too long  A selection of non-toxic baby lotions, featuring brands like Earth Mama and Pipette, displayed on a wooden surface in a bright, natural setting.

In This Guide

Best Stuff

All Good Hydrating Lotion

All Good Hydrating Lotion are super silky, not at all greasy, and still free of all the gross stuff. They use organic ingredients, which is unusual for even most of the brands we recommend.

All Good also makes an awesome coconut oil Skin Food that’s as simple as it is deeply hydrating.

Ingredients: Jasmine Rose: Water, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil*, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Arnica (Arnica Montana) Leaf Extract*, Vanilla Planifolia Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Fragrance Oil*, Tocopherol, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate.
*Certified Organic Ingredient

Cost per ounce $2.83

All Good Hydrating Lotion

Beauty Without Cruelty Fragrance Free Body Lotion

  • Fragrance-free formula ideal for sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin.
  • Rich in nourishing plant oils including sunflower, jojoba, flaxseed, sweet almond, and kukui oils.
  • Contains soothing botanicals such as aloe vera, calendula, chamomile, lavender, and arnica extracts.
  • Shea butter, glycerin, and panthenol help support skin barrier function and long-lasting hydration.
  • Antioxidants including vitamin E and vitamin C derivatives help protect and condition skin.
  • Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, petroleum ingredients, and silicones.

Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Glycerin (Vegetable), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice (Decolorized), Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Oil*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Calendula Officinalis Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Flower Extract, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Arnica Montana Extract, Aleurites Moluccanus (Kukui) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol, Phenoxyethanol, Benzyl Alcohol, Lecithin (Soy), Sodium PCA, Allantoin, Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Ethylhexylglycerin. *Organic ingredients

Cost per ounce: $0.81

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Beauty Without Cruelty Fragrance Free Body Lotion

Humble Organics Body Butter

  • Made with organic shea butter, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, sunflower oil, and jojoba oil to deeply nourish dry skin.
  • Thick, rich body butter formula helps lock in moisture and soften rough or flaky skin.
  • Naturally scented with organic orange essential oil and vanilla hydrosol instead of synthetic fragrance.
  • Contains organic beeswax and arrowroot powder for a smooth, non-greasy finish.
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, petroleum-derived ingredients, silicones, PEGs, and artificial fragrance.
  • Suitable for all ages and especially helpful for very dry skin.

Ingredients: Shea Butter*, Coconut Oil*, Sweet Almond Oil*, Sunflower Oil*, Jojoba Oil*, Beeswax*, Arrowroot Powder*, Orange Essential Oil*, Vanilla Hydrosol, Vitamin E*. *Organic

Cost per ounce: $4.86

Humble Organics Body Butter

Mater Body Balm

  • Made with certified organic jojoba, olive, shea butter, rosehip, castor, and sea buckthorn oils.
  • Rich in antioxidant-rich botanical oils that help nourish dry skin and support the skin barrier.
  • Contains calendula, chamomile, and lavender extracts to soothe and calm irritated skin.
  • Uses beeswax for a protective moisture barrier without petroleum-based ingredients.
  • Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, PEGs, silicones, and preservatives.
  • Multi-purpose balm suitable for hands, body, elbows, knees, cuticles, and extra-dry areas.

Ingredients: Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Nut Butter*, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil*, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Fruit Oil*, Tocopherol, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Elettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom) Oil*, Vetiveria Zizanioides (Vetiver) Root Oil*, Pelargonium Asperum (Geranium) Oil*, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Extract*, Matricaria Recutita (Chamomile) Extract*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract*. *Certified Organic

Cost per ounce: $24

Mater Body Balm

UpCircle Hand + Body Lotion

  • Made with moisturizing sunflower, sweet almond, jojoba, and coconut oils to nourish and soften skin.
  • Contains upcycled bergamot fruit water, helping reduce waste from the juice industry.
  • Naturally scented with bergamot, orange, lemongrass, and peppermint oils.
  • Aloe vera and vitamin E help support hydration and skin barrier health.
  • Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, silicones, PEGs, and petroleum-derived ingredients.
  • Available with a reusable aluminum cap option to reduce plastic waste.

Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Water, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil, Tocopherol, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene, Citral, Geraniol, Citronellol, Linalool. *Organic ingredients

Cost per ounce: $2.84

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UpCircle Hand + Body Lotion

Sally B's Skin Yummies Eco Body Lotion

  • Made primarily with organic plant oils including sweet almond, coconut, jojoba, tamanu, and olive-derived squalane.
  • Contains soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, oatmeal flour, vitamin E, lecithin, and rosemary extract to help calm and nourish dry skin.
  • Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, PEGs, silicones, petroleum-derived ingredients, and phenoxyethanol.
  • Preserved with lower-risk ingredients including radish root ferment filtrate, gluconodeltalactone, sodium benzoate, and potassium sorbate.
  • Available in both unscented and lavender varieties, making it a good option for sensitive skin.
  • Uses a short, highly transparent ingredient list composed primarily of recognizable plant-based ingredients.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Glyceryl Stearate and Cetearyl Alcohol and Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate (Ecocertified Emulsifier), Calophyllum Inophyllum (Tamanu) Oil*, Olive Squalane, Lecithin*, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf*, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour*, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Potassium Sorbate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tocopherols, Gluconodeltalactone and Sodium Benzoate, Lavandula Angustifolia* (in Lavender Scent only).*Indicates organic sourcing.

Cost per ounce: $4.75

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Sally B's Skin Yummies Eco Body Lotion

I don’t believe that we need to slather ourselves head-to-toe in natural body lotion after every shower, but there are few things more satisfying than rubbing hand cream into parched palms. And in the winter, my legs and arms become dry as well, and I like to have something around to moisturize.

Of course, most conventional lotions (and even many “natural” ones) are full of the usual chemicals, so you’ll have to do some digging to find a truly clean one.

Make Your Own Natural Body Lotion!

Elizabeth Flynn is an organic chemist and essential oil expert based in Santa Cruz. She generously shared the following recipe for a nourishing homemade body lotion. This is a very thick cream, so using squeezable plastic containers is not advisable.

Ingredients & Supplies

  • 3/4 cup organic coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup organic aloe (the purest you can find; most “aloe” has aloe as the third ingredient or more)
  • 3 tablespons organic jojoba oil (the best skin oil; closely resembles the skin’s sebum)
  • 3 tablespoons distilled water
  • 2 tablespoons organic beeswax
  • 1 teaspoon of essential oils of your choice (lavender is an excellent choice; it’s calming, soothing, and has antibacterial properties)
  • blender
  • rubber spatula (optional)
  • thermometer (optional)

Directions

1. Melt the coconut oil, beeswax, and jojoba oil together in a small pot on low heat, stirring just until they become homogeneous. Then turn off the heat so the oils don’t get too hot.

2. Heat the distilled water in another small pot on low heat, until it simmers. This will only take a minute or two. It is best to heat both the oils and water to the same temperature, but if you don’t have a thermometer, just heat them on the same burner level.

3. Pour the heated oils and water into the blender simultaneously and blend on low for two minutes.

4. Slowly add the aloe while blending on high for two minutes. You might have to use a rubber spatula to assist the blending process.

5. Add your essentials during those last two minutes of blending.

6. Voila! Your natural body lotion will still be warm and you can pour into glass jars of a suitable size. Elizabeth recommends recycling old food jars! A rubber spatula works well here to get every last bit.

Good Stuff

Acure Seriously Soothing 24hr Moisture Lotion

Acure Seriously Soothing 24hr Moisture Lotion is unscented with cocoa butter & colloidal oatmeal to protect & soothe. Seriously soothing hydration your skin will revel in. Packed with cocoa butter, colloidal oatmeal and deeply moisturizing aloe. Clinically shown to provide moisture for 24hrs when used as directed.

Ingredients: Water/​Aqua, Aloe Vera Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cetearyl Olivate,Sorbitan Olivate, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil,Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Laurate,Cocoglycerides, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Colloidal Oatmeal, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter,Hippophae Rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Squalane, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Sodium Levulinate,Potassium Sorbate

Cost per ounce $1.75

Acure Seriously Soothing 24hr Moisture Lotion

Alaffia Everyday Shea Body Lotion

  • Made with Certified Fair Trade unrefined shea butter and shea leaf extract.
  • Moisturizes and softens skin with shea butter and plant-based emollients.
  • Contains lemongrass and lavender extracts for a naturally scented formula.
  • Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil.
  • Supports Alaffia's Fair Trade and community empowerment initiatives in West Africa.
  • Budget-friendly option for daily body moisturizing.

Ingredients: Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Aqueous Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Leaf Aqueous Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Emulsifying Wax, Stearic Acid, Lavandula Hybrida (Lavender) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Elaeis Guineensis (Red Palm) Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Ascorbic Acid.

Cost per ounce: $0.56 

Alaffia Everyday Shea Body Lotion

Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion

  • Rich moisturizing blend of sunflower, sesame, avocado, jojoba, and shea butter.
  • Contains soothing botanicals including aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber, green tea, and lavender extracts.
  • Panthenol, vitamin E, and allantoin help support skin hydration and barrier function.
  • Unscented formula suitable for those sensitive to fragrance.
  • Dermatologist-tested and free of parabens and phthalates.
  • Affordable option for a large 32-ounce bottle.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Echinacea Angustifolia Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Allantoin, Lecithin, Polysorbate 60, Potassium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Alcohol, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.

Cost per ounce: $0.66

Alba Botanica Very Emollient Body Lotion

Annmarie Skin Care Radiant Skin Silk Body Lotion

  • Lightweight lotion that hydrates and softens dry skin while leaving a smooth, silky feel.
  • Aloe vera helps soothe skin and support lasting hydration.
  • Sunflower seed oil provides essential fatty acids that help nourish and protect the skin barrier.
  • Olive-derived squalane and vegetable glycerin help lock in moisture and support healthy skin.
  • Botanical extracts like calendula, chamomile, green tea, and gotu kola provide soothing and antioxidant benefits.
  • Naturally scented with essential oils including frankincense, ho wood, and Peru balsam for a subtle earthy-sweet scent.
  • Made with a blend of organic and plant-based ingredients and free from synthetic fragrance.

Ingredients: *Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice, *Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, Serum blend [*Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice, Squalane (olive oil derived), Carrageenan (red algae) extract, non-GMO Xanthan gum (plant derived)], Herb-infused aloe vera juice [*Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice, *Calendula officinalis (calendula) flower extract, *Camellia sinesis (gunpowder green tea) leaf extract, *Plantago lanceolata (plantain) leaf extract, *Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, *Camellia sinesis (green tea) leaf extract, *Thymus vulgaris (thyme) leaf extract], Herb-infused oil [*Vitis vinifera (grape) seed oil, *Calendula officinalis (calendula) flower extract, *Chamomilla recutita (chamomile) flower extract, *Symphytum officinale (comfrey) leaf extract, *Centella asiatica (gotu kola) leaf extract, *Camellia sinesis (green tea) leaf extract, *Jasminum officinale (jasmine) flower extract, *Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) flower extract, *Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) leaf extract, *Helichrysum arenarium (life everlasting) flower extract, *Plantago lanceolata (plantain) leaf extract, *Rhodiola rosea (rhodiola) root extract, *Althaea officinalis (marshmallow)], Aqua (water), *Glycerin (vegetable derived) extract [*Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed], non-GMO plant derived wax [Cetearyl alcohol, Cetearyl glucoside], Populus tremuloides (aspen) bark extract, Aqua (water), *Glycerin (vegetable derived) extract [*Plantago lanceolata (plantain) leaf], Tocopherol (non-GMO vitamin E), Sodium ascorbate (mineral salt), Myroxylon balsamum (peru balsam) oil, Cinnamomum camphora linalooliferum (ho wood) oil, Boswellia carterii (frankincense) gum extract.*Organically grown or wildcrafted

Cost per ounce: $8.21

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Annmarie Skin Care Radiant Skin Silk Body Lotion

Avalon Organics Hand & Body Lotion

  • Uses aloe vera as the first ingredient, along with nourishing plant oils including safflower, coconut, olive, avocado, and flaxseed oils.
  • Contains moisturizing and soothing ingredients such as shea butter, oat bran, calendula, chamomile, bisabolol, and hyaluronic acid.
  • Free from synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, PEGs, and petroleum-derived ingredients.
  • Includes several antioxidant-rich botanical extracts that help support healthy, hydrated skin.
  • Preserved with benzyl alcohol, potassium sorbate, and sodium benzoate, which are generally considered lower-risk preservatives but keep this formula from earning a Best Stuff designation.
  • A lightweight yet moisturizing lotion that offers excellent value for those seeking a fragrance-free body lotion.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Glycerin, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil*, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearic Acid, Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran, Beta-Glucan, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract*, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower Extract*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Arginine, Bisabolol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Potassium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Stearyl Alcohol, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Xanthan Gum, Alcohol, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.

Cost per ounce: $0.76

Avalon Organics Hand & Body Lotion

Babo Sensitive Baby Fragrance Free Daily Hydra Lotion

Great for adults with very sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin. Contains 2% colloidal oatmeal, natural shea butter, and sea buckthorn oil.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Vegetable Glycerin, Emulsifying Wax, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cetyl Alcohol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid (From Coconut), Glyceryl Caprylate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Nasturtium Officinale (Watercress) Flower/Leaf Extract*, Pueraria Lobata (Kudzu) Root Extract*, Spiraea Ulmaria (Meadowsweet) Flower Extract*, Xanthan Gum, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil

Cost per ounce: $1.93

Babo Sensitive Baby Fragrance Free Daily Hydra Lotion

Botanical Therapeutic Tree Essence Unscented Cream

This unscented skin cream is formulated for extra dry skin to help improve your skin and scalp problems.

Ingredients: Filtered Aqua, Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, Elaeis guineensis (palm) oil, Pinus banksiana (pine) extract, Medicago sativa (alfalfa) leaf, Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile) flower extract, Echinacea purpurea (echinacea) flower extract, Urtica dioca (nettle) leaf extract, Trifolium pratense (clover) flower extract, Acetic Acid (apple cider vinegar), Olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, Linum Usitatissimum (linseed) seed oil, Cucurbita pepo (pumpkin) seed oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) seed oil, Persea gratissima (avocado) oil, Bees Wax.

Cost per ounce $2.72

Botanical Therapeutic Tree Essence Unscented Cream

Ceramedx Restoring Body Lotion

  • Fragrance-free formula designed for dry and sensitive skinC
  • Contains ceramides to help support and strengthen the skin barrier
  • Made with moisturizing plant oils like safflower, sunflower, hemp seed, and rosehip oil
  • Includes shea butter, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid for added hydration
  • Free from parabens and synthetic fragrance
  • Contains dimethicone and phenoxyethanol,
  • A better option than many conventional body lotions, especially for those needing barrier support and moisture repair

Ingredients: Aqua, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cetearyl Alcohol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sorbitan Olivate, Dimethicone, Ceramide NP, Lecithin, Phospholipids, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina (Rose Hip) Fruit Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Laminaria Ochroleuca (Kelp) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Allantoin, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Ulva Lactuca (Sea Lettuce) Extract, Ascorbic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Sorbitol, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol.

Cost per ounce: $1.49

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Ceramedx Restoring Body Lotion

Christina Maser Olive Oil Natural Body Lotion

These small-batch lotions are 100% natural with no preservatives, but still have a shelf life of a year (more if you refrigerate). They are not greasy or balm-like, but nice and creamy, while still being light. The Citrus Garden is my favorite scent. You can now buy this lotion in our store, where it’s $16 for a 8-ounce bottle.

Ingredients: Water, olive oil, meadowfoam seed oil, shea butter, emulsifying wax, cider vinegar, and pure essentials oils, tocopherol (vitamin E)

Cost per ounce $2.12

Christina Maser Olive Oil Natural Body Lotion

Counter Lotion & Body Butter

Counter (formerly Beautycounter) offers several safe hand and body creams–including Hydrating Body Lotion and Superquench Body Butter. While I don’t love that these contain phenyoxethanol and sodium benzoate, I think these are overall safe options, particularly for those of you looking for a product with nice packaging and more of a conventional feel/scent. I do use these products myself, but probably wouldn’t use them on children (anything else in this Good Stuff list is fine for kids, in my opinion).

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Dimethicone, Isopropyl Palmitate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Linoleic Acid, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Butter, Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Carbomer, Sorbitan Olivate, Xanthan Gum, Squalane, Allantoin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Phytic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Gluconolactone, Calcium Gluconate, Phenoxyethanol.

Cost per ounce: $3.69

Counter Lotion & Body Butter

Dr. Bronner's Hand & Body Lotion

  • Simple, transparent ingredient list with no hidden fragrance chemicals, preservatives, or synthetic thickeners.
  • Certified Organic Oils.
  • No parabens, phthalates, PEGs, or silicones
  • Certified Fair Trade

Ingredients: Aqua, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Organic Ethyl Alcohol*, Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Organic Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Organic Quillaja Saponaria Extract, Organic Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol
*CERTIFIED FAIR TRADE INGREDIENTS

Cost per ounce: $1.37

Dr. Bronner's Hand & Body Lotion

Farmaesthetics Nourishing Lavender Milk

This is what we now use in our home–my husband Daylon is picky about the consistency of his lotions; those that are super thick and balm-like weren’t going to fly. This one is nice and silky and I love that it comes in glass instead of plastic. We sell this lotion in our store, where it’s $45 for the 8-ounce glass jar.

Ingredients: organic soy oil, calendula, witch hazel, lavender essential oil, beeswax, lecithin, borax, xantham gum

Cost per ounce $5.75

Farmaesthetics Nourishing Lavender Milk

FATCO Calming Body Butta

FATCO starts with nutrient-dense tallow from grass-fed cows and blends in tons of natural plant-based oils and fats to create this wholesome, Paleo-certified moisturizer. 

Ingredients: Tallow from Grass-fed Cows, Coconut Oil*, Cocoa Butter*, Mango Butter*, Shea Butter*, Almond Oil*, Extra Virgin Olive Oil*, Beeswax, Vegetable Glycerin*, Avocado Oil*, Magnesium Oil, Lavender Essential Oil, Clary Sage Essential Oil. *Denotes An Organic Ingredient.

Cost per ounce: $7.25

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FATCO Calming Body Butta

Fitglow Beauty Cloud Ceramide Body Cream

  • Contains skin-supportive ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the skin barrier and improve hydration.
  • Uses nourishing plant oils and butters including cloudberry seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, shea butter, and sunflower oil.
  • Features beneficial botanical extracts such as gotu kola, arnica, cucumber, aloe vera, and vitamin E.
  • Preserved with lower-risk ingredients like gluconolactone, glyceryl caprylate, and glyceryl undecylenate instead of more concerning preservatives.
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, PEGs, petrolatum, and synthetic fragrance.
  • Contains several fragrant plant extracts and essential oil components (including geranium, mint, and bitter orange extracts), which may be irritating for very sensitive skin and keep this formula from earning a Best Stuff designation.
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that provides substantial moisture without feeling greasy.

Ingredients: Aqua (Deionized Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sunflower Oil, Ceramide, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Glycerin, Cloudberry Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Propanediol, Shea Butter, Grapeseed Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Arnica Flower Extract, Vitamin E, Gotu Kola Extract, Jojoba Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Cucumber Fruit Extract, Mint Extract, Geranium Extract, Bitter Orange Flower Extract, Cetyl Alcohol, Gluconolactone, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Undecylenate.

Cost per ounce: $5.59

Fitglow Beauty Cloud Ceramide Body Cream

Green Goo Dry Skin Moisturizing Salve

Green Goo is one of the oldest herbal salve companies in the U.S., and this moisturizing salve contains organic ingredients produced at their own herb farm. The Good Stuff Store sells this balm for $28 for a 2-ounce tub. We recommend this in particular for the hands and extra dry areas–it’s a bit of a challenge to smear it head-to-toe!

Ingredients: *Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Alba (Beeswax), *Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil.

Cost per ounce: $11.25

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Green Goo Dry Skin Moisturizing Salve

Kabana Skin Care

Kabana is among the most transparent companies out there, and its website outlines the very strict standards for its products’ ingredients. Kabana’s Pure Shea moisturizer is sort of like a deodorant stick that you paint on your body, so it’s a departure from a more traditional lotion or cream, and a little bit greasier. I love that it’s just 100% organic unrefined shea butter–produced in Ghana by a woman-owned, fair-trade collective to boot! Two ounces cost around $6.95. Kabana also makes a more traditional cream–Kabana Crémebut this one contains lanolin, which I try to avoid when possible (although Kabana does use the highest grade available–USP superfine). You can have an essential oil of your choice added to your cream (their oils are steam distilled, cold pressed, or supercritical carbon dioxide extracted). Daylon doesn’t like this cream because it’s SUPER thick and somewhat hard to rub in (better for small areas and Daylon likes to rub lotion over his entire chest). You’ll pay $15 for a 6-ounce tub of Kabana Creme. All Kabana products are produced in their facility outside of Boulder, CO, while some ingredients come from overseas (but nothing is sourced from or purchased in China). You can find Kabana products in Whole Foods, as well as the Kabana website. We also love their amazing sunscreen.

Ingredients: Eldorado Springs Artesian Spring Water, Lanolin, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Mango Butter, 3% Non-nano Zinc Oxide, Soy Lecithin

Cost per ounce: $3.05

Kabana Skin Care

MION Artisan Soap Whipped Shea Butter

Whipped shea butter with mango, cocoa, and chamomile oils for deep hydration, soothing relief, and soft, glowing skin. Handmade and chemical-free body butter.

Ingredients: Shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil infused with Germain Blue Chamomile, argan oil, vitamin E, tapioca starch, Roman chamomile essential oil.

Cost per ounce: $4.50

MION Artisan Soap Whipped Shea Butter

Moon Valley Organics

These Herbal Lotion bars are great for anyone with sensitive skin or skin allergies. The scent is soft and basic, using essential oils as an astringent to tone the skin.

Ingredients: Lemon Vanilla: Organic Safflower oil, Organic Beeswax, Moon Valley Organic Calendula and Comfrey, Organic Vanilla flavoring, Organic Lemon essential oils and Natural Vitamin E from Sunflowers. 

Cost per ounce: $9.47

Moon Valley Organics

Nécessaire The Body Lotion

  • Contains niacinamide, peptides, and a blend of exfoliating acids that help support smoother, firmer-looking skin.
  • Uses nourishing emollients including sunflower seed oil, shea butter glycerides, and olive-derived emulsifiers to provide lasting hydration.
  • Features multiple signal peptides that may help improve the appearance of skin texture and elasticity.
  • Includes lactic, glycolic, mandelic, and salicylic acids for gentle exfoliation and skin renewal.
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, PEGs, and silicones.
  • Preserved with phenoxyethanol and contains added fragrance along with numerous fragrance allergens and synthetic fragrance compounds.
  • A well-formulated lotion with beneficial active ingredients, but the fragrance system and preservative package keep it from earning a Best Stuff designation.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Shea Butter Glycerides, Cetearyl Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Olivate, Fragrance (Parfum), Hexanoyl Dipeptide-3 Norleucine Acetate, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminonhydroxybutyrate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Wood Oil, Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Tocopherol, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Propanediol, Lecithin, Xanthan Gum, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Citric Acid, T-Butyl Alcohol, Beta-Caryophyllene, Terpineol, Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalenes, Geranyl Acetate, Hydroxycitronellal, Benzyl Salicylate, Evernia Prunastri Extract, Cedrus Atlantica Wood Oil, Pinene, Camphor, Geraniol, Citronellol, Linalool.

Cost per ounce: $3.42

Nécessaire The Body Lotion

Oliveda Anti Aging Body Cream

This especially light and extremely refreshing body cream absorbs quickly into the skin, but is still rich in skin care performance. The high concentration of fresh, green olive leaf cell elixir provides intense moisture, reduces skin irritation, and stimulates new cell regeneration. 

Ingredients: olea europaea (olive) leaf cell extract, caprylic/capric triglyceride, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, glycerin, cetearyl ethylhexanoate, prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, prunus armeniaca (apricot) kernel oil, tocopheryl acetate, cetearyl glucoside, glyceryl stearate, stearic acid, palmitic acid, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, carbomer, maltodextrin, parfum (fragrance), sodium hydroxide, benzyl alcohol, benzoic acid, sorbic acid. “+ ‘fragrance’ is EO blends, never synthetic”

Cost per ounce: $5.35

Oliveda Anti Aging Body Cream

OSEA Anti-Aging Body Balm

  • Features nourishing plant oils including safflower, coconut, olive, babassu, and rice bran oils.
  • Contains seaweed (Alaria Esculenta) extract, a source of antioxidants and minerals that may support skin elasticity.
  • Rich, balm-like texture helps soften and moisturize dry skin.
  • Includes rosemary and sunflower extracts for additional antioxidant benefits.
  • Free from parabens, phthalates, PEGs, silicones, and petroleum-derived ingredients.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free.

Ingredients: Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Octyldodecanol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil, Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Tocopherol.*Natural fragrance blend derived from aromatic compounds and/or essential oils extracted from plants.

Cost per ounce: $10.80 Code: GIMME10

OSEA Anti-Aging Body Balm

Paume Probiotic Hand Balm

Premium plant based emollients deliver long lasting hydration and nourishment to the skin, while natural probiotics help to restore your skin’s natural microbiome after cleansing and sanitizing.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Methyl Glucoside Sesquistearate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil. Glyceryl Stearate Coco-Caprylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes, Glycerin, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis, (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid

Cost per ounce: $12.00

Paume Probiotic Hand Balm

Plaine Body Lotion

I love Plaine for their commitment to the environment: the bottles are made of aluminum instead of plastic, and better yet, you send them back to be cleaned, sterilized, refilled, and returned to you! The fact that their lotion is also totally clean makes Plaine lotion some of the Best Stuff.

Ingredients: Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Squalane, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E).

Cost per ounce $1.87

Plaine Body Lotion

Poofy’s Lotions

Poofy’s lotions have a few ingredients that aren’t so great, namely the vague “natural flavors” there at end, but I still consider this line of lotions to be Good Stuff.

Ingredients: Distilled Water, Organic Apricot Kernel Oil, Organic Unrefined Shea Butter, Organic Vegetable Glycerin (soybean, maize or mustard), Emulsifying Wax (Cetostearyl Alcohol & Sorbitan Ester), Organic Rosemary Extract, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate (Kimchi Seaweed), Organic Coconut Flavor Extract (organic ethyl alcohol, organic natural flavors, natural flavors).

Cost per ounce: $1.96

Use code MAIAJAMES for 10% off

Poofy’s Lotions

Public Goods Lotion

  • Contains moisturizing ingredients including glycerin, coconut oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cetyl alcohol, and stearic acid to help soften and hydrate skin.
  • Uses a refillable packaging system that helps reduce single-use plastic waste.
  • Free from parabens and phthalates.
  • Includes naturally derived emollients and humectants that provide lightweight hydration without feeling overly greasy.
  • Contains natural fragrance, dimethicone, polysorbate 60, and phenoxyethanol, which keep this formula from earning a Best Stuff designation.
  • A reasonably clean everyday lotion option, though we generally prefer formulas with greater ingredient transparency and fewer synthetic additives.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin (from Palm Oil), Acetamidoethoxyethanol, Cetyl Alcohol (from Palm), Stearic Acid (from Vegetable Fatty Acids), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (from Coconut), Polysorbate 60, Dimethicone, Natural Fragrance (citrus, mint, eucalyptus, lavender, cedarleaf, birch wood, warm amber, cedar, and patchouli notes), Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzoic Acid, Potassium Sorbate.

Cost per ounce: $1.75

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Public Goods Lotion

Pure Good Tallow Balm

  • Made with 100% grass-fed and finished beef tallow, a traditional moisturizer that closely mimics the skin’s natural oils and helps support the skin barrier.
  • Contains organic extra virgin olive oil for additional hydration and antioxidant support.
  • Lightly scented with vanilla planifolia and almond extract for a warm, naturally derived fragrance.
  • Very short ingredient list with no synthetic fragrance, preservatives, or fillers.
  • Rich balm texture that works well for very dry skin, cracked skin, stretch marks, and rough patches.
  • Can be used on hands, body, or face as a deeply moisturizing alternative to conventional lotions.
  • Handcrafted in small batches using simple, traditional skincare ingredients.

Sample Ingredients: 100% grass-fed and finished beef tallow, organic extra virgin olive oil, vanilla planifolia, and almond extract.

Cost per ounce: $7

Pure Good Tallow Balm

Stream2Sea Body Lotion

  • Rich in antioxidant-rich botanical extracts including green tea, tulsi, wakame seaweed, and olive leaf
  • Contains organic aloe vera and moisturizing plant oils
  • Features olive-derived squalane for lightweight hydration
  • Includes shea butter and glycerin to support skin moisture
  • Uses gentle preservatives such as sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate
  • Contains panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) to help support skin barrier function
  • Free of parabens, phthalates, silicones, and petroleum-derived ingredients
  • Reef-safe and shark-friendly sourcing practices
  • Contains naturally derived fragrance

Ingredients: Aqueous Extracts of Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf*, Ocimum Tenuiflorum (Tulsi) Leaf*, Alaria Esculenta (Wakame Seaweed)* and Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf*, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Jojoba Esters, Butyrosper - mum Parkii (Shea Butter) Fruit, Olive Squalene, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Sorbitan Olivate, Undaria Pinnatifida (Wakame Seaweed) Bioferment, Lactobacillus/Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Ferment, Sodium Levulinate, Tocopherol, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Fragrance (Naturally Derived), Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate *ORGANIC INGREDIENTS

Cost per ounce: $1.72

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Stream2Sea Body Lotion

Okay Stuff

Everyone Unscented 2in1 Lotion

The reason this lotion is not good stuff is: benzyl alcohol and phenoxyethanol.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cetearyl Glucoside, Sorbitan Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Esters, Stearyl Alcohol, Organic Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Cetyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, EO Organic Herbal Blend [Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Organic Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, and Organic Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract], Xanthan Gum, Sodium Phytate, Dimethicone, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin

Cost per ounce: $0.42

Everyone Unscented 2in1 Lotion

Bad Stuff

Bad Stuff

Almost all the hand and body lotions you find at the drugstore are full of chemicals. Unfortunately, those sold at Sephora or in a department store aren’t any better.

Vaseline Intensive Care lotion garners a whopping 10 out of 10 on Skin Deep’s toxicity scale. Fragrance, DMDM hydantoinretinyl palmitatetriethanolamineparabens, and a handful of other chemicals are included in the various Vaseline formulas.

Lubriderm lotions contain fragrance, retinyl palmitate, BHTdiazolidinyl urea, and a cocktail of other synthetic ingredients.

In early 2014, I met the president of Bliss Spa at a Huffington Post luncheon. He was nice and suggested I check out some of their products. Unfortunately, Bliss’s body butters contain things like diethanolamine (linked with cancer), fragrance, retinal acetate (reproductive toxin), triethanolamine, and phenoxyethanol. I still do like getting a pedicure at Bliss, but maybe I will bring my own lotion.

Philosophy lotions, despite the high price, are still full of questionable ingredients (and the lower case “p” in their name annoys me, too). The Amazing Grace Firming Body Emulsion contains nine ingredients that are scored as 3 or above by Skin Deep (including PEG-100 stearate and polysorbate 60). Fragrance is the second ingredient in this lotion, although a customer service rep told us that Philosophy products don’t contain phthalates. When we asked what chemicals were in the fragrance blend, she said: “I do not have that information, but the fragrance is used to blend the product together and maintain effectiveness.” Philosophy’s website states that only a “handful of our original products still contain paraben-based preservatives and their “promise” is “to bring its customers products that inspire them to live a better life by being better to themselves…Our products are based on a rich, scientific heritage.” 

Kiehl’s popular Creme de Corps contains parabens, propylene glycol, PEG-100 stearatedimethicone, and undisclosed fragrance.

Sneaky Stuff

Sneaky Stuff

Surprisingly, you’ll find Ahava products in some health food stores. Their Caressing Body Sorbet contains BHA, synthetic fragrance, artificial colors, and phenoxyethanol.

Terralina’s Natural Body Lotion contains phenoxyethanol and fragranceTerralina’s website states that the product is “99.95% natural” and “contains light, natural fragrance.” When we asked a customer service rep to explain the ingredients in the lotion’s fragrance, she wouldn’t provide us with any information. Similarly, she couldn’t tell us which ingredients were organic and which were not.

Belli Specialty Skin Care Solutions claims to be the #1 recommended pregnancy skin care brand by OB-GYNS. Some of their products are clean, and their All Day Moisture Body Lotion is rated only a 2 by Skin Deep. However, it contains several ingredients that concern me:

  • Ceteareth-20 (Skin Deep score: 4-7, depending on usage.)
  • PEG-100 stearate
  • Iodopropynyl butylcarbamate (Skin Deep score: 4-6, depending on usage.)
  • Tocopheryl acetate
  • Phenoxyethanol

I also don’t like that Belli’s product ingredients aren’t posted on their website, and they were were exceptionally difficult to get ahold of. When asked if anything they used were organic, this was their response: “We are not fully organic, however we do use organic ingredients when possible. If an organic ingredient does not meet our safety standards and teratology screening, LACTMED screening, allergy testing ect [SIC]) we then substitute with a synthetic ingredient that does pass the screening.” This answer doesn’t make sense, since the opposite of organic is not synthetic, and nowhere on Belli’s website or on their labels does it mention ANY organic ingredients.

J.R. Watkins Naturals makes household cleaning products and specialty food items in addition to their popular skincare and haircare lines. Their lotions, sold in many healthfood stores, are free of some notorious bad stuff–namely, parabens and phthalates–but still contain unspecified (likely synthetic) fragrance and something called C18-22 hydroxyalkyl hydroxypropyl guar, about which there are no safety studies.

Kiss My Faces line of body lotions are free of phthalates and parabens, but contain a host of synthetics, including phenoxyethanol and polysorbate 80.

The every popular Skin Trip coconut moisturizer by Mountain Ocean contains synthetic fragrance and phenoxyethanol.

Author's Signature

Author's Signature

Maia, Founder & CEO

Note: This article contains affiliate links or sponsored content, which means that if you make a purchase, we may earn a commission. We only recommend products that meet our strict standards for non-toxicity and that we use (or want to use!) ourselves. Thank you so much for supporting the brands that make Good Stuff! 

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