15 Best Fragrance-Free Moisturizers For Healthy, Hydrated Skin In 2023
Protect your sensitive skin and treat its dryness by using only the most gentle formulas!
Vaishnavi Kothuri Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Vaishnavi is a techie-turned-content writer and a certified skin care coach with four years of experience. She did her postgraduation from Vignan Institute of Technology & Sciences, Telangana. She... more
Image: Shutterstock
If you have sensitive and acne-prone skin, then it’s high time you switch to fragrance-free moisturizer, along with other skin care products. However, finding the right moisturizer for this particular skin type might be tricky. If you don’t want your skin to get inflamed or irritated, avoiding artificial fragrances is the best solution. Always look for products free from sulfates, parabens, GMO, PABA, and, last but not least, artificial fragrances. What’s more? Since most fragrance-free moisturizers are designed with sensitive skin in mind, they are often free of other common irritants, like dyes and alcohol, too.
While buying moisturizers, we often go for those with a pleasant fragrance. But what one needs to remember is that, though aromatherapy has a lot of benefits, it can be a bad thing. Synthetic and natural fragrances are packed with allergens that might cause inflamed, itchy, and broken skin. So, it is time to give your skin the gentle treatment it deserves. In this article, we have curated a list of some of our top picks on the market. Keep scrolling to find the 15 best fragrance-free moisturizers!
In This Article
15 Best Fragrance-Free Moisturizers In 2023 To Clean And Healthy Skin
Best Non-Comedogenic:CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
A fragrance-free moisturizing cream that hydrates generously, this moisturizing cream contains hyaluronic acid and essential ceramides to lock moisture in the skin. With this cream by your side, you can bid adieu to dry, flaky skin, eczema-ridden skin, and even skin which is sensitive and prone to redness and breakouts. It has a rich, velvety texture, which will be easily absorbed by your skin, leaving it feeling cared for without any greasy or sticky feeling. Developed in partnership with dermatologists, this fragrance-free moisturizer with hyaluronic acid has a unique formula that provides 24-hour hydration to your skin. Check out this video to better understand the functions of this product.
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle, non-irritating formula
- Paraben-free
- Allergy-tested
- Can be used on face, body and hands
Cons
- Some may find it greasy
Did You Know?Best Non-Greasy Formula:Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion
If you are looking for instant relief from dry skin, this could be just the fragrance-free moisturizer for you. This moisturizing lotion from Aveeno is known to show results as quickly as 1 day and quickly restores your skin to its fully-hydrated glory. Its formula contains oatmeal, a known natural ingredient that exfoliates and hydrates, leaving your skin soft and glowing. Once applied, this lotion will protect your skin against dryness for at least 24 hours. It is also very gentle and can be used as part of your daily beauty and skin care regime. Watch this YouTuber’s honest review to get a better idea about the product and its functions.
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Non-greasy formula
- Recommended by dermatologists
- Clinically proven anti-dryness formula
Cons
- It is specially formulated for dry skin, so may not be best suited for other skin types.
Best Dermatologist-Recommended:Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
Image: Neutrogena Tired of extremely dry, cracked up skin that just doesn’t seem to heal? This highly-hydrating fragrance-free moisturizer might just be the answer to your hydration prayers. Filled with the goodness of hyaluronic acid, this gel-based cream locks in your skin’s moisture and also attracts more moisture, leaving your skin supple and smooth. It absorbs quickly too, without compromising on the hydration of your skin. While it is a gel and can be applied in a quick swift motion, it absorbs like a cream. This is the perfect fragrance-free gel moisturizer for extremely dry skin. This video will give you a better insight into the qualities of the product.
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Instant-quench formula
- For all skin types
Cons
- Although it carries a fresh scent, some may find it overpowering.
Best Kid-Friendly:Vanicream Moisturizing Cream For Sensitive Skin
The Vanicream moisturizing cream is perfect for those with dry skin. It rehydrates without irritating, and its gentle formula ensures you can apply it overnight for best results. It is non-greasy, and yet has long-lasting moisturizing properties that you can rely on for smooth and supple, well-hydrated skin. Dermatologically-tested, this product doesn’t clog up your pores, thus keeping those dreaded blackheads at bay. There are absolutely no fragrances in this product, not even masking ones, and therefore, is super safe for sensitive dry skin.
Pros- Dye-free
- Lanolin-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Kid-friendly
Cons
- Some may find the formula too thick
Best For Anti-Aging:Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
With an advanced anti-aging formula, this fragrance-free facial moisturizer hydrates your skin and can help improve the appearance of saggy skin. Enriched with an amino-peptide complex, it keeps premature wrinkles and fine lines at bay. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which locks in your skin’s moisture, keeping it young and fresh. If sculpted, firmer skin is what you’re looking for, but sensitivity gets it in the way, choose this fragrance-free facial cream for best results. It can be used both in the morning before applying make-up, and at night, before bed.
Pros- Non-greasy
- Contains vitamin B3
- Contains antioxidants
Cons
- Contains paraben
Best Allergy-Tested:La Roche-Posay Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Having sensitive skin that is also oily can be quite a handful. Keeping it clear and blemish-free may feel like a challenge, but not so with the La Roche-Posay Double Repair Fragrance-Free Facial Moisturizer. It is completely oil-free, and contains SPF, prebiotic thermal water, ceramide-3, niacinamide, and glycerin. It has been tested on sensitive skin and absorbs into the skin easily, making it a non-greasy formula. It won’t clog your pores and the cream replenishes moisture in your skin for 48 hours, while protecting your skin’s natural protective barrier.
Pros- Paraben-free
- Allergy-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- May cause pilling
Best For Dry Skin:Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
This fragrance-free moisturizing cream is enriched with vitamin B5. It helps enrich and replenish normal to dry skin. It also contains moisturizers found naturally in healthy skin to help improve your skin’s moisture retaining capacity. It is non-greasy and doesn’t feel sticky on the skin. Instead, it leaves your skin feeling smooth, supple, and well-hydrated. It is clinically proven to moisturize skin for at least 24 hours.
Pros- Suitable for post-tattoo skin care
- Recommended by dermatologists
- Developed by dermatologists
- Normal to dry skin
Cons
- Contains parabens
RememberBest Hypoallergenic:Eucerin Advanced Repair Lotion
Image: Eucerin This fragrance-free moisturizing cream is specifically for extremely dry skin on the hands that has undergone a lot of damage. It repairs and fights dryness, keeping the skin moisturized for 48 hours after application. Enriched with ceramide-3 and natural moisturizing factors, this cream is highly-recommended by dermatologists worldwide. It has a light and non-greasy formula that leaves your skin completely hydrated and not at all sticky. Results can be seen after the first application itself.
Pros- Paraben-free
- Amino acids enriched
- Mild and doesn’t burn eyes
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Some users found the formula slippery and that it did not absorb easily
Best Quick Absorbing Formula:Curél Fragrance Free Comforting Body Lotion For Dry, Sensitive Skin
If dry, sensitive skin is keeping you up at night, this fragrance-free body moisturizer is the right pick for you. Keep your skin well-hydrated with the Curél fragrance-free Lotion without the fear of any sensitivity or breakouts, thanks to its hypoallergenic formula. Unlike traditional body lotions, this one doesn’t just hydrate the skin’s surface, but works within the skin and repairs its moisture barrier. It is clinically proven to provide 24 hours of continuous moisturization. This lotion contains an exclusive ceramide complex that helps in restoring your skin’s ceramide levels, leaving it hydrated and healthy-looking.
Pros- Non-greasy
- Absorbs quickly
- Gentle enough for face
- Contains advanced ceramide complex
Cons
- Contains parabens
Best Cruelty-Free:The Honest Company Face + Body Lotion - Purely Sensitive
A natural, pure, and gentle formula developed specifically for sensitive skin, this is a plant-based hypoallergenic body and face lotion. It hydrates and moisturizes the skin in the gentlest way possible, thanks to its natural oils balanced with organic ingredients. It leaves the skin feeling soft but never greasy. It’s main ingredients include organic shea butter, olive, jojoba, safflower oils, chamomile, calendula, and aloe. They nourish and support the skin’s natural moisture balance while calming and soothing the skin too. It is suitable for all skin types, and works especially well for dry, and allergy-prone skin.
Pros- Dye-free
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- No animal testing
Cons
- May not absorb easily
Best Cost-Effective:Solimo Ultra Moisturizing Skin Cream
Solimo skin care products are an Amazon brand, which are great at soothing skin with their hydrating effects. This fragrance-free moisturizing cream is made of formulas designed to moisturize and care for your skin, so you can look and feel great. Formulated with sweet almond oil and petrolatum, this cream works wonders for dry and sensitive skin. It keeps your skin healthy by replenishing and rehydrating it, giving it a new lease of life.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cost-effective
- Dermatologically-tested
Cons
- Some may find the texture slightly pasty
Best Lightweight:Elta MD Skincare AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer
This fragrance-free facial moisturizing cream not just hydrates the skin, but also smoothes skin texture and evens out skin color and tone. The formula is made without any oil or heavy emollients. But it contains hyaluronic acid, which aids in increasing moisture absorption and retention. This is an ideal daily face lotion, owing to its gentle nature and should be a part of eveyone’s anti-aging and dry skin regimen.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy formula
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Best Moisturizing:Sarna Sensitive Anti-Itch Lotion
Almost as effective as an anti-itch medication, this fragrance-free moisturizer’s formula provides intensive relief for eczema and dry skin conditions. It is safe to be applied directly to an area of itch, for targeted relief as well. This cream is specifically designed for sensitive skin and contains no harsh chemicals. It is accepted by the National Eczema Association and is safe for daily use. It helps restore moisture to dry, damaged skin.
Pros
- A better alternative to prescription steroid creams
- Paraben-free
- No harsh chemicals
- Can be bought without a prescription
Cons
- Some may find the smell quite medicinal
Best Long-Lasting Effect:Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion
The Lubriderm Daily Moisture Body Lotion is ideal for normal and dry skin types and can instantly restore moisture and nourish dry skin. This daily moisturizer keeps skin hydrated for 24 hours and promotes healthy-looking skin. The pro-Vitamin B5 in the formula assists in improving your skin barrier. This lotion’s non-greasy, unscented formula gives the skin a pleasant, smooth, and soft sensation and its quick-absorbing capacity is excellent for replenishing the skin’s moisture.
Pros- Nourishing formula
- Non-greasy
- Quick-absorbing formula
- Improves skin’s moisture barrier
Cons
None
Best For Sensitive Skin:Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer
The Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer is a lightweight lotion that contains sunscreen. It is an effective fragrance-free moisturizing facial cream with sunscreen that protects your skin from sun damage. It contains zinc oxide and is a broad spectrum protector with SPF 50. Its gentle formula designed for daily use leaves the skin soft and smooth. It protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays, keeping it young and flawless.
Pros- Non-comedogenic
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Silky smooth formula
- Non-irritating formula
Cons
- May not offer long-lasting hydration
One of the benefits of using a fragrance-free moisturizer is that you can avoid any potential allergens. Many ingredients in traditional moisturizers can be irritating and cause skin problems, so it is important to find one that works well for your skin type.Here are things to look for in a fragrance-free moisturizer.
Points To Remember Before Purchasing A Fragrance-Free Moisturizer
- Skin Type: If you have dry skin, look for a moisturizer that is specifically designed to soothe your skin. These types of moisturizers are usually thicker and more emollient-rich than those designed for other skin types. They may also contain ingredients that help lock in hydration and moisture, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, vitamin E, and argan oil.
If you have oily skin, avoid moisturizers that are too thick or greasy. Instead, look for ones that are light and non-comedogenic as meaning they won’t clog your pores. These types of moisturizers will help to control shine and keep your skin clear.
- Ingredients: Some key ingredients to look for include shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. These ingredients help keep the skin hydrated and do not smell too overwhelming. Additionally, many fragrance-free moisturizers also contain antioxidants, which can help protect the skin against damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors. Check the label to make sure that the moisturizer does not contain any synthetic fragrances. This can be tricky, as some labels may contain terms like “unscented” or “fragrance-free” but the products may contain synthetic fragrances!
- Consistency: Some moisturizers are thick and creamy, while others are more watery. Finally, think about how you would use the moisturizer. Some people prefer a moisture cream that they can apply straight to their skin, while others pair lightweight moisturizers with other skin care products for better benefits.
- Reviews: Make sure to read the reviews from customers in e-commerce websites before purchasing any moisturizer. This will give you a good idea of what others have thought about the product and whether or not it lives up to its claims.
For those with weakened skin barriers, like those who suffer from dry, sensitive, or eczema-skin types, fragrance-free options could help them avoid unnecessary irritation until their barrier is repaired. Nowadays, multiple skincare brands are coming up with unscented moisturizers to address these concerns. The products reviewed above in the curated list have non-comedogenic and gentle formulas, are free from any synthetic chemicals, and are safe enough for everyday use. Some of them are also recommended by dermatologists. One of the best ways to pick up a fragrance-free moisturizer is to thoroughly go through the ingredients list and look out for words like “fragrance” or “parfum.” Be mindful that even the fragrance derived from natural essential oils can act as allergens for your skin.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Vaishnavi Kothuri, the author of this article, has a keen interest in skin care. Her in-depth research and continuous look-through on the emerging products bring out the best for readers. After reading many online consumer reviews and extensive exploration, this list of best fragrance-free moisturizers is compiled by her. She says these moisturizers are a perfect fit for acne and oily skin, and their gentle action can give your skin a soft and supple look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fragrance in moisturizer bad?
No, fragrance in a moisturizer isn’t inherently bad. But, if your skin barrier is compromised, it is best to use fragrance-free products.
What is the difference between unscented and fragrance-free?
A fragrance-free moisturizer is one that doesn’t have any fragrance materials or masking scents. Unscented, on the other hand simply means that the moisturizer may contain chemicals that hide or diminish the scent of other ingredients.
Is Aveeno face moisturizer fragrance-free?
Yes, Aveeno face moisturizer is fragrance-free. It is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and emollients that keep your skin soft and supple.
Do dermatologists recommend fragrance-free moisturizers?
Yes, dermatologists can recommend fragrance-free moisturizers, as they are hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.
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