In today’s world, achieving a healthy and glowing complexion is within everyone’s reach, thanks to the abundance of natural and organic skin care products. Integrating a daily skin care regimen using these products is a simple yet effective way to ensure long-term skin health and enhance your natural radiance. Natural Skin Care Products are formulated with essential vitamins, botanicals, and minerals that work in harmony with your skin to heal and restore it, all while being kind to your body and the environment. These products are increasingly becoming the go-to choice for individuals seeking to improve and nurture their skin with accessible and effective solutions.
Why Embrace Natural Skin Care Products?
Opting for natural skin care products is a beneficial choice if you aim to enhance your skin’s health by reducing exposure to artificial ingredients, harsh chemicals, and synthetic fragrances. Many conventional skin care products unfortunately contain harmful chemicals that can compromise skin health and overall well-being. Ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances can disrupt your skin’s natural balance and cause irritation. In contrast, natural skin care harnesses the potent power of plant extracts and natural oils, which are generally gentler on the skin and minimize the risk of adverse reactions. These natural ingredients are also typically richer in essential vitamins and nutrients that are readily absorbed, effectively supporting your skin’s vital barrier function.
Moreover, brands specializing in natural skin care often prioritize sustainable sourcing of their ingredients and are committed to minimizing environmental impact through practices like organic farming and eco-friendly packaging. By choosing clean skin care, you not only reduce your exposure to potentially harmful synthetic substances but also contribute to a healthier planet. It’s a win-win for your skin and for environmental responsibility.
Key Ingredients to Look For and Avoid in Natural Skin Care
When selecting skin care products, understanding which ingredients to avoid is just as crucial as knowing which beneficial ones to seek out. It’s wise to steer clear of harsh components such as parabens, which are preservatives known to potentially disrupt hormone function, and phthalates, often found in synthetic fragrances and linked to health concerns. Synthetic fragrances and artificial dyes are notorious for irritating sensitive skin and triggering allergic reactions. Therefore, choosing products with natural scents derived from essential oils or fragrance-free options is a gentler approach. Sulfates, including SLS and SLES, are harsh cleansing agents that can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Ingredients like formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, such as DMDM hydantoin, are best avoided due to their classification as potential carcinogens. Finally, triclosan, an antibacterial agent, is another ingredient to watch out for because of its links to hormone disruption and environmental damage. By consciously avoiding these ingredients, you are making a positive long-term investment in your skin and overall health.
Conversely, focusing on ingredients that are gentle, effective, and naturally derived is key to a successful natural skin care routine. Below are some standout ingredients that are highly valued in clean skin care formulations:
- Hyaluronic Acid: This is an indispensable hydrating ingredient, renowned for its ability to help skin retain moisture, keeping it plump, supple, and healthy-looking.
- Vitamin C: A powerhouse ingredient celebrated for its skin-brightening capabilities, Vitamin C effectively reduces dark spots and offers robust protection against environmental damage caused by harmful free radicals.
- Collagen & Vegan Collagen: For enhanced skin elasticity and firmness, collagen is essential. It plays a crucial role in maintaining a youthful complexion. Vegan collagen provides a plant-based alternative to boost your skin’s natural collagen production without relying on animal sources.
- Plant-Based Oils: Oils like jojoba, argan, and rosehip are exceptional for providing deep moisturization to the skin without the risk of clogging pores or causing breakouts. They are rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins that nourish and protect the skin.
- Gentle Exfoliants: Natural exfoliants such as fruit enzymes derived from papaya or pineapple offer a kinder approach to smoothing skin texture compared to harsh physical scrubs. They gently remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter and more even complexion.
- Soothing Ingredients: To alleviate irritation and redness, ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea extract are remarkably effective. They calm inflammation and soothe sensitive skin, promoting a balanced and comfortable skin feel.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This multi-tasking ingredient is a true powerhouse for skin health. Niacinamide balances oil production, minimizes the appearance of pores, and significantly improves overall skin texture, leading to a smoother and more refined complexion.
- Squalane: A lightweight yet highly effective hydrator, squalane closely mimics your skin’s natural oils, making it easily absorbable and non-greasy. Plant-based squalane is an excellent cruelty-free alternative that provides the same hydrating benefits while aligning with ethical choices.
For those seeking a convenient destination for all things natural skin care, clean beauty marketplaces like Credo are invaluable resources. Credo, for example, has a stringent ‘Credo Clean Standard’ that ensures every skin care product sold meets the highest safety and sustainability benchmarks, supporting both communities and the planet. This means your investment in skin care can also be an investment in ethical and sustainable practices.
If you ever find yourself questioning the safety of an ingredient in a skin care product, the EWG’s Skin Deep search engine is an excellent tool. It allows you to quickly assess the safety profile of specific ingredients, brands, or products, empowering you to make informed choices about what you apply to your skin.
Our Top Picks for Natural Skin Care Product Brands
Our team of editors has dedicated years to personally testing, researching, and analyzing thousands of customer reviews to curate a list of the very best natural skin care brands. These brands stand out for their commitment to safety, thoughtful ingredient selection, and accessibility across various skin types and budgets. We regularly update this list to include emerging favorites that consistently meet our rigorous criteria:
- ORGANIC & NONTOXIC: We prioritize brands that formulate their skin care products with natural, organic, and nontoxic ingredients, ensuring they are both safe and nourishing for your skin.
- EFFICACY: Each brand featured has been rigorously tested and researched to confirm the effectiveness of their formulas. We ensure that these products deliver real results and support your skin’s needs with consistent use.
- AFFORDABILITY: Recognizing that natural beauty can sometimes come with a higher price tag, we include brands that offer options accessible to different budgets. Our aim is to make the benefits of clean skin care available to everyone.
If you are passionate about natural skin care, you might also be interested in exploring our recommendations for the best natural and organic makeup brands and our comprehensive guide to all-natural moisturizers. For cleansing solutions that are equally clean and organic, see our guides to toxin-free hair products and natural face wash, which cover all your cleansing needs without compromising on natural ingredients.
Our Top Brand Categories:
Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best Luxury | Most Hydrating
1. cocokind
BIPOC Owned
Budget friendly
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Gives back
Recycled materials
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned
Best For | Budget-friendly skin care
Natural & Organic | Certified organic & natural ingredients, cruelty-free, gluten-free
Price Range | Cleanser ($15), Moisturizer ($23)
For skin care that feels both luxurious and affordable, cocokind is an excellent choice. This brand offers a comprehensive range of products from cleansers and creams to exfoliators and essences, catering to diverse skin types and concerns. Cocokind prides itself on being cruelty-free, sustainably manufacturing its products, and using recyclable materials for packaging. A significant portion of their formulas are made with certified organic ingredients, underscoring their commitment to natural skin care. Each product label provides detailed information about the brand’s sustainability and ethical practices, promoting transparency. Notably, cocokind is also a great option for affordable organic SPF, readily available at Target.
Our Editor’s Review | “Since incorporating cocokind’s serums into my routine, my skin feels rejuvenated. It’s well-hydrated and visibly happier, which in turn boosts my overall spirit. The first night I used cocokind, I noticed my skin felt tighter and more plump, and I woke up with a taut, refreshed look.” – Trinity Wilbourn, Contributing Editor (Read the full review.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: TARGET THRIVE MARKET
2. Ursa Major
B corp
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Family owned
Recycled materials
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | Gender & skin inclusive skin care
Natural & Organic | Natural, plant-based ingredients, vegan, cruelty-free
Price Range | Cleanser ($32), Moisturizer ($54)
Ursa Major emphasizes the power of nature, formulating plant-powered products with only clean ingredients, completely free of petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances. Their formulations feature beneficial components like sea fennel, shea butter, and sustainably certified palm oil. Ursa Major is recognized as a certified plastic-negative brand, operates a carbon-neutral office, and utilizes recyclable packaging, reflecting its dedication to environmental responsibility. For those who appreciated the invigorating fragrance and exfoliation of Clean & Clear Morning Burst cleanser, Ursa Major’s face wash offers a similar energizing experience without harmful microbeads or sulfates, making it a perfect morning mood booster. As a certified B Corp, Ursa Major provides a comprehensive range of skin care essentials, from serums to tonics, balms, and washes, catering to all skin care needs with a commitment to natural and ethical practices.
Customer Review | “I am in love with Golden Hour Recovery Cream! After just one day of use, I could feel a noticeable improvement in my skin’s texture. Within a few days, it calmed my irritated skin. Now on my second jar, it’s a staple in my routine! It feels light and fresh yet deeply nourishing.” – Devon S. (Read more reviews.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: CREDO THRIVE MARKET THE DETOX MARKET
3. True Botanicals
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
FSC
Made safe
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned
Best For | Anti-aging oils & serums
Natural & Organic | Organic & wildcrafted ingredients, MADE SAFE certified, sustainably sourced, Leaping Bunny certified, vegan
Price Range | Cleanser ($48), Moisturizer ($110)
True Botanicals is an award-winning skin care brand that harnesses nature’s most potent restorative and nourishing ingredients, such as chebula, an Ayurvedic fruit, and algae extract, to create products suitable for a wide range of skin concerns. From specialized sets for acne-prone skin to pregnancy-safe options, True Botanicals is committed to using only organic and wildcrafted ingredients. The Pure Radiance Oil is a standout favorite among beauty enthusiasts and our team, praised for its exceptional texture and visible improvements in skin radiance and overall health. The brand also simplifies the selection process with a skin care quiz to help customers find the most appropriate products for their individual needs, and offers subscription options for added savings.
Our Editor’s Review | “…I am genuinely impressed with the high quality and efficacy of True Botanicals’ formulations. The concentration and effectiveness of each product justify the price point—they are truly a worthwhile investment if your budget allows.” – Henah Velez, Contributing Editor (Read the full review.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: CREDO THE DETOX MARKET
4. OSEA
Climate neutral
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Family owned
Gives back
Recycled materials
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned
Best For | Seaweed-infused skin care
Natural & Organic | PEG & gluten-free, hand-harvested natural ingredients, Leaping Bunny certified, vegan
Price Range | Cleanser ($48), Moisturizer ($54)
OSEA, established 25 years ago, is dedicated to creating safe skin care products that benefit both our bodies and the planet. Their collection features natural, plant-derived ingredients, making them entirely vegan-friendly, with sustainably harvested seaweed as a signature component. This potent ingredient, combined with pure, cold-pressed essential oils, makes OSEA products uniquely nourishing and effective. OSEA is also Climate Neutral Certified, operates using renewable energy, and utilizes glass and recyclable packaging, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
Our Editor’s Review | “This is my preferred gel cleanser for daily morning use! The subtle citrus scent is wonderfully awakening and energizing. Just two to three small pumps are sufficient to cover my face and neck, gently exfoliating my skin. My skin always feels refreshed and remarkably soft after using it.” – Kayti Christian, Senior Content Strategist (Read the full review.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: CREDO THE DETOX MARKET
5. Herbivore Botanicals
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Recycled materials
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Woman owned
Best For | Skin care with raw, natural ingredients
Natural & Organic | Certified organic & natural ingredients, Leaping Bunny certified, vegan
Price Range | Cleanser ($42), Moisturizer ($46)
Herbivore Botanicals champions “skinimalism,” believing that skin care should be a simple and enjoyable daily ritual. They formulate natural and certified organic products that are not only effective but also aesthetically pleasing, perfect for display on your bathroom shelf. Every ingredient is cruelty-free, vegan, and ethically sourced, including olive-derived squalane, fragrant jasmine oil, and blue tansy, featured in their popular Lapis Face Oil. The brand’s foaming cleansing bar soap is another favorite, praised for its rich lather, travel-friendly solid form, and reasonable price. Herbivore Botanicals is also committed to sustainability with recyclable packaging and formulas designed to be gentle and effective even for sensitive skin.
Customer Review | “This product is simply liquid gold. In the decade I’ve used it, nothing else has benefited my skin as much. It clears up acne almost overnight, and as someone with extremely sensitive skin prone to oil overproduction and dandruff-like flakiness, this oil balances everything out. It leaves my skin dewy and healthy when nothing else, even prescription treatments, has worked. I plan to use this forever.” – Abigail (Read more reviews.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: CREDO THE DETOX MARKET
6. Attitude
Biodegradable
Budget friendly
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
FSC
Made in Canada
Plant trees
Plastic/Pfas free
Vegan
Best For | Solid & plastic-free skin care
Natural & Organic | EWG-verified, plastic-free packaging, vegan, cruelty-free, 92.9% natural origin ingredients
Price Range | Cleanser ($20), Moisturizer ($20)
Attitude’s Oceanly skin care line has garnered significant attention for good reason: it’s formulated with 92.9% natural ingredients, is EWG-verified ensuring it’s free from concerning substances, and features entirely plastic-free packaging. The solid formulas are both environmentally sustainable and exceptionally convenient for travel. Their popular anti-aging and mattifying solid skin creams are designed for 204 uses, approximately six months, and are enriched with phytoglycogen, known for its effectiveness in reducing age spots and wrinkles. Attitude further demonstrates its environmental commitment by planting a tree for every skin care product purchased. This line is also entirely vegan and cruelty-free, making it a comprehensive choice for conscious consumers.
Customer Review | “I love the stick application method, no more messy creams on my face. This product makes my sensitive, acne-prone skin glow. I’ve experienced very few breakouts since starting to use it, and my face is no longer oily. The product quiz recommended this line, and I’m so glad I followed the suggestion.” – Auna B. (Read more reviews.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: THRIVE MARKET
7. One Love Organics
American made
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
FSC
Recycled materials
Woman owned
Best For | Re-balancing skin
Natural & Organic | Certified organic & natural ingredients, cruelty-free, ECOCERT certified, dermatologist tested formulas
Price Range | Cleanser ($45), Moisturizer ($59)
One Love Organics was founded by Suzanne LeRoux, driven by her passion for holistic health, natural wellness, and beauty. Her brand delivers an innovative line of plant-forward skin care. Crafted in small batches, One Love Beauty products are free from fillers and unnecessary shortcuts, offering a simplistic yet effective approach to skin care with impressive results. Their Skin Dew Coconut Water Cream, a bestseller, is a lightweight yet intensely hydrating cream, formulated with pro-ceramide conditioners, fatty-acid-rich sea botanicals, and is 99% of natural origin. For a complete nourishing routine, pair it with their Enzyme Cleansing Oil and Facial Serum to achieve silky, well-nourished skin throughout the day.
Customer Review | “This cleanser is a top favorite, and I repurchase it every time I run out. It’s gentle and hydrating yet effectively removes all my makeup. I adore the scent and how my skin feels after washing.” – Ashley G. (Read more reviews.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: CREDO THE DETOX MARKET
8. Junk Theory
1% for the planet
American made
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Plastic/Pfas free
Recycled materials
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | Recyclable skin care
Natural & Organic | Nearly zero plastic bottles, certified natural & organic ingredients, non-GMO
Price Range | Cleanser ($28), Moisturizer ($58)
Junk Theory is dedicated to environmental stewardship by creating a ‘junk-free world,’ which extends to their skin care line formulated with ‘no junk ingredients and no junk packaging.’ Addressing the alarming amount of plastic packaging waste, Junk Theory offers clean skin care in recyclable aluminum containers that are durable, reusable, and easily recyclable, unlike traditional glass packaging. These minimalist bottles and jars are filled with premium cleansing, moisturizing, and treatment formulas crafted with organic ingredients inspired by nature. Choosing Junk Theory allows you to enhance your skin’s radiance while supporting a kinder approach to our planet.
Customer Review | “This is a brilliant product with smooth application and lasting hydration all day. It’s the only cream that has cleared up dry patches and smoothed my complexion. I’ve tried numerous creams over the years without the success I’ve had with Camo. It’s truly a mighty miracle in a tin!” – Alison (Read more reviews.)
9. Matrescence
BIPOC Owned
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Subscriptions available
USDA organic
Vegan
Woman owned
Best For | Pregnancy-safe skin care
Natural & Organic | Certified organic & plant-based ingredients, nontoxic, vegan, cruelty-free
Price Range | Cleanser ($62), Moisturizer ($68)
Matrescence skin care specifically addresses common maternity and pregnancy-related skin issues such as hormonal acne, melasma, and stretch marks. Using only certified organic and sustainably sourced, plant-based ingredients, Matrescence develops potent botanical formulas that are both pregnancy-safe and gentle on the skin. Their product range extends to body butters, oils, and scrubs, offering comprehensive head-to-toe self-care. The brand is also committed to ethical sourcing, utilizes EWG-verified ingredients where possible, and employs recyclable and eco-friendly packaging.
Customer Review | “A little of this product really goes a long way! I often struggle to find the right moisturizer for my face—some are too greasy, others lack lasting hydration. However, this luxurious soufflé is amazing. It hydrates my skin exceptionally well without any greasy after-feel. It’s the perfect final step in my Rose Glow Trio skin care routine!” -Sarah B. (Read more reviews.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: CREDO THE DETOX MARKET
10. 100% PURE
American made
Cruelty free
Eco friendly packaging
Gives back
Gluten free
Plant trees
Subscriptions available
Vegan
Best For | Fruit-infused skin care
Natural & Organic | Certified organic & natural ingredients, vegan, cruelty-free
Price Range | Cleanser ($30), Moisturizer ($24)
100% PURE is committed to offering certified organic products with the highest quality ingredients and nutrients. Their natural cleansers and masks are designed to detoxify and refresh the skin, while their natural facial scrubs effectively exfoliate and smooth away bumps and dullness. 100% PURE also provides a comprehensive line of cosmetics and personal care products, all packaged in recyclable materials. Favorites include their calendula cleansing milk and waterless cleansers, particularly the lavender oat milk version, known for its delightful scent. For a truly luxurious experience, their sea culture product line is highly recommended. 100% PURE may quickly become your preferred one-stop shop for all-natural beauty and skin care essentials.
Customer Review | “I really love this moisturizer! As someone very selective about skin care for my 49-year-old skin, this is exceptional. It’s slightly thick, not greasy or heavy, yet deeply moisturizing! And it’s offered at a great price! Definitely a keeper in my routine!” – Tina M. (Read more reviews.)
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: THRIVE MARKET THE DETOX MARKET
Conclusion: Embrace the Natural Path to Beautiful Skin
Choosing natural skin care products is more than just a beauty decision; it’s a commitment to your health and the well-being of our planet. By opting for brands that prioritize natural, organic, and nontoxic ingredients, you are nourishing your skin with the best nature has to offer while minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals. These carefully selected brands demonstrate that effective skin care can be both ethical and accessible, catering to a variety of needs and budgets. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options, luxurious treatments, or specialized care for concerns like aging or pregnancy, there’s a natural skin care product out there for you. Make the switch to natural skin care today and experience the radiant, healthy glow that comes from truly nourishing your skin, naturally.
