7 Best Natural Body Lotions & Serums for Healthier Skin

Why Choose a Natural Body Lotion?

The Problem with Conventional Lotions

Compared to the best natural body lotions, most conventional body lotions contain synthetic chemicals like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and artificial fragrances, which can disrupt hormones, cause skin irritation, and contribute to long-term health risks. Studies have linked these ingredients to endocrine disruption, allergies, and even carcinogenic effects due to contamination with toxins like 1,4-dioxane.

Additionally, petroleum-derived ingredients (e.g., mineral oil) create an occlusive barrier but don’t nourish the skin, potentially clogging pores and preventing natural detoxification.

Benefits of Going Non-Toxic

Natural body lotions use plant-based ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and hyaluronic acid, which hydrate deeply without harmful side effects. Benefits include:

• Reduced irritation – Free from synthetic fragrances and dyes, ideal for sensitive skin.
• Nourishing actives – Ingredients like ceramides and essential fatty acids repair the skin barrier.
• Sustainability – Biodegradable formulas minimize environmental harm.

What to Look For in a Natural Body Lotion or Serum

Ingredient Transparency

Knowledge is power. Educate yourself about the latest trends or industry promises. You should understand that even plant based ingredients (like some essential oils) can irritate your skin. Conversely, there are a few synthetic ingredients that do not have effective alternatives and carry minimal risks which you might be comfortable taking. Look for brands that provide full transparency and unvarnished truth about the ingredients in their products. As a rule of thumb, consider these guidelines: 

• Look for plant based ingredients - plant based (oils and butters), plant derived (glucosides, glycerin), natural minerals (clays), ingredient from sustainable apiculture (beeswax, honey) and sourced from fruits, seeds, nuts, oils, leaves, stems, barks, clay and fungi.
• Go with proven hydrators - Educate yourself about the natural alternatives that are proven hydrators, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and plant oils.
• No parabens, sulfates, or PEGs – These chemicals are linked to skin and health risks. Look for specific word endings and common chemical names in the ingredient list: Parabens usually end in "paraben" (like methylparaben, propylparaben). Sulfates are often listed as "sodium lauryl sulfate" (SLS) or "sodium laureth sulfate" (SLES), with variations like ammonium lauryl sulfate. PEGs can be identified by numbers after the acronym (PEG-100, PEG-40).
• Other common synthetic ingredients to avoid - petrolatum and mineral oil (including Cera microcristallina, microcrystalline wax, ozokerite, ceresine, isoparaffin, paraffin, synthetic wax), silicon (anything with the suffix "thicone"), butylene glycol, propylene glycol and liquid paraffin).
• Be wary of “fragrance” - The word “fragrance” in the list of ingredients can hide thousands of chemicals. While not all fragrance ingredients are inherently harmful, the lack of transparency and the potential for negative health effects make it a risky ingredient to include in products, particularly for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Consider what you know about the brand and choose wisely.

Avoiding Greenwashing

Transparency is the key to understanding. Since terms like "clean" or "natural" aren’t regulated, look deeper for indications of the brand’s commitment to sustainability. You can verify “green” claims by following these guidelines:

• Research the Brand - Look into the brand's practices, including manufacturing processes, ingredient sourcing, and environmental impact. Transparent communication about these aspects is a sign of genuine commitment.
• Question Packaging - Excessive plastic packaging can be a red flag, even if a brand claims to be sustainable.
• Use Apps - Consider using apps to scan product barcodes and get a summary of ingredients, including potential red flags.
• Look for Third-party Certifications - Trusted third-party certifications like USDA Organic, Ecocert, or Cosmos Organic can indicate genuine sustainability efforts.
• Review Full List of Ingredients – Here I Am reviews and discloses ingredients for all the products they carry. Always investigate ingredients that you are not familiar with.

7 Best Natural Body Lotions & Serums for Healthier Skin

1. Vitamin C Serum with Kakadu Plum

• Notable Key Ingredient: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is packed with antioxidants. This hero ingredient helps fight free radical damage, even skin tone, and boost collagen production for a smoother, firmer complexion.
• Key Benefits: Brightens skin with antioxidant-rich Kakadu plum (highest natural vitamin C content) and hydrates with hyaluronic acid.
• Best For: Apply before moisturizer to brighten skin, reduce uneven tone.
• Reviews: “This product is everything and more! gives your skin a vey nice healthy glow and nourishes with clean ingredients. I have used many products from Hyssop Apothecary and they are top notch. Highly recommend!”

2. Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum Stick

• Notable Key Ingredient: Sodium Hyaluronate is a lightweight form of hyaluronic acid that absorbs deeply into skin, delivering intense hydration. It attracts and holds moisture, helping to temporarily smooth and plump the appearance of fine lines.
• Key Benefits: Portable, deeply hydrating with plant-based hyaluronic acid.
• Best For: Apply after cleansing to combat dryness and enhance radiance.
• Reviews: “This serum stick is a GAMECHANGER. My skin was suffering from persistent dry, itchy patches for weeks. I decided to try this serum stick and overnight my dry patches were gone (and have stayed gone). My face feels so smooth and soft after using it.”

3. Rose Collagen Face Cream

• Notable Key Ingredient: MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a bioavailable source of sulfur, a critical nutrient for connective tissue health. Research suggests it may support collagen production and reduce inflammation, which can promote faster repair processes.
• Key Benefits: Vegan collagen and rose extracts boost elasticity and moisture.
• Best For: Use day or night to hydrate, nourish & moisturize skin.
• Reviews: “I am in love with this luxurious collagen cream. I have very sensitive skin, and I'm obsessed with how rich and luxurious it feels on my skin without weighing it down."

4. Clarity Awakening Face Cream

• Notable Key Ingredient: Desert Sage (as a water-based infusion) helps reduce inflammation, fights microbes, soothes redness, and supports healthy skin and microbiome balance.
• Key Benefits: Niacinamide and green tea reduce redness and inflammation.
• Best For: Apply after serums and toners to hydrate & nourish with a matte finish.
• Reviews: “I am in love with this lotion! I am so picky when it comes to ingredients and toxicity. And it's hard to find something that actually hydrates and that lasts. This is the best smell on the planet!!”

5. Pot of Gold Regenerative Face Balm

• Notable Key Ingredient: Helichrysum essential oil has research-supported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, and is traditionally used to soothe skin irritations and support minor wound care.
• Key Benefits: Deeply heals and repairs damaged skin while fighting inflammation.
• Best For: Apply a small amount after toner to heal and soothe skin.
• Reviews: “This is one of my favorite skincare products EVER. My skin is visibly healthier with less signs of sun damage. Seriously miraculous stuff. Pot of gold, indeed."

6. Rose Blossom Hand & Body Lotion

• Notable Key Ingredient: Organic Rosa damascena (Rose) Flower Water instantly hydrates, soothes redness, adds a soft natural rose aroma; provides mild antioxidant support.
• Key Benefits: Lightweight yet moisturizing with rosehip oil and shea butter.
• Best For: Use anytime for daily hydration.
• Reviews: “Light, quickly absorbed, but oh so-o-o effective! Has a lovely rose fragrance.”

7. Lavender Lemon Hand & Body Lotion

• Notable Key Ingredient: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (a soothing humectant) delivers a burst of water-binding polysaccharides that calm irritation, reduce redness, and support wound healing.
• Key Benefits: Calms skin with lavender oil and vitamin E.
• Best For: Use daily on hands and body for nourishing and hydrating skin.
• Reviews: “I love how quickly it soaks into the skin. The new Lavender Lemon scent is also the best!”

Tips for Using the Best Natural Body Lotions Effectively

Apply to Damp Skin

• Natural lotions absorb best when skin is slightly wet (after a shower).
• Why? Ingredients such as aloe vera and coconut oil help lock in hydration, preventing moisture loss.

Layer serums with creams

• Boost absorption by layering face serums under your lotion.
• Why? This is a key skincare technique to maximize hydration, activate key ingredients, and increase barrier protection.

Store Properly (Cool & Dark)

• Preservative-free formulas can degrade faster in heat or sunlight.
• Why? Natural oils like rosehip, sesame, and lavender are sensitive to light/heat—store wisely to maintain potency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are natural body lotions safe for sensitive skin?

• Yes, the best natural body lotions are safe, but be sure to investigate any essential oils they contain if you are prone to allergies. If possible, test on a small area of your skin before using.

What’s the difference between natural and organic lotions?

• Natural: Made with ingredients derived from plants, minerals, or natural sources (e.g., aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter). However, the term "natural" isn’t tightly regulated, meaning companies can use it even if their product contains small amounts of synthetic additives or processed ingredients.
• Organic: Organic lotions are skincare products formulated with ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or chemical fertilizers. While the term suggests adherence to cleaner farming practices, its credibility depends on context—uncertified products may use 'organic' descriptively, whereas certified ones guarantee compliance with strict standards. Trusted certifications like USDA Organic and COSMOS ensure the products exclude synthetic pesticides.

Do Non-Toxic Lotions Expire Faster?

• Yes. Because they avoid synthetic preservatives (like parabens or phenoxyethanol), natural and organic lotions typically last 6–12 months after opening—compared to 2–3 years for conventional products.
• Preservative-free formulas rely on natural antimicrobials (e.g., rosemary extract, vitamin E, or honey), which are gentler but less potent than lab-made alternatives.
• Botanical oils and butters (like coconut oil or shea butter) can oxidize or turn rancid over time.

What Can I Do to Make Natural Lotions Last Longer?

• Store Properly
  • Keep in a cool, dark place (not the bathroom—humidity and heat speed up degradation).
  • Use clean, dry hands or a spatula to avoid bacterial contamination.
• Preserve with Fridge or Antioxidants
  • Refrigerate if your lotion contains fresh ingredients (e.g., aloe juice or probiotics).
  • Look for natural stabilizers like vitamin E, grapefruit seed extract, or radish root ferment.
• Buy Smaller Quantities
  • Purchase travel sizes or 4–8 oz bottles to ensure you use it up before expiration.
• Check for Spoilage Signs
  • Smell: Rancidity (a "off" crayon-like odor) or fermentation (sour notes).
  • Texture: Separation, mold, or unexpected thickness.
• Pro Tip: If your lotion lacks an expiration date, label the bottle with the day you opened it!

Final Thoughts: Finding the best natural body lotions to use will support your skin health and your commitment to sustainability.

Note: If you have specific questions about an ingredient in the products we carry, we have compiled a guide to ingredients with their human and environmental concerns.