9 Best Dermatologist-Approved Paraben-Free Moisturizers For Women (2024)

Nourish your skin throughout the year with these safe, non-toxic skincare products.

Medically reviewed by Dr. M. Khawar Nazir, MBBS Dr. M. Khawar Nazir Dr. M. Khawar NazirMBBS facebook_icontwitter_iconinsta_icon
Written by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by , BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma Arshiya Syeda BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma linkedin_icon Experience: 8 years
Last Updated on
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process.

Are you searching for paraben-free moisturizers for your dry skin? Then, you’ve landed in the right place! Parabens have been used as preservatives in cosmetic products since the 1950s. But, their connection to breast cancer as well as other health concerns and disorders has only recently earned them a pretty bad reputation. Dr. M. Khawar Nazir, cosmetic dermatologist, says, “Keeping the skin well hydrated is very important so that it remains healthier and looks youthful. I personally suggest paraben- free moisturizers to all of my patients to avoid any possible hormonal changes.”

So, if you have dry skin concerns and want to replace your usual moisturizers with a paraben-free one, we’ve got you covered. The top 9 paraben-free moisturizers for women are listed in this article. These are devoid of any other harmful ingredients apart from parabens. Check them out by scrolling down!

What Are Parabens?

Parabens are added to cosmetics to prevent molds and bacterial growth. You can spot them on ingredient lists in different forms like methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, isopropyl paraben, and isobutyl paraben. Parabens are alkyl esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid and are used as preservatives in most cosmetic products. Almost all parabens are made artificially; the only naturally occurring paraben is found in blueberries.

Why Should We Avoid Parabens In Our Skin Care Routine?

Parabens can hamper the hormonal functions of the body. They are xenoestrogens, which means that they mimic estrogen in the body and cause an imbalance in hormone levels. According to research parabens have been linked to breast cancer, early onset of puberty, and even reduced sperm count (1). Studies also show that parabens get stored in cells and can cause long-term damage after prolonged exposure (1). Therefore, it is best to use paraben-free products.

Let’s now look at the 9 best paraben-free moisturizers for women available online.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Plant-Based:eraorganics Complete Face MoisturizerPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Allergy-Tested:Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing MoisturizerPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Dye-Free:HONEST BEAUTY Deep Hydration Face CreamPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Fragrance-Free:LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Double Repair Face MoisturizerPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Non-Greasy:L’OREAL PARIS Revitalift MoisturizerPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Natural Glow:VICHY Aqualia Thermal Richie-RichPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best pH-Balanced Formula:ATOPALM Intensive Moisturising CreamPrice on Amazon
Best Lightweight:NĀELI Day Face Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30Price on Amazon
Best Non-Comedogenic:Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel MoisturizerPrice on Amazon

9 Bestselling Paraben-Free Moisturizers For Women – Top Picks Of 2024

1. Best Plant-Based:eraorganics Complete Face Moisturizer

The eraorganics moisturizer is plant-based, non-greasy, lasts up to 8-12 hours, and comes at an affordable price. It contains skin superfoods like aloe vera, manuka honey, MSM, coconut oil, shea butter, blue green algae, olive oil, cocoa butter, hemp seed oil, and cehami. This product works as an anti-aging moisturizer or night cream as the ingredients stimulate cell growth, boost collagen production, repair damaged cells, and improve elasticity. The moisturizer also prevents damage from free radicals and gives you radiant skin. It reduces fine lines and wrinkles and soothes redness and irritation.

Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Manuka honey, MSM, Coconut oil, Shea butter, Blue green algae, Olive oil, Cocoa butter, Hemp seed oil, and Cehami extract

Pros

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Plant-based
  • Non-greasy
  • Lightweight
  • Cruelty-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Filler-free
  • Alcohol-free

Cons

  • May cause breakouts.

protip_icon Quick Tip
It can also be used as a hand and body cream and does not have any added fragrances that irritate the skin.

worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 6,246 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

2. Best Allergy-Tested:Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer

 The Multi-Vitamin Moisturizer by Neutrogena has 97% naturally derived ingredients fortified with vitamins B, C, and E and antioxidant omega bio-nutrients. This clinically proven formula builds the skin’s defense against dullness and roughness and gives it a healthy, youthful, and radiant complexion. It replenishes the skin’s essential nutrients by supplying nourishment and moisture throughout the day, promoting healthy skin. The multiple reviews on Amazon suggest that this moisturizer works really well for dry and sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Vitamins B, C, and E and Omega Bionutrients

Pros

  • Dermatologically tested
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Allergy-tested
  • Petroleum-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Dye-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Eco-friendly

Cons

  • May cause breakouts.

3. Best Dye-Free:HONEST BEAUTY Deep Hydration Face Cream

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.4

The HONEST BEAUTY Deep Hydration Face Cream has an extra rich, creamy texture for long-lasting hydration and a dewy glow. It can be used on both dry and normal skin types. It has a mild shea butter scent and contains hyaluronic acid to bind retain moisture to the skin. The daikon radish seed and baobab seed oils are rich in fatty acids that restore the skin’s natural barrier, while the jojoba esters make the skin smooth, soft, and supple. According to multiple reviewers, this dermatologist-tested product works as a day or night moisturizer and leaves the skin replenished.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Daikon radish seed oil, Jojoba esters, and Baobab seed oil

Pros

  • Dermatologically tested
  • Toxicologist-verified
  • Cruelty-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Dye-free
  • PEG-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Synthetic fragrance-free

Cons

  • May cause irritation.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Apply the moisturizer on damp skin using circular motions for better absorption.

eraorganics Complete Face Moisturizer
Best Plant-Based
Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer
Best Allergy-Tested
HONEST BEAUTY Deep Hydration Face Cream
Best Dye-Free
Dimensions 4 x 4 x 4 inches 1.63 x 2.5 x 5.88 inches 2 x 2 x 4 inches
Weight 3.1 Ounces 4.48 Ounces 3.82 Ounces.
Rating
Reviews6,2463,5011,042
Price$27.45$24.18$25.93

4. Best Fragrance-Free:LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.5

The LA ROCHE-POSAY moisturizer is packed with carefully selected dermatologist-recommended natural and skin-friendly ingredients to maximize skin benefits and restore the health of the skin without clogging the pores. This oil-free formula with a high concentration of prebiotic thermal water nourishes the skin’s microbiome, provides hydration for up to 48 hours, and restores the natural skin barrier. Ceramide-3 is an essential ceramide naturally found in the skin, niacinamide (vitamin B3) has soothing properties, and glycerin naturally attracts water to the skin to keep it moisturized. This moisturizer is also tested for allergens to help prevent any reactions.

Key Ingredients: Prebiotics thermal water, Ceramide-3, Niacinamide, and Glycerin

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Oil-free
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Allergy-tested
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

  • May cause irritation.
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 4,377 reviews claiming its efficacy.

5. Best Non-Greasy:L’OREAL PARIS Revitalift Moisturizer

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.5
L’OREAL PARIS Revitalift Moisturizer Image: L’oreal Paris

This rich, non-greasy moisturizer by L’Oreal strengthens, repairs, and offers skin barrier support to resist aging signs like visible lines and loss of firmness. The clinically-tested formula contains wrinkle-fighting Pro-Retinol and Centella Asiatica which delivers visible results by maintaining the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Its proven efficacy offers not only smoother, softer, and supple skin but also 24-hour hydration, ensuring a rejuvenated, revitalized, and glowing complexion.

Key Ingredients: Pro-Retinol and Centella asiatica

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Dye-free
  • Allergy-tested
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

  • None

protip_icon Quick Tip
Do not forget to apply the moisturizer along your lower jawline, ears, neck, and the visible parts of the chest.

6. Best For Natural Glow:VICHY Aqualia Thermal Richie-Rich

The velvety-soft, rich VICHY Aqualia Thermal face moisturizer is formulated with 97% natural ingredients to smoothen fine lines and reveal glowing skin. Its deeply hydrating ingredients include pure hyaluronic acid, Vichy volcanic water, and plant sugar. The Vichy volcanic water is sourced from the heart of French volcanoes and comes with 15 essential minerals that strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and protect it against external elements like UV rays and pollution. The pure hyaluronic acid visibly hydrates and plumps the skin. The plant sugar delivers high-performance hydration and visible results by strengthening and rejuvenating the skin barrier to prevent water loss.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Vichy volcanic water, and Plant sugar

Pros

  • Dermatologically tested
  • Provides UV protection
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Allergy-tested

Cons

  • May cause breakouts.
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 2,871 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

7. Best pH-Balanced Formula:ATOPALM Intensive Moisturising Cream

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.5
Atopalm Intensive Moisturizing Cream Image: Atopalm

The ATOPALM Intensive Moisturising Cream is rich, gentle, and deeply hydrating for the face and body, especially the knees and elbows. Its patented MLE (Multi-Lamellar Emulsion) formula contains plant-derived ingredients to replenish the lost skin lipids and prevent over-evaporation of the skin’s moisture. This beauty product shields the skin against damage from environmental stress and seals in moisture to make your skin soft and supple. Use it as a repair treatment for itching, irritated skin, redness, cosmetic allergies, and after procedures like microdermabrasion.

Key Ingredients: Olive oil, Jojoba oil, Glycerin, and Vegetable oil

Pros

  • Gentle formula
  • Non-greasy
  • RIPT-tested
  • Dermatologically tested
  • pH-balanced

Cons

  • May cause breakouts.

8. Best Lightweight:NĀELI Day Face Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.2
NAELI Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Day Moisturizer Image: Naeli

The NĀELI Face Moisturizer is a lightweight, hydrating, peptide-rich cream that offers anti-aging benefits, collagen regeneration, and protection from UVA/UVB rays and photoaging. The antioxidant extracts, vitamin A, and hydrolyzed oat protein increase elasticity and cellular regeneration, minimize wrinkles, smoothen fine lines, and prevent aging with the broad-spectrum SPF 30. This lightweight moisturizer contains restorative peptides, moisture-retaining hyaluronic acid, and replenishing ceramides for plump, firm, and youthful skin. It absorbs readily, leaves no chalky white residue, does not clog pores, or irritates the skin.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin A, Hydrolyzed oat protein, Collagen, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, and Ceramide NG

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Lightweight
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Alcohol-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • PEG-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Artificial fragrance-free
  • Dye-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Dimethicone-free
  • Triethanolamine-free

Cons

  • Unpleasant smell
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

A whopping 1,316 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.

9. Best Non-Comedogenic:Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer

star-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-ratingstar-rating
4.4

Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel moisturizer is a paraben-free lightweight gel moisturizer formulated with prebiotic oats that moisturize and soothe the skin. It is also infused with panthenol, glycerin, and chamomile extracts that calm and strengthen the skin barrier. This hypoallergenic facial moisturizer is a non-greasy and quick-absorbing gel formula that leaves your skin feeling hydrated and refreshed for a long time. It doesn’t feel heavy or greasy, which makes it perfect for morning and nighttime routines. All skin types, including sensitive skin, can use this soothing and non-irritating cream according to multiple Amazon reviews.

Key Ingredients: Prebiotic oat, Panthenol, Chamomile

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Fast-absorbing
  • Non-greasy
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Dye-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Cons

  • None
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Now that you know about the best paraben-free moisturizers for your skin, let’s consider the necessary pointers to keep in mind before investing in one.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Paraben-Free Moisturizer

  • Check The Ingredients

Scan the ingredient list to analyze other preservatives used in place of parabens and their effects. In many cases, parabens are replaced with natural and safe ingredients. However, beware of formaldehyde, an irritating ingredient that can cause skin problems.

  • Shelf Life

Check the expiry date before buying a paraben-free moisturizer. Storing with care is important if you intend on increasing its potency. A cool, dry place, away from the sunlight, should keep it in good condition.

Infographic: Key Ingredients In Paraben-Free Moisturizers

A paraben-free moisturizer is safe for your skin. But to know if a formula is effective for improving your skin’s health, check its ingredients list. Some moisturizers are infused with potent ingredients that can visibly improve your skin’s health and texture. Go through the infographic below to know about these ingredients and learn how they can benefit your skin.

Key Ingredients In Paraben-Free Moisturizers (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

When it comes to skincare products, opting for paraben-free moisturizers is a wise choice to make. The best paraben-free moisturizers will be safe to use and offer the right amount of moisturization and nourishment to your skin. For instance, for individuals with dry skin, the Era Organics Complete Face Moisturizer is best as it hydrates and soothes the skin, while individuals with sensitive and reactive skin should try out the LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer. On the other hand, the Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile choice for daily use. The reviewed products in the curated list have a non-comedogenic and non-greasy formula free from other synthetic preservatives. Check the ingredients’ list and shelf life of the products before purchasing the bestselling paraben-free moisturizers. You can shield your skin from the harmful effects of harsh ingredients with any of these lotions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are parabens bad for the skin?

Yes, parabens are bad for your skin as they may cause hormonal imbalances in the body since they mimic estrogen.

What are examples of parabens?

Some commonly used parabens are methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, isopropyl paraben, and isobutyl paraben.

Do parabens really cause breast cancer?

Research shows the presence of parabens in breast tumors. However, more studies are required to establish a connection.

How to identify parabens in the ingredient list?

Parabens are easily identifiable by their names, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, or ethylparaben.

Does paraben-free mean sulfate-free?

No, it does not mean the same. While sulfates are cleansing agents, parabens prevent the growth of bacteria and increase the shelf life of products. The exclusion of one does not mean the exclusion of both from a product. So, always double check before getting your products.

How much paraben is safe for the skin?

Up to 25% of parabens are safe for use in cosmetics. According to The European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, 0.4% and 0.8% of methylparaben and ethylparaben are within safety limits.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shiboli Chakraborti is a certified skin care coach. She shared tips for choosing the best moisturizers in her buying guide and explained how to consider ingredients and shelf-life parameters for better results. After conducting extensive research and reviewing numerous online customer feedback, she listed the best paraben-free moisturizers. These products hydrate your skin without causing hormonal imbalance.

Dr. M. Khawar Nazir has 10 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and is the CEO of Boston Aesthetics Lahore, Pakistan. He earned his MBBS degree from Nishtar Medical College, Multan, Pakistan, and did his post graduation from Boston University, School Of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.

Read full bio of Dr. M. Khawar Nazir
Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli 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, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Aditi Naskar
Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Arshiya Syeda
Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief
Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda