9 Best Paraben-Free Moisturizers For Women – 2023
Nourish your skin throughout the year with these safe, non-toxic skincare products.
Expertise: Cosmetic Dermatology
Experience: 10 years
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 U... more
Shiboli Chakraborti Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
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 edito... more
Aditi NaskarDiploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Health & Wellness
Experience: 5 years
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 i... more
Arshiya SyedaDiploma In Health & Wellness
Expertise: Beauty & Lifestyle, Health & Wellness
Experience: 7 years
Arshiya Syeda is a senior editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer and combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articl... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Are you searching for paraben-free moisturizers? Then, you’ve landed in the right place! Parabens have been used as preservatives in cosmetic products since the 1950s. Still, their connection to breast cancer as well as other health 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 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. Check them out by scrolling down!
In This Article
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).
Let’s now look at the 9 best paraben-free moisturizers for women available online.
9 Paraben-Free Moisturizers For Women – Top Picks Of 2023
1. Best Plant-Based:eraorganics Complete Face Moisturizer
Image: Era Organics The eraorganics moisturizer is plant-based, non-greasy, and lasts up to 8-12 hours. 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 organic moisturizer works as an anti-aging or night cream as the ingredients stimulate cell growth, boost collagen production, repair damaged cells, improve elasticity, and prevent damage from free radicals. 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.
Quick Tip2. 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 makes it look radiant, healthy, and youthful. It replenishes the skin’s essential nutrients by supplying nourishment and moisture throughout the day. 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
The HONEST BEAUTY Deep Hydration Face Cream has an extra rich, creamy texture for long-lasting hydration and a dewy glow. 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.
Pro Tip4. Best Fragrance-Free:LA ROCHE-POSAY Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
The LA ROCHE-POSAY moisturizer has carefully selected and dermatologist-recommended 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.
5. Best Non-Greasy:L’OREAL PARIS Revitalift Moisturizer
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 and revitalized complexion.
Key Ingredients: Pro-Retinol and Centella asiatica
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic
- Dye-free
- Allergy-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
Cons
None
Quick Tip6. 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 a natural glow. 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.
7. Best pH-Balanced Formula:ATOPALM Intensive Moisturising Cream
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 moisturizer 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
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
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Dye-free
- Silicone-free
- Dimethicone-free
- Triethanolamine-free
Cons
- Unpleasant smell
9. Best Non-Comedogenic:Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer
Image: Aveeno 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 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
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 as it could 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.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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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 save your skin from harmful long-lasting effects with any of these lotions.
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.
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.
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