide,
  • C13-14 Isoparaffin,
  • Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer,
  • Tromethamine,
  • Dimethiconol,
  • Laureth-7,
  • Tetrasodium EDTA,
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • BHT,
  • Caramel,
  • Serine,
  • Fragrance,
  • Phenoxyethanol*,
  • Citronellol*,
  • Geraniol*

Potential irritants: 4*

Rating: Avoid

Olay

Original Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Moisturizer
Original Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Moisturizer

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)

Laureth-7 can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a likely human carcinogen. (source)

Polyacrylamide is controversial because acrylamide, which is a decomposition residue of polyacrylamide, is a demonstrated neurotoxin in humans and a carcinogen in animal tests. Acrylamide is banned in the EU. (link)

PEG-100 Stearate can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, a possible human carcinogen and known human carcinogen respectively.

Benzyl alcohol is listed by the The European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) as a well-recognized consumer allergen. (source)

This product contains one or more parabens. These are preservative linked to endocrine disruption and is associated with the proliferation of breast cancer cells. (link)

Ingredients

  • Water,
  • Glycerin,
  • Isohexadecane,
  • Niacinamide,
  • Isopropyl Isostearate,
  • Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate,
  • Nylon-12,
  • Dimethicone,
  • Panthenol,
  • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride,
  • Tocopheryl Acetate*,
  • Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4,
  • Carob Fruit Extract (Ceratonia Siliqua Fruit Extract),
  • Sodium Hyaluronate,
  • Dimethiconol,
  • C13-14 Isoparaffin,
  • Cetearyl Glucoside*,
  • Cetearyl Alcohol,
  • Sodium PEG-7 Olive Oil Carboxylate,
  • Stearic Acid,
  • Palmitic Acid,
  • C12-13 Pareth-3,
  • Laureth-7,
  • Stearyl Alcohol,
  • Cetyl Alcohol,
  • Behenyl Alcohol,
  • Disodium EDTA,
  • Polyethylene,
  • Sodium Acrylates Copolymer,
  • Polyacrylamide,
  • Citric Acid,
  • Sodium Hydroxide*,
  • PEG-100 Stearate,
  • Titanium Dioxide,
  • Mica,
  • Benzyl Alcohol*,
  • Methylparaben*,
  • Ethylparaben,
  • Propylparaben,
  • Fragrance

Potential irritants: 4*

Download our free swap guide.
A cheatsheet of 50+ clean alternatives for your whole house. 
Thank you for subscribing!

2 Comments

  • Avatar photo
    Rebecca Alexander

    I brought a jar of CeraVe Moisturing Cream in Walmart. Reading the ingredients on the jar, it doesn’t mention it having parabens. I bought it but on doing more research found it does have parabens! Should I return it because of false advertising??

  • Avatar photo
    Nancy Paddock

    Just saw your list!!!!!! I have used some of these. You are right! THANK YOU????❤️

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *