11 Best Alcohol-Free Beauty Products Of 2023
Don’t let your skin dry out! Flourish it with good ol’ TLC, moisturization, and hydration.
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
krati darakMBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
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Products with alcohol can be drying, which is why most of us always look for alcohol-free skin care products. Alcohols, especially alcohol denat, often disrupt your skin’s oil balance and protective barrier, causing dryness, acne outbreaks, inflammation, and may lead to premature aging signs. If you want to switch to an alcohol-free skin care routine, we have compiled a list of the 11 finest alcohol-free skin care products for each skin type. Scroll down to check them out.
In This Article
Why Should We Avoid Alcohol In Skin Care Products?
When it comes to skin care products, it is best to pick the ones without alcohol. The major reason is that it tends to dry out your skin. Alcohol stimulates oil production and depletes your skin’s natural protection barrier. It also disturbs the natural oil balance required for healthy skin, worsening oily skin conditions. It accelerates premature aging, making your skin saggy and wrinkly.
Let’s take a look at the 11 best alcohol-free skin care products that you can include in your beauty regimen.
11 Best Alcohol-Free Skin Care Products
1. Best Lightweight Formula:Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield Water Gel Sunscreen
Image: Neutrogena The Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield Water Gel Sunscreen provides your skin with an instant boost of hydration to quench dehydrated skin while protecting it from exposure to pollution and daily aggressors. This alcohol-free sunscreen has broad-spectrum SPF 25 that protects your skin by blocking out UVA and UVB rays. The lightweight formula is infused with a complex of purified hyaluronic acid that adds moisture to your skin and locks it in. This 2-in-1 moisturizing formula also has antioxidant properties that fight signs of dullness or tired-looking skin and ensures soft and supple skin. Also, this product has excellent reviews, confirming why this one is a must-have product.
Skin Type: All
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Lightweight
- Nourishing formula
- Oil-free
- Wearable under makeup
- Strong fragrance
StyleCraze Trivia2. Best Hypoallergenic Option: Ebanel Hyaluronic Collagen Sheet Mask
The alcohol-free Ebanel Hyaluronic Collagen Sheet Mask is sure to transform your skin by instantly adding a boost of hydration, radiance, and beneficial antioxidants. The ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and E, aloe vera, tomato, edelweiss, and purslane extracts. The plant-derived product contains collagen peptides extracted from seaweed to boost skin cell regeneration and provide firmer and wrinkle-free skin. The potent serum-infused sheets soothe your skin, reduce redness, relieve acne, and offer a supple finish and a healthy glow. Here’s a video of the reviewer’s experience to help you know more about this product.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, and Acne-prone
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Non-irritating
- Soothing formula
- Allergy-tested
- Cruelty-free
- All-natural
- Vegan
- Unpleasant fragrance
- Might cause redness in sensitive skin.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 11,338 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
3. Best Dermatologically Tested:La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra
The La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra has a gentle water-like texture and works as a face wash, toner, and makeup remover. This tried-and-tested formula removes even the most stubborn and long-wear makeup, excess oil, sebum, pollution, dirt, and grime from your pores. It refreshes your skin instantly, hydrates it, and prevents acne breakouts. The antioxidant-rich water and glycerin hydrate the skin, while the poloxamer cleanses the skin deeply and gently. This micellar water lifts off impurities and makeup with a single swipe and does not require rubbing. This video reviews the product in detail, so check it out.
Skin Type: Combination, Sensitive, and Normal
- Gentle
- No-rinse formula
- Dermatologically tested
- Ophthalmologically tested
- Clinically-tested
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Soap-free
- Fragrance-free
- Ideal for daily use
- May cause breakouts.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 4,986 great reviews on Amazon.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield Water Gel Sunscreen Best Lightweight Formula | Ebanel Hyaluronic Collagen Sheet Mask Best Hypoallergenic Option | La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra Best Dermatologically Tested | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.4 Pounds | - | - |
| Dimensions | 2.72 x 2.72 x 5.44 inches | 6.3 x 4.72 x 1.81 inches | 2.4 x 2.4 x 1 inches |
| Weight | 6.4 Ounces | 14 Ounces | 13.49 Ounces |
| Skin Type | - | - | Combination, Sensitive, Normal |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 5,332 | 11,338 | 4,986 |
| Price | $22.39 | $31.99 | $16.99 |
4. Best For All Skin Type:PAULA’S CHOICE Clear Daily Skin Clearing Treatment
This product from PAULA’S CHOICE is perfect for those dealing with acne breakouts and blemishes. The alcohol-free and ultra-light lotion combats acne, controls excess sebum secretion, soothes the skin, and calms redness. It also hydrates the skin to minimize skin peeling due to dryness. It has a matte finish, ideal for a makeup base. This product is suitable for all age groups and skin types, including mild, moderate acne to cystic acne-prone skin. For a more detailed review of this product, here’s a video.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, and Normal
- Clinically tested
- Lightweight
- Calming formula
- Matte finish
- Oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Might cause a burning sensation.
5. Best For Clear Appearance:Burt’s Bees Facial Towelettes
Rejuvenate your skin with the Burt’s Bees Facial Towelettes. These facial towelettes are infused with rich botanicals and other skin-friendly ingredients, such as aloe vera, rice, and cotton that help to remove oil, excess dirt, and makeup. They make your skin soft, clean, and tone your skin for a clear appearance. Additionally, the pack comes with a convenient resealable closure and is rinse-free. You need to dispose of these towelettes after use.
Skin Type: Sensitive
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- SLS-free
- Phthalate-free
- Petrolatum-free
- May dry out your skin
Pro Tip6. Best Non-Comedogenic Formula:touch kp Exfoliating Wash
The mild and alcohol-free touch kp Exfoliating Wash is best suited for treating keratosis pilaris and body acne. It is formulated with 15% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid to clear your skin by gentle exfoliation. It has a pH of 3.5 and contains no harsh and harmful ingredients that could aggravate skin concerns.
The glycolic acid (AHA) exfoliates tiny skin bumps, while the oil-soluble salicylic acid (BHA) seeps in your pores to reduce inflammation and redness caused by body acne. Hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and prevents drying or natural moisture loss. The moisturizing aloe vera prevents irritation, the anti-inflammatory gotu kola stimulates collagen production, and the antioxidant-rich vitamin E exhibits repairing properties that protect your skin.
Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, and Normal
- Non-comedogenic
- Clinically-proven ingredients
- Mild
- Non-drying
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Highly expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 453 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
7. Best For Daily Use:Clean & Clear Lemon Juice Toner
This revitalizing alcohol-free toner from Clean & Clear cleanses your skin gently and deeply. It is loaded with lemon extract and vitamin C that even-tone your complexion. The non-drying formula brightens your skin, lifts off impurities from the pores, and treats acne, leaving you with clear, bright, and healthy skin. The purifying properties of the toner boost your natural radiance and brighten your skin with consistent use.
Skin Type: Acne-prone
- No-rinse formula
- Oil-free
- Ideal for daily use
- Value for money
- Strong fragrance
- May dry out the skin.
8. Best Preservative-Free Formula:Sweet Essentials Rose Water
This 100% pure and organic Moroccan rosewater can be used for skin care, hair care, and to add flavor to desserts and drinks. It balances the skin’s moisture levels and opens blocked pores to prevent blackheads, pimples, and acne. Its anti-aging properties stimulate blood circulation to prevent wrinkles and firm the skin. This rose water is best suited for irritated and sensitive skin. It also rejuvenates the hair and prevents damage due to the sun and heat styling tools.
Skin Type: All
- Gentle
- Multipurpose
- Preservative-free
- GMO-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Contains artificial fragrance
9. Best For Daily Use:Ebanel Ultimate Brightening Peeling Gel
The Ebanel Ultimate Brightening Peeling Gel is a gentle exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and impurities from your skin. It gets rid of dry and dull skin to enhance the natural skin cell turnover without causing any skin irritation. This alcohol-free gel is loaded with the goodness of aloe vera, honey, allantoin, and vitamins C and E.
The potent blend helps brighten, hydrate, and heal your skin with its anti-inflammatory properties. The astringent stem cell extracts tighten the pores, while the antioxidants and peptides firm your skin to make it look younger and radiant. This peeling gel is formulated with micro-fine granules that offer mild exfoliation without clogging the pores.
Skin Type: All
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Pore-minimizing formula
- Mild
- Non-irritatingParaben-free
- Soap-freeIdeal for daily use
- Doesn’t exfoliate dead skin.
10. Best For Wrinkles:eraorganics Soothe Daily Redness Relief Moisturizer
This moisturizer from eraorganics has a plant-based formula to combat skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, redness, dermatitis, acne, dry skin, itching, or irritation. This alcohol-free skin care product diminishes scars and blemishes, heals affected skin, and promotes even skin tone. It contains aloe vera and coconut oil with healing properties and chamomile to relieve itchiness and dryness. MSM promotes skin regeneration, milk thistle has skin-protecting antioxidants, while cocoa butter and avocado oil boost collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Skin Type: Acne-prone and Sensitive
- Vegan
- All-natural
- Dye-free
- Fragrance-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petroleum-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Greasy
11. Best For Acne:Cos De Baha AZ Azelaic Acid 10 Serum
This Korean skin care product nurtures your skin in more than one way! It contains azelaic acid that helps diminish acne, blemishes, dark spots, and acne breakout marks. The multi-tasking formula has an oil-free texture and is lightweight enough to be mixed with other skin care products. This alcohol-free serum has niacinamide that reduces acne. It serves as a perfect base for makeup and leaves your skin soft and supple.
Skin Type: Sensitive and Acne-prone
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Hydroquinone-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Ideal for everyday use
- Might cause rashes.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 4,708 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Now that you have gone through our top picks for alcohol-free products, here are some factors to consider before buying one.
Things To Consider Before Buying An Alcohol-Free Skin Care Product
- Skin Type
The skin type is an essential factor to consider while buying any skin care product. Dry skin requires products that tackle dryness and impart more moisture, while oily skin needs products to control excess sebum and prevent acne. Also, always remember to do a patch test before applying any product to your skin to avoid adverse effects.
- Ingredients
Read the labels and check the ingredient list to avoid any products that contain parabens, sulfates, added fragrances, or any other harmful chemicals that might damage your skin’s texture and health in the long run. Opt for safe, natural ingredients and organic, eco-friendly products that do not adversely affect your skin. Additionally, opt for products made with scientifically formulated ingredients that offer a multitude of benefits.
- Skin Concerns
When you decide on a skin care product, make sure that it addresses the skin concern you are looking for. For instance, if you are dealing with acne, look for products with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or niacinamide. If you have dry skin, look for products with hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Furthermore, try choosing the products that are dermatologist-recommended or expert-recommended for the most effective results.
- Brand And Reviews
Take your time to do some research by going through online customer reviews or ask an expert for a recommendation. Check if the skin care brand is vegan, cruelty-free, FDA-approved, dermatologically tested, and safe to use.
- Shelf Life
Some products are loaded with preservatives that should ideally not be used beyond a certain time. Therefore, the shelf life/expiry date plays a vital role. Any product used after its shelf life might cause breakouts, rashes, allergies, irritation, or other skin issues.
- Price
It is a myth that any expensive product from a highly reputed brand is sure to work wonders on your skin. The most highly-priced skin care product doesn’t need to be the best. Focus on the ingredients and the customer reviews instead of the price tag. Some pocket-friendly brands are sure to provide equally good and effective results.
When it comes to your skin care routine, the best and safest thing to do is remove alcohol completely from it. Skin care products infused with alcohol might be drying and can irritate your skin by stripping off the natural oils. Alcohol-free skin care products prevent breakouts, dryness, inflammation, and signs of aging. The reviewed options mentioned in the curated list have a lightweight, non-comedogenic, oil-free formula and are ideal for daily use. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield Water Gel Sunscreen combines sun protection with hydration for combination and oily skin, the La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Ultra gently removes impurities and stubborn makeup from even sensitive skin, and the PAULA’S CHOICE Clear Daily Skin Clearing Treatment focuses on clearing blemishes and acne. Consider your skin type, skin concerns, shelf life, brand reviews, and product price before choosing the best alcohol-free skin care products.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. She enjoys reviewing beauty products as they hit the shelves. She went through various trusted online forums to analyze user feedback and curated this list of the best alcohol-free skin care products for her readers. These products are hypoallergenic, non-irritating, chemical-free, gentle, and keep the skin hydrated. They also rejuvenate the skin and leave it feeling fresh and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if a product is alcohol free?
Brands are proud to have alcohol-free skincare products which is why they label ‘alcohol-free’ on all their products.
Why do so many beauty products have alcohol?
Beauty products have alcohol in them so that they appear and sit well on your skin. Products with alcohol in them usually form a layer on the skin that appears to retain moisture. Sometimes, brands may use alcohol as a preservative to extend the shelf life of the products.
Why does La Roche Posay use alcohol?
In its formulation, La Roche Posay uses an alcohol that is both safe and certified. It is applied to assist create a light texture and a cooling, refreshing sensation. But not all of its products contain alcohol.
Does serum contain alcohol?
Some serums may contain alcohol in order to penetrate into the skin more effectively.
Does Neutrogena contain alcohol?
No, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Sunscreen does not contain alcohol in it.
