Skin

14 Fragrance-Free Moisturizers That Are Gentle on Sensitive Skin

A good-smelling cream can be appealing, but it isn’t always skin-friendly, especially if your skin leans sensitive. We rounded up fragrance-free moisturizers that focus on hydration, skin barrier care, and calming ingredients, without unnecessary extras.

January 15, 2026

A good moisturizer is one of skincare’s non-negotiables. Used consistently, it helps skin look hydrated, healthy, and plump. When it comes to choosing one, the formula matters far more than the texture or what the jar promises, and fragrance is often where things get tricky.

Yes, scented moisturizers can feel indulgent, but for some skin types, fragrance can trigger irritation. Burning, redness, flaking, and itchiness are not uncommon reactions. That’s why fragrance-free formulas are often recommended for sensitive skin, and often preferred by those dealing with rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis. They also appeal to anyone who prefers streamlined formulas with fewer potential irritants.

Many fragrance-free moisturizers rely on ingredients like green tea, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, glycerin, ceramides, and aloe vera to hydrate, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier. Some may still have a subtle scent due to botanical ingredients. If your skin is reactive, it’s worth checking whether a formula contains essential oils, even if it’s labeled fragrance-free.

Ahead, 14 fragrance-free moisturizers that help support the skin barrier, ease sensitivity, and keep skin comfortably hydrated.


La Roche-Posay Sensitive Riche Moisturizer, $21

Key ingredients: Squalane, niacinamide, glycerin, and shea butter

This rich formula deeply hydrates dry, sensitive skin. Squalane and shea butter deliver long-lasting moisture, while niacinamide supports the skin barrier.

 

Augustinus Bader The Cream, $195

Key ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, glycerin, and peptides

Built around the brand’s patented TFC8 complex, The Cream focuses on long-term skin resilience. Aloe vera and panthenol help calm redness, while ascorbic acid targets uneven tone.

 

Tower 28 SOS Daily Skin Barrier Redness Recovery Moisturizer, $24

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, and allantoin

Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and designed with sensitive skin in mind. Ceramides and allantoin help soothe redness and irritation, while hyaluronic acid and glycerin replenish moisture levels.

 

Tata Harper Superkind Fortifying Moisturizer, $138

Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, grapeseed oil, squalane, and glycerin

A gentle, nourishing formula for compromised skin barriers. Centella asiatica helps calm sensitivity, while squalane and grapeseed oil nourish without feeling heavy.

 

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, $14.99

Key ingredients: Glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid

A ceramide-driven classic that focuses on moisture retention and barrier support. This no-frills cream works equally well on the face and body, especially for very dry skin.

 

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, $39

Key ingredients: Tocopherol, squalane, and avocado oil

Rich yet non-greasy, this cream nourishes dry skin while helping support comfort in colder weather. Squalane and avocado oil restore moisture, making it a cold-weather staple.

 

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, $12.50

Key ingredients: Tocopherol, allantoin, arginine, and glycerin

Urea, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids help prevent moisture loss, while lactic acid gently supports a more even-looking complexion. Tocopherol adds antioxidant protection.


Torriden Dive-In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Cream, $31.42

Key ingredients: Witch hazel, allantoin, beta-glucan, and madecassoside

A calming, hydration-focused cream that helps relieve dryness and tightness. Allantoin and beta-glucan soothe the skin, while madecassoside supports recovery.

 

TIA’M Hyaluronic Moisture Revive Cream, $14.41

Key ingredients: Argan oil, ceramides, peptides, and allantoin

Ceramides and botanical oils replenish moisture, while peptides and beta-glucan help soften the look of fine lines and post-acne marks.

 

Bioderma Sensibio AR+ Soothing Care, $32.99

Key ingredients: Squalane, tocopherol, green tea, and glycerin

Ideal for redness-prone skin. Green tea helps reduce visible irritation, while squalane and glycerin deliver lightweight hydration. It also doubles as a makeup base.

 

Chanel La Solution 10 de Chanel Sensitive Skin Cream, $87

Key ingredients: Squalane, green tea, shea butter, and glycerin

The formula keeps things intentionally simple for sensitive skin. Green tea offers antioxidant support, while squalane and shea butter keep skin soft and supple.

 

Shani Darden Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer, $50

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, collagen

This moisturizer delivers hydration without adding shine. Hyaluronic acid helps keep moisture levels balanced throughout the day.

 

U Beauty The Super Hydrator, £163

Key ingredients: Peptides, grapeseed oil, oat, and argan oil

A smart formula that combines hydration with skin-renewing properties. Glycolic and mandelic acids address uneven tone, while peptides and plant oils support the skin barrier. Oat helps calm reactive skin.

 

Biologique Recherche Émulsion Originelle Régénérante, Price upon request

Key ingredients: Squalane, macadamia oil

A nourishing emulsion that supports skin vitality. Squalane and macadamia oil replenish moisture, with vitamin E providing antioxidant protection.