21 Best natural face moisturizers of 2023

When it comes to a healthy complexion, regular use of a quality facial moisturizer makes all the difference. Keeping the skin hydrated, nourished, and protected is key to combating signs of aging and maintain a youthful glow. Dysregulated moisture levels in the skin can lead to excess oil, inflammation, flakiness, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. Remedy your skin concerns with a well-formulated product tailored to your skin type.

Experts agree that it is best to skip skincare products made with harmful synthetic ingredients, such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates. These pesky additives have been linked to numerous dangerous side effects. Instead, opt for products made of active natural ingredients that offer safe skincare benefits.

Take a look at our extensive lineup of the 21 best natural face moisturizers of 2023 to find your perfect moisturizer and reveal your best skin yet. If you are unsure where to start, skip below to our FAQ section for guidance.

1. Blu Atlas | Face Moisturizer

Nourish, protect, and rejuvenate your skin with this ultra-hydrating daily moisturizer from top clean skincare brand Blu Atlas. The active botanical formula delivers both hydration and anti-aging benefits with a lineup of all-star ingredients, including antioxidant-rich mango butter and seaweed extract. This potent infusion of vitamins C and E stimulates collagen production for firmer, smoother skin, while gently brightening and balancing oil production to deliver a healthy, youthful complexion.

Blu Atlas products are as clean they come, free of harmful synthetic ingredients, and ideal for all skin types. Customers love the gentle, natural fragrance—a refreshing touch to this restorative formula.

2. The Ordinary. | Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

For lightweight, balancing hydration, try this non-greasy moisturizer from popular clinical brand The Ordinary, known for straightforward skincare treatments at competitive prices. This daily moisturizer is made with an impressive range of superhero hydrating ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and triglycerides. The synergistic blend boosts your skin’s moisture barrier and absorption, delivering deep, lasting hydration. This pH-balanced formula is free of harmful synthetics and fillers, featuring only quality, active ingredients.

Remedy dry skin with this simple, clean, and effective daily option from The Ordinary.

3. Youth to the People | Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream

This award-winning moisturizer from Youth to the People is like a multi-vitamin for your skin, made with a proprietary blend of skin superfoods and restorative natural hydrators. The naturally scented gel-cream features extracts of spinach, kale, alfalfa, and green tea, rich in anti-aging phytonutrients and antioxidants. Plus, hyaluronic acid furnishes instant, lasting hydration to combat dryness and boost the skin’s firmness and elasticity. Regular use is guaranteed to reverse the signs of free radical damage and fortify your skin to maintain a youthful glow.

Lightweight, clean, and sustainably sourced, this plant-powered daily moisturizer is another great choice for all skin types.

4. OleHenriksen | C-Rush Brightening Gel Crème

Professional-grade skincare brand OleHenriksen was one of the first to champion the brightening and anti-aging benefits of vitamin C in facial care products. Their best-selling daily moisturizer features a powerful blend of three types of highly stable vitamin C to visibly illuminate, firm, and smooth the complexion. The innovative gel crème formula delivers instant hydration that lasts for up to 24 hours and is subtly tinted to immediately even and brighten the skin.

Enjoy a rapid reversal of visible signs of aging with regular use of this potent rejuvenating moisturizer. Free of sulfates, phthalates, and parabens, this energizing product is suitable for all types of skin.

5. Belif | Problem Solution Moisturizer

Soothe and protect sensitive and acne-prone skin with this lightweight daily moisturizer from renowned Korean skincare brand Belif, known for its clean, herbal ingredients and cutting-edge formulations.

This top-rated moisturizer delivers calming hydration and targeted treatment for troubled skin, featuring antioxidant-rich tea tree oil and white willow bark extract. The gentle yet effective blend heals and prevents blemishes with natural exfoliants and fortifies the skin while reducing inflammation.

Balance and restore your skin with this paraben- and sulfate-free remedy, a top choice for oily and sensitive skin.

6. Dr. Barbara Sturm | Face Cream Rich

This potent anti-aging moisturizer from medical-grade skincare brand Dr. Barbara Sturm is a game-changer for dry, dull, and sensitive skin. The concentrated formula calms, balances, and illuminates the complexion with a powerful blend of antioxidants and botanical oils, including regenerative purslane extract, skullcap, and vitamin E. Natural emollients such as avocado oil hydrate, restore, and fortify the skin with abundant micronutrients that promote collagen production and cellular renewal.

Hydrate, firm, and refresh your skin with this scientifically proven facial cream from Dr. Sturm. The gluten-free formula is safe for all skin types and especially beneficial for mature skin that requires extra hydration.

7. Ghost Democracy | Clean Lightweight Daily Face Moisturizer

Next, we recommend this intensely hydrating and quick-absorbing moisturizer from Ghost Democracy, a rising star in the ultra-clean and affordable skincare market. This non-greasy formula features high concentrations of protective and restorative natural ingredients, such as anti-inflammatory probiotics, fortifying oat seed extract with niacinamide, and ultra-hydrating panthenol. The fragrance-free cream delivers hours of calming moisture for visibly healthier skin.

Suitable for both day and nighttime use, this nourishing and comforting blend is free of harsh irritants and synthetic fillers. It is a wonderful balancing option for all skin types.

8. Awake Human | Organic Facial Moisturizer

This advanced all-natural moisturizer from Awake Human hydrates, softens, and smooths the skin with a unique matte-finish formula. It is made with a luxurious blend of organic botanical oils, including safflower, sweet almond, and jojoba, which fortify and protect the skin as they deliver deep and lasting hydration. Plus, green tea extract reduces signs of aging, while shea butter and plant-derived glycerides soften and moisturize with a non-greasy aftertouch.

Perfect for sensitive skin, this unscented and pH-balanced daily moisturizer is a great choice for gentle hydration with anti-aging benefits.

9. Ursa Major | Fortifying Face Balm

Nourish and rejuvenate your skin with this silky botanical elixir from award-winning natural brand Ursa Major. The lightweight daily moisturizer delivers instant hydration and more youthful skin, featuring an all-star blend of active natural ingredients, such as aloe, birch sap, carrot, olive, and willow bark. The potent combo conditions and soothes the skin while naturally fighting wrinkles and discoloration with regenerative compounds, including vitamin A and beta-carotene.

This effective, clean product is lightly scented with essential oils of rosemary, spearmint, and lavender. You can’t go wrong with this gentle and effective balm from Ursa Major.

10. La Roche-Posay | Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Next, we recommend this oil-free balancing moisturizer from dermatologist-recommended brand La-Roche Posay. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly to deliver instant hydration that lasts for up to 48 hours. Enriched with a host of advanced restorative ingredients, this moisturizer calms inflammation and fortifies the skin barrier. It features cutting-edge prebiotics, ceramides, and antioxidants, as well as the brand’s signature nourishing Thermal Water.

Try this clean, fragrance-free product for instant calming moisture. Suitable for all skin types, it is especially beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.

11. Ceylon | Facial Moisturizer

Hydrate, clear, and tone the skin with this non-comedogenic daily moisturizer from Ceylon, an innovator in skincare products designed for men of color. This lightweight formula features extra protective and healing ingredients to treat sensitive and ingrown-prone skin. The effective, dermatologist-recommended blend is popular among all demographics due to its all-star lineup of anti-inflammatory and anti-aging ingredients, including exfoliating AHAs, ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, and clarifying niacinamide.

Say goodbye to inflammation, acne, and scarring with this expert formulation for pigmented skin that has gained loyal customers of all ethnicities.

12. ArtNaturals | Tea Tree Facial Moisturizer

This soothing and nourishing cream from premium natural brand ArtNaturals is an excellent option for acne-prone skin. The deluxe daily moisturizer detoxes, smooths, and protects the skin with an active blend of tea tree essential oil and panthenol, both rich in rejuvenating antioxidants. Tea tree oil acts as a natural antimicrobial to treat and prevent acne, while panthenol balances your skin’s sebum levels to restore proper hydration.

Smooth this refreshing formula over your face and neck twice daily for a visibly clearer, smoother, and healthier complexion.

13. Juice Beauty | Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer

For luxurious hydration and targeted treatment of visible signs of aging, try this clinically proven daily moisturizer from Juice Beauty, a leading brand in advanced organic skincare solutions. This best-seller features a proprietary complex of fruit-derived stem cells, vitamin C, and grape resveratrol to firm, brighten, and fortify the skin. Plus, a deeply hydrating blend of shea and all-natural emollients soften and protect the complexion to turn back the clock.

Revive your skin the natural way with Juice Beauty’s clean, sustainably sourced moisturizer, guaranteed to visibly improve your complexion within just six weeks.

14. Honest Beauty | Hydrogel Cream

Instantly quench dry, parched skin with this award-winning moisturizer from eco-friendly brand Honest Beauty. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula immediately cools and refreshes the skin and reduces wrinkles with a multi-active blend of superstar hydrating ingredients. It is packed with two types of hyaluronic acid that restore moisture and collagen to both the surface and deeper layers of the skin. Plus, ultra-emollient squalane and jojoba oil combine to nourish and soften the skin for a dewy glow.

Use this weightless moisturizer daily to balance thirsty skin. The trusted formula is free of synthetic fragrances and fillers, a safe choice for all skin types.

15. Dr. Tusk | Moisturizer

Made of 99% natural ingredients, this lightweight, non-greasy daily moisturizer from Dr. Tusk is another great plant-powered option. The affordable and ethically sourced formula soothes and brightens the skin while combating wrinkles to reveal a youthful, glowing complexion. Featuring a potent proprietary complex of hempseed oil, caffeine, and aloe, this nourishing blend heals and tones the skin with abundant omega fatty acids and antioxidants.

All skin types can enjoy instant and lasting hydration with this gentle anti-aging moisturizer from Dr. Tusk, a leading brand in sustainable personal care.

16. Tata Harper | Water-Lock Moisturizer

High-performance natural brand Tata Harper brings you balanced, sustained hydration with this lightweight moisturizer. The active formula combats discoloration, dullness, and dryness with an advanced blend of humectants, including hyaluronic acid, orange peptides, and pomegranate spheres. The moisture-locking technology floods your skin with deep and enduring hydration, softening and brightening the surface for a youthful radiance.

Massage this luxurious, handcrafted moisturizer onto your face and neck twice daily for rapid results.

17. Biossance | Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer

Soothe inflamed skin with this featherlight hydrating gel from Biossance, a pioneering brand in clean and sustainable skincare innovations. This refreshing daily moisturizer combats redness, enlarged pores, and congestion with a calming blend of probiotics, ginger extract, and red seaweed. It also features squalane, which strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier to reveal a visibly brighter, clearer complexion.

Restore and protect stressed skin using this clinically proven, fragrance-free gel moisturizer from a trusted name in plant-based treatments.

18. Kiehl’s | Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

Combat shine and excess oil with this cooling and ultra-hydrating gel from Kiehl’s. The unscented formula absorbs quickly to deliver lasting moisture and oil control, reducing pore size and balancing the complexion with a matte finish. A great option for normal and oily skin types, this non-comedogenic formula includes an advanced blend of amino acids, glycoproteins, and glycerin to regulate sebum production and restore healthy moisture levels.

Try this allergy-tested and residue-free moisturizer to maintain a fresh, shine-free complexion.

19. Aveeno | Daily Moisturizing Face Cream

This gentle, nourishing moisturizer from clinically proven brand Aveeno is another recommended choice to quench dry skin. The rich cream supplies up to 24 hours of hydration with a soothing blend of non-GMO oat flour and glycerin. Abundant in antioxidants and conditioning compounds, this protective formula absorbs quickly to instantly replenish tired, dehydrated skin.

For sustained hydration, you can’t go wrong with this dermatologist-recommended and fragrance-free option from Aveeno.

20. Aesop | Perfect Facial Hydrating Cream

Treat your skin to replenishing hydration with a non-greasy finish using this premium moisturizer from Aesop, an insider favorite when it comes to high-performance premium skincare. The luxurious cream formula softens and smooths the skin with an enriching blend of vitamins C and E, as well as shea butter and jojoba. Plus, frankincense adds a sensual fragrance as well as powerful antioxidant protection.

Reveal silky, soft skin with this nourishing botanical blend from Aesop, a top source for quality plant-based options with clinically proven results.

21. CeraVe | Facial Moisturizing Lotion

Closing our list is this lightweight, oil-free moisturizer from dermatologist-recommended brand CeraVe. The gentle, fragrance-free lotion delivers lasting hydration with an active blend of ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a patented slow-release delivery formula, guaranteeing up to 24 hours of moisture. This deeply restorative blend works to strengthen the skin’s barrier and boost water absorption for a healthier, more resilient complexion.

Don’t miss this nourishing, protective daily moisturizer, a great choice for all skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a natural face moisturizer, and why do I need one?

Natural face moisturizers safely offer the following benefits.

• Balance the skin to prevent redness, dryness, flakes, excess oil, and acne.

• Fortify the skin to protect from the aging effects of free radical damage, including discoloration, sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles.

• Reverse visible signs of aging and maintain a healthy, youthful glow.

To be classed as natural, face moisturizers must be made without toxic synthetic chemicals and comprise a majority of botanical active ingredients. Unfortunately, many skincare products are made with harmful synthetic additives that are known to have numerous grave side effects, including cancer, endocrine disorders, organ damage, and infertility. So, it is crucial to avoid these ingredients and use only products made of clean, natural ingredients.

Not only are natural face moisturizers safer, but they are also more beneficial, featuring powerfully therapeutic botanical compounds and innovative, proven formulations. Don’t skip your natural daily moisturizer, a simple remedy with long-lasting benefits.

How do I choose the right natural face moisturizer?

Your choice of face moisturizer will depend on your skin type. Here are the recommended choices for the main skin types.

Normal/combination skin

This is the most common skin type. If you have normal or combo skin, choose non-greasy, water-based moisturizers with lighter consistencies for balanced hydration.

Oily/acne-prone skin

If you experience excess oil and blemishes, go for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers that feature gentle acne-fighting ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids. Also, look for formulas that regulate sebum production to decrease oiliness and shine.

Dry/itchy skin

If you have dry or itchy skin, choose a heavier, oil-based moisturizer with conditioning ingredients that strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier. Formulas with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are great options.

Sensitive skin

Those with sensitive skin should opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free moisturizers that contain natural soothing ingredients such as aloe vera and antioxidants.

Mature skin

Mature or aging skin benefits from heavier, oil-based formulas made with protective and restorative ingredients such as peptides, antioxidants, and caffeine.

Keep in mind that your skin type and concerns may shift over time due to factors like climate, age, hormones, and lifestyle. For example, you may need a heavier moisturizer in the cold winter months, and a lightweight gel in the summer heat. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to various products, and always opt for non-irritating, nutrient-based formulas. Be sure to consult a dermatologist if you experience severe or lasting discomfort.

When choosing among the best natural face moisturizers, you may also consider your personal preference of fragrance, as well as sustainable business practices. Many of the skincare brands we featured above advertise eco-friendly production processes and environmental protection initiatives.

How do I use a natural face moisturizer?

Now that you have selected the best natural face moisturizer for you, follow these steps to get maximum benefits.

1. Start with clean, dry skin. If your regimen includes a toner, serum, or eye cream, apply these first in the correct order.

2. Dispense a pea-sized amount of moisturizer onto your palm, and gently rub your palms together to warm the product. This enables smooth, even application.

3. Start with your cheeks, gently applying the moisturizer in circular motions.

4. Next, move on to the forehead, t-zone, and neck using gentle upward motions.

5. Enjoy hydrated, balanced skin. Follow your moisturizer with sunscreen during the daytime.

What are the best ingredients in a natural face moisturizer?

Always go for clean ingredients with proven skincare benefits, such as the following.

Antioxidants

These compounds reverse the damaging effects of oxidative stress from environmental aggressors such as pollution and sun exposure, while fortifying the skin against future damage. Topically applied antioxidants boost collagen production to combat fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. They also increase cell turnover to speed healing and brighten dark spots.

Antioxidants go by many names. A few heavy hitters to look out for are vitamins A, C, and E, as well as niacinamide (vitamin B3). Naturally rich sources of antioxidants include green tea, essential oils, and botanical extracts.

Hyaluronic Acid

This powerful humectant boosts the skin’s water absorption exponentially to deliver plumping, firming hydration. This popular and effective topical moisturizer is oil-free and great for all skin types. Plus, it facilitates collagen production to further boost skin firmness and resilience.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a beneficial active ingredient, working to stimulate blood circulation in the skin. This combats puffiness, soothes inflammation, and delivers firmer, brighter skin.

Peptides

These amino acid chains are the main components of collagen, elastin, and keratin, the essential building blocks of the skin. When topically applied, peptides fortify, firm, and smooth the skin to remedy fine lines and loss of elasticity. They also strengthen the skin’s protective barrier to boost moisture retention while soothing inflammation. Peptides are especially useful in targeted anti-aging treatments.

Aloe vera

This skincare superhero provides deep hydration and abundant antioxidants that soothe, detox, and fortify the skin. It also stimulates collagen production to combat wrinkles and fade discolorations. Plus, it has gentle exfoliating enzymes that clarify, tone, and brighten the skin.

Glycerin

This humectant increases the skin’s surface hydration and boosts collagen production to condition, smooth, and soften. It also fortifies the skin against external aggressors and speeds wound healing.

Shea butter

Shea butter naturally hydrates and softens dry skin while providing antioxidant protection from oxidative stress.

Jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is a great natural moisturizer that offers antioxidant and antibacterial protection, also balancing out the skin’s sebum levels. It is an excellent choice for acne-prone skin.

Ceramides

These fatty acids create a protective barrier on the skin to seal in moisture and combat dryness and irritation. Restoration of the skin barrier softens and smooths the complexion for visibly healthier skin. Ceramides also help your skin to tolerate stronger skincare treatments and facilitate collagen production for anti-aging benefits.

What ingredients should I avoid in a face moisturizer?

Unfortunately, many companies use toxic synthetic chemicals in their formulations, from fillers to preservatives. Exposure to these chemicals in personal care products not only irritates the skin but has been linked to serious health problems. It is important to thoroughly read product labels, and purchase products from trusted, clean brands. Here are some common harmful ingredients to avoid in your face moisturizer.

Sulfates

These foaming agents are known to irritate the eyes and skin. Plus, long-term exposure has been linked to cancer as well as multiple organ damage, including the kidneys and respiratory system.

Synthetic fragrance

Engineered scents are often made with highly toxic chemicals whose harmful effects range from allergic irritation to endocrine disruption, infertility, and cancer. Choose products with natural fragrances made from organic essential oils.

Phthalates

These texturizing chemicals are common in skincare products. Long-term exposure has been linked to endocrine disruption, birth defects, and multiple organ damage.

Parabens

Often used as preservatives, these chemicals irritate the skin and interfere with hormonal function.

Triclosan

Used in many skin care products for its antimicrobial properties, this chemical is linked to hormone disruption and thyroid damage. It is even banned in many countries.

As you can see, it is important to shop for all-natural skincare products without harmful side effects.

We hope that you enjoyed our extensive list of the best natural face moisturizers of 2023. You are guaranteed to find the perfect moisturizer for your skin type from this selection of high-performance botanical formulations. Whether you are in the market for a luxury anti-aging cream, or an ultra-affordable and lightweight daily emulsion, there is no need to compromise quality for affordability and safety.

Put your best face forward with an effective daily moisturizer that protects, balances, and rejuvenates your complexion with only the finest natural ingredients.