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The Cleanest Moisturizer: 13 Best Natural Face Moisturizers for a Healthy Glow
Finding the perfect non toxic facial moisturizer with organic ingredients is a bit like a Goldilocks story... You don't want a product that leaves your face too dry or too oily. And you want a product made with natural, non-toxic ingredients, thank you very much!
You want balanced, soft, and healthy skin that's "just right."
We've created this guide to help you navigate the tricky waters of finding a natural face cream or oil moisturizer. Let our expert research and countless hours of real-life testing of these products help you make the best choice for your skin, whether you have dehydrated skin, normal skin, or oil skin.
Perfectly moisturized skin, here we come!
For more natural beauty tips, dive into our comprehensive guides on clean makeup and natural skincare brands.
What Is A Clean Moisturizer?
A clean moisturizer typically refers to a product formulated with non-toxic, natural, and organic ingredients, free from harmful chemicals like
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parabens
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propylene or butylene glycols
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petroleum
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sulfates
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PEGs
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TEA
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DEA
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phthalates
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GMOs
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silicones
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pesticides
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artificial dyes
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synthetic fragrances
They aim to hydrate and nourish the skin without potentially harmful additives. So look for products labeled as "clean," "natural," "organic," or "non-toxic" to find a clean moisturizer for your skincare routine.
The rationale behind avoiding these substances is rooted in concerns about their potential health impacts, such as being endocrine disruptors or increasing the risk of certain cancers. Choosing a clean moisturizer, especially one certified organic, is one of the best clean beauty tips as it , minimize exposure to these questionable ingredients, aligning with a healthier skincare routine and overall wellness.
This approach is also more environmentally friendly, as it avoids the use of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
For more in-depth information and research on the effects of these chemicals and additives in beauty products, reputable sources such as the Environmental Working Group can be consulted.
Instead, clean and natural face moisturizers rely on ingredients like these:
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Plant-derived oils: like marula, hemp, coconut oils or grape seed, known for their moisturizing and antioxidant properties.
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Herbal extracts: such as chamomile and calendula offer soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits.
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Essential fatty acids and vitamins: found in ingredients like black currant and sea buckthorn, enhance skin's elasticity and firmness.
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Natural humectants: like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate ensure deep hydration.
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Ceramides and peptides: are also common, aiding in skin barrier repair and reducing signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.
By incorporating these natural ingredients, natural moisturizers can effectively moisturize the skin without relying on synthetic chemicals or additives that may cause irritation or adverse reactions.
W've identified our top choices across four categories— day Care, night Care, anti aging and best budget find for various skin needs.
So what are the best non-toxic face moisturizers to hydrate and nourish your skin with clean, natural and organic ingredients.
Here Is the Full List of Clean and Natural Moisturizer Brands
OSEA | Shop here*
MÁDARA | Shop here*
AIME | Shop here*
Alpyn Beauty | Shop here*
100% Pure | Shop here*
PAI | Shop here*
Paula's Choice | Shop here*
Ursa Major | Shop here*
Juice Beauty | Shop here*
True Botanicals | Shop here*
Annmarie | Shop here*
Drunk Elephant |Shop here*
Weleda | Shop here*
The Best Clean Moisturizer for Day Time
Daytime brings fun, sun, and movement! We need a moisturizer that can stand up to all of that. Here are the ones that pass our tests and that we can attest to:
OSEA - Atmosphere Protection Cream (Top Pick)
The OSEA Atmosphere Protection Cream is a lightweight daily moisturizer designed to hydrate and protect the skin against environmental stressors. Formulated with a blend of organic seaweed, shea butter, and essential oils, it creates a breathable barrier for your skin, locking in moisture and shielding it from pollutants and climate changes. Ideal for all skin types, this cream provides a perfect base for makeup application, leaving your skin smooth and radiant.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $79.95
Skin Type: All skin types
Key Ingredients:
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Seaweed Marine Blend: Combines brown and green seaweed extracts with sea water and marine exopolysaccharide to soothe dry skin, balance the microbiome, and enhance complexion.
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Elfdock: Shields skin from environmental pollutants, minimizes stress-related damage, and boosts skin elasticity.
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Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Enhances skin hydration and strengthens the skin's barrier.
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Shea Butter: Revitalizes dry skin, leaving it smooth and deeply moisturized.
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Undaria Seaweed: Restores the skin’s moisture barrier and increases smoothness, making skin softer and more supple.
Certifications:
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Vegan-certified by PETA
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Leaping Bunny
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Climate Neutral certified
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Ocean Positive verified
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Signees of EWG's The Compact for Global Production of Safe Health and Beauty Products
Image @OSEA
MÁDARA - SOS Hydra Recharge Cream*
MÁDARA's SOS Hydra Recharge Cream is a deeply hydrating moisturizer, particularly suitable for dehydrated and stressed skin. Infused with natural ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Northern peony, it helps to soothe, replenish moisture, and protect the skin from environmental damage. The lightweight, yet potent formula makes it an excellent choice for restoring skin's radiance and vitality.
Location: Latvia
Pricing: $45.95
Skin Type: Any skin tone, but especially dehydrated and stressed skin
Key Ingredients:
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Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice: Soothes and hydrates the skin.
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Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil: Nourishes and protects the skin with its rich vitamin content.
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Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil: Balances oil production and deeply moisturizes.
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Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water: Calms the skin and offers a subtle fragrance.
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Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea-buckthorn) Fruit Extract: Rich in antioxidants, promotes skin regeneration.
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Sodium Hyaluronate: Provides deep hydration and plumps the skin.
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Linum Usitatissimum (Flax/Linseed) Seed Extract: Maintains skin hydration and smoothness.
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Paeonia Lactiflora (Peonia) Root Extract: Soothes and brightens the skin.
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Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract: Detoxifies and revitalizes the skin.
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Vegan, Gluten-free, Nut free, Cruelty-free, Soy free
Certifications:
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Certified organic ingredients by Ecocert
Image @ MAdara
AIME - The Simple Cream*
AIME's The Simple Cream is designed to cater to all skin types, including sensitive skin. This cream focuses on minimalism and efficacy, using a blend of natural ingredients to hydrate and soothe the skin. It is enriched with prebiotics and probiotics to balance the skin's microbiome, ensuring a healthy, radiant complexion.
Location: France
Pricing: $35
Skin Type: All skin types, even extremely sensitive skin
Key Ingredients:
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Glycerin: A natural moisturizer that aids in skin metabolism.
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Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba): Provides a natural, dry touch to the skin.
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Lactobacillus & Ferments: Utilizes deactivated lactobacilli and fermented extracts (like pomegranate, reishi, and shiitake) for skin benefits.
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Punica Granatum Fruit Ferment Extract: Enhances skin with fermented pomegranate extract.
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Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil (Hemp): Rich in omega-6 and omega-3, nourishing the skin.
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Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide: A prebiotic derived from sugar to support skin health.
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Bisabolol: Offers soothing properties from plants.
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Sodium Hyaluronate: Natural hyaluronic acid for hydration.
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Ceramide NP: Restores the skin barrier.
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Tocopherol (Vitamin E): Provides antioxidant benefits.
Certifications:
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Contains 100% natural ingredients
Image @AIME
The Best Natural Moisturizer for Sensitive Dry Skin
For those with sensitive dry skin, finding the right moisturizer is almost like finding the secret to happiness. Natural moisturizers offer gentle yet effective hydration, perfect for skin that reacts easily. Here's a selection of natural moisturizers that provide soothing care without irritation.
Alpyn Beauty - PlantGenius Melt Moisturizer*
Alpyn Beauty's PlantGenius Melt Moisturizer is a nourishing facial cream formulated with wildcrafted and sustainably sourced ingredients. It is designed to deeply hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, featuring a blend of potent botanicals like bakuchiol and squalane. This cream is suitable for all skin types, particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
Location: Wyoming, U.S.
Pricing: $60
Skin Type: Sensitive skin
Key Ingredients:
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Sodium Hyaluronate & Hyaluronic Acid: Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin.
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Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract: Offers natural hydration and skin-smoothing benefits.
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Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice: Soothes and moisturizes the skin.
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Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil: Nourishes with vitamins and fatty acids.
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Centella Asiatica Meristem Cell Culture: Known for its healing properties.
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Squalane & Shea Butter: Provide deep moisturization and skin barrier support.
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Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil & Jojoba Seed Oil: Offer natural emollient properties.
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Bakuchiol: A natural alternative to retinol, known for its anti-aging benefits.
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Ceramide Ng & Vitamin C: Strengthen the skin barrier and provide antioxidant protection.
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Botanical Extracts: Including sage, arnica, borage, calendula, and chamomile for soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Certifications:
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Vegan friendly
Formulated without: Phenoxyethanol, Parabens, Formaldehyde Donors, MEA/DEA/TEA, Sulfates, Phthalates, Palm Ingredients, Synthetic Dyes, Colors and Fragrances, Petrochemicals, PEGs/PPGs, Metallic Aluminum, Triclosan, Talc, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Gluten, and Fragrance.
Image @Alpyn Beauty
Pure - Restorative Extra Rich Creme*
100% Pure's Restorative Sea Culture Extra Riche Créme is an intensely rich moisturizer designed for normal to dry skin types. Infused with highly nourishing ingredients like seaweed and shea butter, this cream deeply moisturizes while promoting a more elastic and hydrated complexion. It's perfect for restoring vitality and suppleness to dry skin.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $53
Skin Type: Normal, dry skin
Key Ingredients:
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Cassia Angustifolia: Hydrates and plumps the skin.
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Beta Glucan: Soothes skin and reduces redness.
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Alteromonas: Helps in reducing inflammation.
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Bacurri: Nourishes and softens the skin.
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Sea Buckthorn: Provides essential nutrients and moisture.
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Chamomile: Offers calming and soothing properties.
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Jojoba Oil: Moisturizes and helps balance skin’s natural oils.
Certifications:
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Cruelty Free
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California Green Business Certification
Image @100% Pure
PAI - Love + Haight Hydrating Moisturizer*
Pai Skincare's Avocado & Jojoba Hydrating Day Cream is specially crafted for dry, sensitive skin. This luxurious moisturizer combines the nourishing properties of avocado and jojoba oils to hydrate and soften the skin. Its gentle formula soothes and protects, making it an ideal choice for maintaining a healthy and radiant complexion throughout the day.
Location: London, UK
Pricing: $58
Skin Type: Dry, combination
Key Ingredients:
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Avocado Oil: Rich in Vitamins A, D, and E, it conditions and maintains the skin's moisture barrier.
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Jojoba Oil: Mirrors the skin's natural sebum, making it effective for smoothing and easy absorption.
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Safflower Oil: Nourishes and protects the skin.
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Shea Butter: Offers deep moisturization and softening benefits.
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Borage Oil: Known for its soothing and reparative properties.
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Rose Geranium, May Chang, and Jasmine Oils: Provide a natural fragrance and additional skin benefits.
Certifications:
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B Corp
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COSMOS Organic/Natural (Soil Association)
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Leaping Bunny
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Cruelty Free International
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The Vegan Society
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Intertek (Manufacturing standards)
Image @ Pai
The Best Clean Moisturizer for Night Care
At night, your skin deserves a moisturizer that works in harmony with its natural repair process. Clean night moisturizers offer deep hydration and restorative benefits, ensuring you wake up to refreshed and rejuvenated skin.
Paula's Choice - Intensive Repair Cream*
Paula's Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream is a rich, nourishing overnight moisturizer designed to combat aging skin. It's formulated to deeply hydrate, smooth fine lines, and brighten the complexion. With key ingredients like retinol, antioxidants, and emollients, this cream is ideal for normal to dry skin, especially for those concerned with signs of aging.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $38
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination
Key Ingredients:
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Retinol (Vitamin A): Known for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, backed by extensive research.
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Antioxidant Blend: Combats aging signs and protects against environmental damage.
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Hyaluronic Acid: Delivers instantly essential hydration and plumps the skin, retaining moisture effectively.
Certifications:
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Leaping Bunny
Image @Paula´s Choice
Ursa Major - Golden Hour Recovery Cream *
Ursa Major's Golden Hour Recovery Cream is a deeply hydrating moisturizer crafted to rejuvenate and soothe the skin. Ideal for all skin types, it is especially beneficial for stressed or irritated skin. The cream is infused with a blend of natural ingredients like sea buckthorn, black currant, and calendula, providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $46.80
Skin Type: All skin types
Key Ingredients:
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Sea Buckthorn: Packed with antioxidants and omega fatty acids, it enhances the skin's moisture barrier and hydration.
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Black Currant: Rich in fatty acids and Vitamin C, improving skin firmness and elasticity.
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Calendula: A source of carotenoids, providing soothing and conditioning benefits.
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Sunflower: High in linoleic acid, aiding in moisture retention.
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Sandalwood and Rose: Assist in hydration, toning, and reducing skin redness.
Certifications:
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Certified Plastic Negative
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Leaping Bunny
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B-Corp
Image @Ursa Major
The Best Clean Moisturizer for Aging Skin
Explore our selection of the best clean moisturizers for aging skin, carefully curated to address the unique needs of mature skin with natural, effective ingredients.
Juice Beauty - Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer*
Juice Beauty's Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer is a hydrating formula designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Infused with a proprietary blend of fruit stem cells and Vitamin C, it's incorporated into a resveratrol-rich grapeseed base to enhance skin tone and texture. This moisturizer is ideal for aging skin, aiming to promote a firmer, youthful complexion.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $63
Skin Type: Aging Skin
Key Ingredients:
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Vitamin C and Resveratrol-rich Grapeseed Base: Enhances skin brightness and provides antioxidant benefits.
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Proprietary Fruit Stem Cells Blend: Contains apple buds, grape buds, and lemon leaf, offering rejuvenation and protection.
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Tocopherol (Vitamin E): Offers antioxidant properties and helps in skin repair.
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Organic Borage Seed Oil: Nourishes the skin with essential fatty acids.
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Ho Wood Oil: Known for its calming and soothing properties.
Certifications:
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EWG Verified
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USDA certified organic
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CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers)
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Oregon Tilth
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Quality Assurance International
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Washington Department of Agriculture
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Leaping Bunny
Image @Juice Beauty
True Botanicals* - Renew Pure Radiance Facial Oil
True Botanicals' Pure Radiance Oil is a luxurious face oil designed for blemish-prone skin. It is formulated to balance and hydrate the skin without clogging pores, using a blend of natural ingredients such as grape seed and hemp seed oils. This product aims to clarify and smooth the skin while maintaining its natural moisture.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $110
Skin Type: All skin types, especially aging skin
Key Ingredients:
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids and 14 Seed Oils: Including grape, avocado, hemp, chia, and more, these oils deeply nourish and hydrate the skin.
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Algae Extract and Astaxanthin: Help to enhance skin hydration and youthfulness.
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Camellia, Marula, Borage, and Rosehip Seed Oils: Provide antioxidants and aid in skin rejuvenation.
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Raspberry, Evening Primrose, and Argan Oils: Offer additional nourishing and restorative benefits.
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The Ingredients are organic and wild-harvested
Certifications:
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PETA approved
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Leaping Bunny
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MADE SAFE
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EWG Verified
Image @ True Botanicals
Annmarie * Anti-Aging Facial Oil
Annmarie skincare products recommended by Dr. Mark Hyman, are designed to nurture the skin with natural formulations, ensuring effectiveness and purity.
The Anti-Aging Facial Oil is designed to rejuvenate and nourish the skin. It's a blend of natural, organic ingredients, including jojoba oil, chia seeds, and goji berries, known for their hydrating and antioxidant properties. This oil is perfect for dry or mature skin, aiming to enhance skin elasticity and provide a youthful glow.
Location: U.S.
Pricing: $105
Skin Type: Dry or mature skin
Key Ingredients:
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Jojoba Oil: Mimics the skin's natural oils for hydration and balance.
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Goji Berries: Rich in antioxidants, they support skin health.
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Plantago: Known for its soothing and healing qualities.
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Chia Seeds: Provide omega-3 fatty acids, aiding in skin nourishment.
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Herb-infused Oils: Including calendula, comfrey, and echinacea, known for their healing and soothing properties.
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Seed Oils: Such as hemp, rosehip, and red raspberry, offering rich nourishment and antioxidants.
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Essential Oils: Like sandalwood, vetiver, and jasmine, providing additional skin benefits and a pleasant scent.
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Organic & Non-GMO
Certifications:
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Leaping Bunny
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MADE SAFE
Image @Annmarie skincare
Drunk Elephant - Lala Retro Whipped Cream *
Drunk Elephant's Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream is a luxurious moisturizer designed to nourish and rejuvenate all skin types, especially dry skin. It combines a blend of African oils and a plant-derived ceramide complex, offering deep hydration and a barrier against moisture loss. This rich, whipped formula is perfect for restoring skin's firmness and elasticity.
Location: U.S. & Canada
Pricing: $62
Skin Type: Dry skin, any age
Key Ingredients:
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Triple-Ceramide Blend: Plant-derived ceramides that emulate natural skin ceramides, aiding in moisture retention and skin protection.
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5 African Oils: Marula, mongongo, baobab, kalahari melon, and ximenia oils provide nourishment, antioxidants, and hydration.
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Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer: Offers deep skin hydration and reduces fine lines.
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Fermentoil Green Tea Seed Extract: Delivers moisturization, antioxidants, and nourishment.
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Phytosphingosine: A lipid that soothes and restores the skin.
Certifications
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Leaping Bunny
Image @ Drunk Elephant
The Best Budget Natural Face Moisturizers
Discover our top pick for the best budget natural face moisturizer, offering quality hydration and nourishment without breaking the bank.
Weleda - Sensitive Care Facial Cream*
Weleda's Sensitive Care Facial Cream is specially formulated for sensitive skin. This gentle, soothing cream is designed to hydrate and protect without causing irritation, using natural ingredients like almond oil and plum kernel oil to nurture and balance.
Location: Global, founded in Germany
Pricing: $18.48
Skin Type: Sensitive skin
Key Ingredients:
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Sweet Almond Oil: Nourishes and softens the skin.
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Hydrolyzed Beeswax: Helps to stabilize and thicken the product.
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Prunus Domestica Seed Oil: Provides additional nourishing benefits.
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Glycerin: A humectant that draws moisture into the skin.
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Xanthan Gum: Used as a stabilizer and thickener.
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Lactic Acid: Helps to gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin
Certifications:
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Certified Natural by NATRUE
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UEBT Certified
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B-Corp
Image @ Weleda
Why Choose Organic and Natural Moisturizers?
Choosing natural and organic face moisturizers ensures you're applying products free from harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients. These moisturizers often contain organic and natural anti-wrinkle ingredients and are better for sensitive skin.
Plus, they are environmentally friendly, aligning with sustainable beauty practices.
What's the Best Natural Moisturizer for Your Face?
An ideal moisturizer should cater to your specific skin type and concerns.
For Dry and Sensitive Skin
It's beneficial to select natural moisturizers enriched with hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrating agent that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water.
This helps to deeply hydrate the skin, reducing dryness and improving skin texture. Essential oils like argan oil, almond, or jojoba oil also play a crucial role, offering additional hydration and nourishment. These oils are rich in vitamins and fatty acids, which aid in repairing and rejuvenating dry skin, leaving it soft, supple, and well-moisturized.
For Acne-Prone or Oily Skin
Lightweight moisturizers with natural anti-inflammatory ingredients are ideal. These formulas are designed to provide hydration without clogging pores or exacerbating acne.
Ingredients like tea tree oil, green tea extract, and witch hazel are beneficial for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
They help in controlling oil production and reducing acne-related redness and swelling. Such moisturizers not only hydrate but also assist in managing common issues associated with oily and acne-prone skin, promoting a clearer, healthier complexion.
What Is the Healthiest Way to Moisturize Your Face?
The healthiest way to moisturize your face is by using products with natural and organic ingredients. These should be free from harmful chemicals, providing hydration without clogging pores or causing irritation.
It doesn't make much sense to solve one problem (dry skin) while creating another (potential health concerns)!
Ingredients In a Natural Face Moisturizer
Understanding the ingredients in a natural moisturizer for your face is crucial in selecting the right product. In addition to the extensive list at the beginning of the article, here's a snapshot of the types of ingredients you'll find in these natural products and the dual strategy of a good moisturizer:
Moisture-attracting ingredients:
Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera are excellent for attracting moisture to the skin. These hydrating agents help maintain skin's moisture levels, keeping it plump and hydrated.
Moisture sealing ingredients:
Look for natural oils and butters like jojoba oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter. These ingredients help lock in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated for longer periods.
Face Oils vs. Moisturizers
It's important to understand how face oils differ from moisturizers and their respective roles in maintaining healthy skin. Let's explore what constitutes the healthiest skin moisturizer in this context.
What's The Difference Between Face Oils & Moisturizers?
Face oils and moisturizers serve slightly different purposes in skincare.
Face oils are primarily used to nourish and balance the skin's natural oils, offering concentrated hydration.
Moisturizers, on the other hand, often contain a blend of hydrating ingredients and may include water, which helps to hydrate and seal moisture into the skin. They can also provide additional benefits like sun protection and anti-aging properties.
Which Is The Better Choice For Me?
Choosing between a face oil and a moisturizer depends on your skin type and needs.
If you have dry or mature skin, face oils can provide intensive nourishment.
For combination or oily skin, a lightweight moisturizer can hydrate without causing greasiness. For sensitive skin, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free options are best.
Understanding your skin's unique requirements will guide you in making the best choice.
One thing to note: If you choose a skin oil, this will essentially act as your moisturizer, so there is no need to incorporate both products into your skincare routine.
FAQ
Which moisturizer has the least chemicals?
Moisturizers with organic certifications typically have the least chemicals, as they are formulated with natural ingredients and avoid synthetic additives. Look for either USDA-certified organic or more local certifications like CCOF & Oregon Tilth.
Wild-harvested ingredients aren't regulated, but they are generally considered safe since they are found in undisturbed areas where the plant grows naturally.
What is the safest natural moisturizer?
The safest natural moisturizers are those with organic, plant-derived ingredients, free from synthetic chemicals, and suitable for sensitive skin.
What is the best homemade face moisturizer?
A simple homemade face moisturizer can be made with ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils. However, it's important to understand your skin's needs and test for any reactions.
Remember to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice, especially if you have specific skin concerns or conditions.
*The links are so-called 'affiliate links.' This means that we receive a small commission if you purchase something through them, which helps us further develop the blog and create even more useful and valuable content for you!
Lauren Eaton
