In a hurry? Here are our top picks:

Millions of people have sensitive skin.

The best hypoallergenic moisturizers for sensitive skin types are usually fused with natural ingredients and free of synthetic chemicals. They are suitable for all skin types, and they are created not to cause irritation.

In our list, we look at the 5 best hypoallergenic moisturizers that keep you hydrated without you developing an allergic reaction.

Read further to find a detailed review of each moisturizer that made our list. We will discuss what makes them great options also highlight the things to be aware of and who they are most suitable for.

We have made sure there is something for everyone.

Quick summary

Before you buy: 7 Things to consider when purchasing a hypoallergenic moisturizer

Before you rush out to buy a hypoallergenic moisturizer, do some homework. Hypoallergenic moisturizers are created mostly for sensitive skin.

As such, they tend to be milder and have fewer properties than other moisturizers.

Their main function is to hydrate, and some of them only serve that purpose. Here are a few things to know before you buy one for yourself.

1. Skin type

Do you have sensitive skin? This is important. You may have oily, dry, combination, or even oily skin but do you also have sensitive skin? By sensitive, we mean, do you break out in a rash the moment you apply something?

Do you break out into a rash, hives, wheals, and flares? Does a cream make you break out wildly? Is there blotchiness, redness, or burning on any application of the product?

If your answer is yes to any of the above questions, then you have sensitive skin, and a hypoallergenic moisturizer might be best for you. Even among hypoallergenic moisturizers, some are formulated for dry or oily skin.

Knowing your skin type will help you choose the right one.

2. Gel-based and oil-based

A gel or water-based hypoallergenic moisturizer is suitable for people with oily and combination skin. On the other hand, oil-based hypoallergenic moisturizers are more suitable for people with dry and normal skin.

3. Texture

Hypoallergenic moisturizers tend to have different textures based on the skin type they target. And so thicker textures of hypoallergenic moisturizers tend to sit on the skin and gradually absorb into the deeper layers over many minutes.

It could feel weighty and dense until it is fully absorbed. These are great emollient moisturizers for those with very dry skin, eczema, and dermatoses. Lightweight formulas tend to feel non-greasy and are absorbed more rapidly into the skin.

4. Allergens

What are you allergic to? Review the ingredient list before you buy it. Many individuals are also allergic to natural ingredients like honey and citrus.

Hypoallergenic moisturizers tend to have fewer chemicals, but it is up to you to identify any allergens and select the best moisturizer.

Sometimes, it may not be the ingredients but the colors, the dyes, or the fragrance that can make you allergic or breathless. Know what’s right for you!

5. Don’t take “dermatologist recommended” at face value

You may see many hypoallergenic moisturizers that say this is a dermatologist-recommended choice. Treat this statement with caution. How many dermatologists recommend it? Where are these dermatologists based? Who did they test it on?

The label “dermatologist recommended” can be a marketing gimmick to demonstrate some sort of clinical endorsement. This isn’t always true, and you shouldn’t be an influencing factor when deciding which moisturizer to buy.

6. Frequency of use and single-ingredient products

Hypoallergenic moisturizers are mild and so can be used twice a day. Dermatologists do recommend single ingredient moisturizers or products that have fewer ingredients for people with sensitive skin.

This helps reduce the reaction, especially in those who are super sensitive due to fresh eczema or those recovering from a chemical burn.

7. Patch test first (if possible)

If you have sensitive skin, try and use a sample. Do a skin patch test on your neck first, to see how your skin reacts to a particular product (if possible).

Hypoallergenic moisturizers tend to be expensive because the ingredients are fewer and often naturally sourced. Plenty of research and development goes into their formulation, and so they are priced higher. A skin patch test can help ensure you buy the right product.

The 5 best hypoallergenic moisturizers

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer is not just one that is less prone to make you break out but also ones that hydrates, nourishes, and soothes the skin.

Here are our top five hypoallergenic moisturizers.

Unique features:

• Made uniquely by hand
• Eye-catching airless pump bottle
• Hypoallergenic–organic plant-based formula

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer for:

Those looking for an all-arounder clean and natural moisturizer

Notable ingredients:

Jojoba, calendula, clary sage

Overview:

ZELEN Life’s Moisturizer is a premium moisturizer that boosts hydration to your daily skincare routine. All of the moisturizer’s benefits come from its organic and expertly sourced ingredients. Its key ingredients are jojoba, calendula, and clary sage, making it suitable for most skin types, even the most sensitive ones.

Jojoba is known for its plethora of anti-acne and anti-aging properties. It reduces the effect of fine lines and wrinkles while speeding up the skin’s healing process. It also balances the amount of sebum produced by reducing skin’s excessive oil, which is often the prime cause of acne breakouts.

Calendula provides great moisturization while soothing the skin. This makes it a great option for reducing skin conditions such as eczema, flakiness, and dermatitis.

Clary sage tightens and rejuvenates the skin, giving it a youthful appearance. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties assist in healing irritated skin while reducing the growth of bacteria. Due to its antimicrobial properties, clary sage oil can also treat wounds and skin infections caused by bacteria, such as staphylococcus.[1]

ZELEN Life’s Moisturizer, unlike many other moisturizers, has a very lightweight and fast-absorbing formula without losing its hydration capabilities. I found myself not needing to re-apply it throughout the day. Even when I chose to top up with some hydration, the airless pump bottle made it easy to dispense the right amount quickly and efficiently.

While this moisturizer doesn’t contain any artificial fragrance, it does contain a lovely citrus/floral scent derived from its botanical ingredients. It is not overpowering and fades away after a subtle amount of time. The ZELEN Life Moisturizer does come with anti-aging properties, but if you’re looking for a stronger action, then consider Vichy’s LiftActiv Supreme Night Cream. It contains rhamnose and vitamin C, which are extremely known for their effectiveness on wrinkles.

The good:

Things to think about:

Bottom line:

This is an excellent hypoallergenic moisturizer for those with problem skin such as acne or eczema. It’s bio-active, organic formula soothes and calms inflamed areas while providing the skin with valuable hydration.

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Unique features:

• Restores radiance
• Contains salicylic acid
• Prevents premature aging

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer for:

Dry to very dry skin types, and those with dull/sluggish skin looking for more radiance.

Notable ingredients:

Salicylic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, sunflower, apple seed extract

Overview:

Bioderma’s Hydrabio Cream is a moisturizer that provides great hydration and restores visible radiance. It is formulated with ingredients, such as salicylic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, sunflower, and apple seed extract,

Salicylic acid removes dead skin cells from the skin’s surface while smoothing it out. It soothes inflammation and acne breakouts by weakening bacteria and reducing redness. Niacinamide is acting as an antioxidant. It can improve epidermal barrier function, combat hyperpigmentation, decrease dark spots, and reduce signs of aging. It can also decrease irritations, such as redness, and improve skin elasticity.[2]

Glycerin is responsible for providing intense hydration to the skin, leaving it refreshed and calm. Sunflower and apple seed extracts also enhance the hydration of the skin, while their vitamins and antioxidants (C & E) help to reduce any signs of aging.[3]

Bioderma’s Hydrabio Cream is a moisturizer that has a thicker creamy texture. This provides rich hydration to skin types that are flaky and extremely dry. While very hydrating, you might find it a little greasy and difficult to absorb if you apply a large amount onto your skin. To avoid this, only a small amount should be applied to get its benefits.

Its scent is also a little stronger than I would normally prefer in a hydrating cream. However, I didn’t completely dislike it. As this is a scented formula, you should consider an alternative moisturizer if you are irritated by strong fragrances. ZELEN Life provides great hydration while its scent is subtle and comes purely from its botanical ingredients. With no artificial fragrances, you might find it more suitable if you have sensitive skin.

If you have an oily skin type, then you might find Dermalogica Gel a better option. It is very lightweight and doesn’t have the thick consistency of this cream while still very moisturizing. It is water-based, helping to balance moisture and excess oil on the skin.

The good:

Things to think about:

Bottom line:

This is a great hypoallergenic moisturizer for lackluster and dull skin in need of kicking back into life.

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Unique features:

• Soothes very dry skin
• Reduces tightness
• Ultra-rich texture

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer for:

Dry, sensitive skin that is peeling or flaking.

Notable ingredients:

Glycerin, shea butter, chestnut, sunflower

Overview:

The Ultra-Rich Comforting Cream from L’Occitane is a rich moisturizer that provides an all-day hydration effect. Like Bioderma Hydrabio Cream, it was created with the goal of nourishing and protecting skin that demands a lot of moisture.

Glycerin retains the moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated for longer periods. It relieves itchiness from dryness and reduces irritations such as redness, leaving it refreshed. Shea butter has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It offers great hydration action and soothes the skin due to its fatty acids and healing properties.[4] It also contains chestnut seed extract and sunflower seed oil. These are responsible for reducing the feeling of tightness.

Chestnut seeds are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids. Thus, they provide all-around benefits to the skin. They protect from everyday environmental stressors such as UV-rays, neutralize harmful free radicals, and balance skin tone.

Overall, this is a thick cream that is closely comparable with Bioderma Hydrabio Cream. While both provide unrivaled hydration, I found L’Occitane’s Cream to be a little lighter and less greasy when over-applied. So for those looking for a daily moisturizer to use under makeup then this is a solid choice.

However, like Bioderma’s moisturizer, L’Occitane’s Ultra-Rich Comforting Cream also has a strong scent. If you are allergic to fragrance, then I recommend you should avoid this one too. As mentioned, the ZELEN Life Moisturizer is a natural scent option or for unscented, consider Dermatologica’s Calm Water Gel.

If you are in need of a cream that provides great hydration but has stronger anti-aging capabilities, then Vichy LiftActiv Supreme Night Cream might be more suitable for you. It is a very moisturizing cream that contains rhamnose and vitamin C, which is very effective in reducing signs of aging. However, it is a little bit more expensive.

The good:

Things to think about:

Bottom line:

L’Occitane’s Ultra-Rich Comforting Cream is an ideal moisturizer for sensitive skin with peeling and flakiness. If you are looking for an ultra-rich moisturizer that gives an intense moisturization, then it is worthy of the high price tag.

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Unique features:

• Provides immediate hydration to dry, irritated skin
• Softens, soothes, and calms
• Locks in moisture and defends skin against dryness

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer for:

Sensitive, oily skin.

Notable ingredients:

Aloe vera, apple fruit, cactus, lavender oil, hyaluronic acid

Overview:

Dermalogica’s Calm Water Gel is a moisturizer in the form of a gel that is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and oily skin. Its main ingredients include aloe vera, apple fruit, hyaluronic acid, cactus, and lavender oil, which in combination provide all-around benefits to the skin.

Look here:

Aloe vera is considered a significant ingredient in skincare. Not only does it act as a moisturizer, but also it assists in reducing signs of aging (due to its vitamins C and E content). It may also assist acne (due to its anti-inflammatory properties).

Apple fruit is rich in AHA acids and vitamins. AHAs create a barrier on the skin’s surface without clogging the pores, which helps the skin retain water and prevent the loss of hydration. It also removes dead skin cells and cleans the pores which can promote a brighter and nourished appearance.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) helps with hydration, wound healing, and regeneration of tissues. Whatsmore, cactus has many anti-inflammatory, antioxidants and antibacterial properties.[5][6]

These ingredients combined with the inclusion of lavender make Dermalogica’s Calm Water Gel a great option for acne-prone skin. Lavender is rich in antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making it a very potent ingredient to soothe and heal the skin from blemishes.

Unlike some other thick moisturizers on our list, this gel has a very lightweight texture and doesn’t leave a greasy residue. You will certainly love how it glides and soaks into your skin. As for the scent, it has a natural citrusy lavender scent that is balanced, and not overwhelming. While I liked the scent, I have noticed in user reviews that some say it smells medicinal. Something to keep in mind!

The packaging is on the simple side and doesn’t pack many punches. For a Dermalogica product and a premium price point, I would expect a bit higher quality but this is not enough to deter me away from this product.

The good:

Things to think about:

Bottom line:

This is an excellent hypoallergenic moisturizer for those with dry skin who are looking for fast-acting weightless water-based gel.

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Unique features:

• Anti-wrinkle, hypoallergenic moisturizer
• Paraben-free
• Allergy tested

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer for:

Sensitive skin with wrinkles.

Notable ingredients:

Rhamnose, vitamin C

Overview:

Unfortunately, aging is a fact of life. It’s unavoidable. But even if you are getting older, it doesn’t mean you should look “your age.”

Vichy’s LiftActiv Supreme is a night cream moisturizer geared for people who want to reduce signs of aging. Its main ingredients are rhamnose and vitamin C.

What is rhamnose?

Rhamnose is a deoxy sugar derived from plants such as buckthorn, poison sumac, and birch trees. Various studies provide evidence that rhamnose is beneficial on the papillary dermis and dermal-epidermal junction, both areas affected by skin aging. It has been shown to improve collagen production and rejuvenate the skin, reducing this way wrinkles and fine lines. [7]

Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that provides many benefits to the skin. It aids in the production of collagen and provides antioxidant protection against UV damage. This can help promote brighter, healthier, and younger-looking skin.[8]

The ingredients above are fused together to formulate a hypoallergenic cream that is non-greasy and gentle. When applying, I didn’t find it to be sticky or feel like I have clogged pores the next morning. This night cream will certainly provide that boost of long-lasting hydration that leaves the skin fresh and smooth.

The most significant drawback of this cream is its price. If you are looking for a more affordable moisturizer that can double-up as a night cream while also offering anti-aging capabilities, then consider Bioderma’s Hydrabio Cream. It has a thicker texture and includes ingredients such as sunflower and apple, which are rich in vitamin E & C and are well-known for their effectiveness against wrinkles. The choice is yours!

The good:

Things to think about:

Bottom line:

This is a wonderful hypoallergenic moisturizer for sensitive skin, as well as aged skin with wrinkles.

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How we chose these products

We looked at many characteristics as we searched for the best hypoallergenic moisturizer. The first thing we considered was chemicals. Most people are allergic to synthetic chemicals, parabens, and sulfates.

We highlighted this in our list as we mentioned the key ingredients in each product and whether they had or didn’t have any of the above ingredients.

We also looked at skin types. Our list is created keeping in mind the existence of various skin types. We also added water-based and oil-based formulas suitable for acne-prone skin and oily skin.

The list also addresses secondary skin concerns like dull skin, aging skin, and skin peeling due to dryness. There’s a whole range of products to ensure that there’s something for everyone, including price. There’s got to be something for you too.

Frequently asked questions

What causes sensitive skin?

The cause of sensitive skin is inflammation. This is due to the fact that it speeds up the breakdown of collagen and extracellular skin, resulting in redness, flakiness, and irritated skin.

In some individuals, it can be a temporary thing. In others, it ends up being chronic. Sensitive skin linked to rosacea, eczema, lupus, or hormonal issues is usually genetic.

This usually lasts a lifetime, and occasional flareups can be treated symptomatically but not cured away completely. Aging can also make your skin more sensitive. As you age, the skin becomes thinner and drier, making it more vulnerable and sensitive to various chemicals.

What is a hypoallergenic moisturizer?

A hypoallergenic moisturizer is a moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin and usually chemical-free or with fewer chemicals.

How often and when should I apply hypoallergenic moisturizer?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you apply your moisturizer to slightly damp skin after it has been cleaned. If you have a skincare routine, apply the moisturizer to your skin after cleansing and toning.

Also, make sure you’re cleansing the skin just once a day with your fingers. No scrubs, no brush, no loofah or sponge. And no hot water. Use only cold water if you have sensitive skin.

Additionally, for sensitive skin, toners are generally not recommended. Toning the skin removes the top protective layer of lipids in the skin, leaving you with exposed, vulnerable skin that can react easily.

You can use your moisturizer twice a day. However, for those with super sensitive skin or if you are recovering from a chemical burn, it is recommended that you use it once a day.

How to know if I’m allergic to a moisturizer?

It is better to do a patch test before using a hypoallergenic moisturizer. Use it on your neck or the inside of your wrist. Test a small batch or review sample before purchase. If you develop an allergy, then this product may not be suitable for you.

What are the signs of an allergy?

Different skin types react differently in terms of an allergy. It could range from a mild itch to a full-blown breathlessness which requires epinephrine. Everyone is different.

However, you could have symptoms like redness, blotchiness, dryness, itching, wheals, flares, swelling, breathing difficulty, irritation, flaking, or peeling skin.

Those with chemical burns may not even realize the skin is experiencing an allergic reaction as there are no visible signs on the skin, but they feel mild tingling, stinging, or burning sensation.

What do I do in the event of an allergy?

In the event of an allergic reaction, apply an icepack to reduce inflammation and take an anti-histamine, one that you would for your other allergies.

If you develop a change in voice, lip swelling, difficulty breathing, and generalized itching all over the body, head to an emergency room right away.

Can I use makeup with my hypoallergenic moisturizer?

Go easy on the makeup. Don’t spackle yourself up. Foundation and concealer prevent the skin from breathing. It clogs the pores and dries the skin, resulting in more skin imbalances. Try allergen-free makeup but use it sparingly.

What about botanical makeup?

Just because products are plant-based or botanical doesn’t mean they’re less powerful. Many plant-based ingredients are rich in amino acids and complex proteins that can trigger an immune response causing an allergic reaction.

Can I exfoliate?

No. Exfoliation is a big no for sensitive skin. Any scrub or alcohol or acid-based peel will strip the epidermis’ top layer, leaving the dermis exposed.

Do not also use mattifying products as they usually contain silicone, which leaves your skin soft and fresh but damages the skin long term. Avoid anything with alcohol and triclosan.

Embrace products that contain dimethicone, glycerin, and petrolatum.

Can I use a sunscreen?

Yes, you must. Look for a mineral-based sunscreen. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the two most important ones, and some sunscreens have a combination of both.

They form a physical barrier and reflect the sun rays off you instead of absorbing them like chemical sunscreens. Try to get an SPF 15, at least as this will give you 93% protection.

Remember, the higher you go, the more comedogenic ingredients are present in a sunscreen. As with everything else, patch test first.

Is there a cure for sensitive skin?

Various light therapies like laser therapy and pulse light and broadband light therapy can treat skin conditions. You can calm the skin with various anti-inflammatory medications.

However, the primary mechanism is to prevent irritating the skin by minimizing the products you use on your face and maintaining the natural protective barrier.

Conclusion

The best hypoallergenic moisturizer is out there for you.

For many dealing with sensitive skin, it takes a lot of trial and error to find the right moisturizer. This journey is fraught with burns, breakouts, rashes, and redness until you’ve found the “one.”

Have you found the best hypoallergenic moisturizer?

If yes, let us know. We’d like to add it to our list.

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References

1. Sienkiewicz M, Głowacka A, Poznańska-Kurowska K, Kaszuba A, Urbaniak A, Kowalczyk E. The effect of clary sage oil on staphylococci responsible for wound infections. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2015 Feb;32(1):21-6. doi: 10.5114/pdia.2014.40957. Epub 2015 Feb 3. PMID: 25821423; PMCID: PMC4360007.
2. Levin J, Momin SB. How much do we really know about our favorite cosmeceutical ingredients?. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2010;3(2):22-41.
3. Palermo V, Mattivi F, Silvestri R, La Regina G, Falcone C, Mazzoni C. Apple can act as anti-aging on yeast cells. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2012;2012:491759. doi:10.1155/2012/491759
4. Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1):70. Published 2017 Dec 27. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070
5. Bukhari SNA, Roswandi NL, Waqas M, Habib H, Hussain F, Khan S, Sohail M, Ramli NA, Thu HE, Hussain Z. Hyaluronic acid, a promising skin rejuvenating biomedicine: A review of recent updates and pre-clinical and clinical investigations on cosmetic and nutricosmetic effects. Int J Biol Macromol. 2018 Dec;120(Pt B):1682-1695. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.09.188. Epub 2018 Oct 1. PMID: 30287361.
6. El-Mostafa K, El Kharrassi Y, Badreddine A, et al. Nopal cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) as a source of bioactive compounds for nutrition, health and disease. Molecules. 2014;19(9):14879-14901. Published 2014 Sep 17. doi:10.3390/molecules190914879
7. Pageon H, Azouaoui A, Zucchi H, Ricois S, Tran C, Asselineau D. Potentially beneficial effects of rhamnose on skin ageing: an in vitro and in vivo study. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2019 Jun;41(3):213-220. doi: 10.1111/ics.12523. Epub 2019 May 6. PMID: 30845349.
8. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. Published 2017 Aug 12. doi:10.3390/nu9080866