Best Paraben-Free Face Moisturizers of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 17, 2025

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Paraben-free face moisturizers are becoming increasingly popular among those who are concerned about the chemicals they put on their skin. Parabens are synthetic preservatives commonly used in skincare products, but they have been linked to potential health risks. Paraben-free face moisturizers offer a safer alternative without compromising on quality. These products are made with natural ingredients that hydrate and nourish the skin without harsh chemicals. They are perfect for those with sensitive skin or anyone looking to make a more conscious choice in their skincare routine.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Repair Cream Cover #TOP 1
COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Repair Cream
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream Cover #TOP 2
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer Cover #TOP 3
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Paraben-Free Face Moisturizers

COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Repair Cream

SC50AS10
White
COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Repair Cream Cover
COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer, Daily Repair Face Gel Cream Tube Type for Dry, Sensitive Skin, Not Tested on Animals, No Parabens, No Sulfates, No Phthalates, Korean Skin Care (7.05Fl Oz / 200g)

The COSRX Snail Repair Cream is a daily moisturizer that is perfect for dry, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. With its key ingredient of 92% Snail Mucin, this cream creates a moisture barrier to hydrate and soothe the skin. It is a lightweight, gel-type cream that repairs and soothes irritated skin, making it ideal for conditions like rosacea. The Snail Mucin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Betaine in this cream work together to strengthen the skin's barrier and replenish moisture. Not only does it provide deep hydration, but it also leaves the skin looking radiant without any sticky residue. As an added bonus, this cream is 100% natural, hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and not tested on animals.

What We Like
Great price for large tube
Quick absorption, non-sticky
Effective for hydration
Improves skin texture and glow
Suitable for sensitive skin
What We Don't Like
Possible allergic reactions
Some find texture off-putting

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream

19694
5 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream Cover
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream with Prebiotic Oat for Sensitive Skin, Lightweight Hydrating Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin, Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free, Dye-Free, 5 FL OZ

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream Moisturizer with soothing Prebiotic Oat, nourishes dry skin with moisture & can help give you soft skin. The daily facial cream for dry skin is clinically proven to moisturize dry skin for 24 hours & formulated with prebiotic oat designed to moisturize for soft, smooth, healthy-looking skin.

What We Like
Gentle and soothing
Lightweight texture
Long-lasting hydration
Dermatologist recommended
What We Don't Like
Mild scent may not suit everyone
Limited SPF protection

Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

323-03
White
3 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer Cover
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer With Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid - Formulated Without Common Irritants for Those with Sensitive Skin, 3 fl oz (Pack of 1)

Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer is a lightweight, gluten-free moisturizer for sensitive skin. Formulated with 5 key ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane and glycerin, this fragrance-free moisturizer is non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. Customers have reported that it is gentle on their skin, absorbs quickly, and leaves no residue.

What We Like
Great for sensitive skin
Lightweight and absorbs quickly
Hydrating without greasiness
Fragrance-free formula
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
May not suit very dry skin

La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer Cover
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, Daily Moisturizer Face Cream with Ceramide and Niacinamide for All Skin Types, Oil Free, Fragrance Free

Get healthy-looking skin with La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer. Dermatologist-recommended ceramide-3, niacinamide, glycerin, and Prebiotic Thermal Water work together to repair your natural skin barrier and provide up to 48-hour hydration. The lightweight cream texture absorbs quickly, leaving you feeling comfortable. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, this moisturizer is fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic. Ceramide-3 helps retain moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Niacinamide restores your skin's moisture barrier and fades skin discolorations. Glycerin hydrates your skin for a healthy, youthful glow.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-greasy
Fragrance-free and gentle
Excellent hydration for sensitive skin
Contains beneficial ingredients
Broad-spectrum SPF protection
What We Don't Like
Slightly sticky on application
Higher price point

Neutrogena Fragrance Free Daily Facial Moisturizer

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Neutrogena Fragrance Free Daily Facial Moisturizer Cover
Neutrogena Fragrance Free Daily Facial Moisturizer, Face Moisturizer for Sensitive & Dry Skin with Vitamin B3, Pro-Vitamin B5 & Vitamin E, Supports Skin's Dynamic Barrier, 3.4 fl. oz

Neutrogena Fragrance Free Moisturizer is a daily facial moisturizer specifically designed for sensitive and reactive skin. With its multivitamin complex, this moisturizer helps support the skin's dynamic barrier without clogging pores. It conditions the skin and fights daily environmental aggressors, making it suitable for those with red, tight, dry, or uncomfortable skin. The formula contains Vitamin B3, Pro-Vitamin B5, and Vitamin E to nourish and protect the skin. This fragrance-free moisturizer is also free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes. Dermatologist-recommended, it is an essential part of your sensitive skincare routine.

What We Like
Lightweight formula
Great for sensitive skin
Non-greasy finish
Effective hydration
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Slight burning sensation
Less creamy than previous version
#TOP 6

COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream

8809416470122
COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream Cover
COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Cream, Long-lasting Hydration, Rich Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin 3.52 oz / 100g, Korean Skin Care, Animal Testing Free, Parabens Free

COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream is designed to deliver long-lasting nourishment and hydration to your skin. This cream is the key to plumping out the fine lines and delivering the glow. It is safe for all skin types and is great for dry and normal skin types. It is also good to ok for combination skin, but may need additional sebum-controlling products. It is hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, animal testing-free, parabens-free, sulfates-free, and phthalates-free.

What We Like
Lightweight texture
Excellent hydration
Soothing for sensitive skin
Good price point
Long-lasting product
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavy for daytime use
May feel sticky under makeup

COSRX Oil Free Lotion with Birch Sap

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COSRX Oil Free Lotion with Birch Sap Cover
COSRX Oil Free Lotion with Birch Sap, Daily Acne Facial Moisturizer, Hydrating Moisturizer for All Skin Types, Korean Skin Care, Paraben free, 3.38 fl.oz / 100ml

COSRX Oil-Free Lotion is a hydrating moisturizer perfect for oily and combination skin. This daily moisturizer is easy to use and can be incorporated into your skincare routine both day and night. It has a light and non-greasy consistency that penetrates deeply into the skin, calming and treating irritated skin while providing necessary antioxidants and vitamins. The key ingredient in this lotion is natural willow bark water, also known as birch sap, which effectively restores moisture and maintains the skin's hydration level. The lotion is also known for its fast and smooth absorption, leaving your skin feeling fresh, soft, and silky smooth. All COSRX products, including this lotion, are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients and are hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.

What We Like
Lightweight and absorbent
Non-greasy finish
Suitable for oily skin
Good value for money
Long-lasting product
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for dry skin
Some found it sticky

Aveeno Calm + Restore Facial Serum for Sensitive Skin

1689105
Moisturizer
Aveeno Calm + Restore Facial Serum for Sensitive Skin Cover
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Facial Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin, Fast-Absorbing, Soothing Lightweight Gel Cream with Prebiotic Oat & Feverfew, Fragrance-Free & Hypoallergenic, 1.7 oz

Aveeno Calm + Restore Triple Oat Hydrating Face Serum is an excellent choice for those with sensitive and dry skin. The lightweight facial serum instantly hydrates, soothes, and replenishes the skin's moisture barrier, making it more resilient. It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, alcohol-free, dye-free, phthalate-free, and non-comedogenic. This product is suitable for daily use in a regular skincare routine, and comes from Aveeno, a dermatologist recommended brand.

What We Like
Super moisturizing
Gentle on sensitive skin
Lightweight and non-greasy
Absorbs quickly
Improves skin texture
What We Don't Like
Small container size
Wasteful packaging design

Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream with Hyaluronic Acid & Squalane

BH-0000071
White
Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream with Hyaluronic Acid & Squalane Cover
Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream with Hyaluronic Acid, Jojoba, + Squalane | Oil Free, Lightweight, Moisturizing | EWG Verified, Vegan + Cruelty Free | 1.7 fl oz

The Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream is a face cream that helps to soften and firm your skin. This cream is infused with two types of hyaluronic acid, which refreshes and cools your skin on application. The cream is dermatologist tested, cruelty-free, vegan, and EWG certified. It comes in 100% tree-free paper carton, and it won the 2019 Byrdie Skincare Awards.

What We Like
Lightweight texture
Deep hydration
Non-greasy finish
Good for sensitive skin
Affordable price point
What We Don't Like
Potential ingredient concerns
Not heavy enough for winter
#TOP 10

CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel

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B0C7HHKH3G
CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel Cover
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel, Hydrating Gel Face Moisturizer with Ceramides, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Fragrance Free, Oil-Free, Weightless Mattifying Moisturizer, 1.75 FL Oz

CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer is a water-based facial moisturizer that provides immediate and long-lasting hydration while helping to maintain the skin's protective barrier. This gel moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and has a weightless feel on the skin. It is fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for everyday use. The gel formula is fast-absorbing and glides onto the skin easily, leaving it feeling refreshed and moisturized. With the power of three essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer helps to restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer is a trusted choice for those looking for a lightweight and effective hydrating solution.

What We Like
Lightweight gel formula
Quick absorption
Non-greasy finish
Hydrating without irritation
Fragrance-free
What We Don't Like
Some packaging issues
Possible reaction for some users
Buying Guide Image

Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right Paraben-Free Face Moisturizers

Introduction to Paraben-Free Face Moisturizers

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards using beauty and skincare products that are free from certain chemicals and ingredients. One such ingredient that has come under scrutiny is parabens. Parabens are a group of preservatives that are commonly used in a wide variety of beauty and personal care products, including face moisturizers. While they are effective at preventing the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, some studies have suggested that they may be linked to certain health concerns. As a result, many people are now seeking out paraben-free face moisturizers as a safer alternative.

Understanding Parabens

Parabens are a type of preservative that are used to prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in beauty and skincare products. They are effective at low concentrations and are widely used in a variety of products, including face moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, and makeup. Parabens are typically found in the form of esters, which are created by combining para-hydroxybenzoic acid with an alcohol. The most commonly used parabens in beauty and skincare products are methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.

Health Concerns Associated with Parabens

While parabens are generally considered safe for use in beauty and skincare products, some studies have suggested that they may be linked to certain health concerns. For example, some studies have found that parabens can mimic the activity of the hormone estrogen in the body. This can lead to a condition known as estrogen dominance, which has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and other health problems. Additionally, some studies have found that parabens can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, where they can potentially cause harm.

Choosing a Paraben-Free Face Moisturizer

If you are concerned about the potential health effects of parabens, you may want to consider switching to a paraben-free face moisturizer. There are many options available on the market, and choosing the right one for your skin type and needs can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision:

  • Look for products that are labeled as "paraben-free" or "preservative-free." This will help ensure that the product does not contain any parabens or other potentially harmful preservatives.
  • Read the ingredient list carefully. In addition to avoiding parabens, you should also look for other potentially harmful ingredients, such as fragrances, dyes, and sulfates.
  • Choose a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, look for a moisturizer that is specifically designed for these skin types.
  • Consider the type of moisturizer. Some people prefer a light, lotion-like moisturizer, while others prefer a thicker, cream-based moisturizer. Choose the type that feels best on your skin and provides the level of moisture that your skin needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, paraben-free face moisturizers are a safe and effective alternative to traditional moisturizers that contain parabens. By choosing a paraben-free moisturizer, you can avoid exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and ingredients, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and hydrated complexion. By following the tips outlined above, you can easily find a paraben-free moisturizer that is right for your skin type and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should moisturizer be paraben free?

Yes, it is recommended to use paraben-free moisturizers. Scientific studies have shown that parabens can disrupt hormone function and potentially cause harm to reproductive organs. Parabens in body lotion can also make the skin more brittle and prone to inflammation. Choosing paraben-free face moisturizers ensures that you are using products that are safer and less likely to have adverse effects on your health and skin.

Editor's Notes

During our paraben-free face moisturizer research, we found 48 paraben-free face moisturizer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 476,476 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paraben-free face moisturizers list. We found that most customers choose paraben-free face moisturizers with an average price of $17.33.

The paraben-free face moisturizers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paraben-free face moisturizers, including COSRX, Aveeno, Vanicream, La Roche-Posay, Neutrogena. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 5,524 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Paraben-Free Face Moisturizers Comparison Table

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#TOP3
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#TOP5
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand COSRX Aveeno Vanicream La Roche-Posay Neutrogena COSRX COSRX Aveeno Honest Beauty CeraVe
Item Volume 100 Milliliters 141 Milliliters 3 Fluid Ounces 3.38 Fluid Ounces 3.4 Fluid Ounces 100 Milliliters 100 Milliliters 1.7 Fluid Ounces 1.7 Fluid Ounces 1.75 Fluid Ounces
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult All Ages Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Teen, Adult Adult
Special Feature Hypoallergenic Lightweight Fragrance-Free - Lightweight, Non Comedogenic Not Tested On Animals, Hypoallergenic, Natural Ingredients Hypoallergenic Not-Applicable Natural-Ingredients Lightweight, Non Comedogenic
Item dimensions L x W x H 0.79 x 1.18 x 5.51 inches - 2.5 x 1.5 x 6.25 inches 1.5 x 3.2 x 5.7 inches - 2 x 2 x 1.5 inches 1 x 0.8 x 7.1 inches 2.65 x 2.65 x 4 inches 3 x 2.9 x 2 inches 1.4 x 1.85 x 5.5 inches
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy