Best face moisturizers without dimethicone – for every skin type

And let me just say from the start that ingredients are super important.

Skincare products are regulated and required to meet certain safety standards, so it’s safe to say that most things you can purchase are safe to use. However, there’s always the personal factor – how your specific skin will react to a specific product formulation, and even – a specific ingredient.

One widely used ingredient that is also still a bit controversial is dimethicone – a popular silicone used in the formulations of many skincare products.

This ingredient is proven to be safe and effective, however, some users still prefer to avoid products containing it, just to be on the safer side.

So today I’ll introduce you to a few high-quality face moisturizers without dimethicone, for those of you looking for products that do not use it.

What are dimethicone-free moisturizers?

But what is a dimethicone-free moisturizer in the first place?

And why would people opt for such creams and lotions?

Well, for starters, dimethicone-free lotions, creams, and moisturizing products don’t contain this specific type of silicone in their ingredient list.

I’ll tell you more about dimethicone, but in a nutshell, people with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin sometimes choose to avoid this compound.

Overall, dimethicone has a bad reputation online despite being scientifically proven safe for the skin and the environment. Michelle from Lab Muffin has a great article dedicated to myth-busting regarding silicones, so I won’t be going into details about this in my post – simply read hers if you’re interested 🙂

However, I do still want to recommend some great products that don’t contain dimethicone for those of you who want to go the extra mile and exclude the ingredient from your personal product shelves. After all, we must find what works for us regardless of what science says.

Dimethicone explained

It is silicone popular in skincare products like moisturizers and primers. But there’s more. It can also be found in sunscreens, fake tanners, shampoos and conditioners, makeup, and even lubricants.

Dimethicone is polydimethylsiloxane (a substance derived from silicone, a silicone polymer). It supports the skin barrier and helps the skin retain moisture. At the same time, it also shields the skin against allergens and irritations.

Dimethicone is a powerful smoothing agent as it fills in wrinkles and lines, helping the skin look younger and healthier (hence its active participation in primers). Oftentimes, it’s used as a substitute for petrolatum.

To smooth out the skin, dimethicone relies on its occlusive nature. However, although this is an advantage for some, it’s considered a drawback for others. By locking in moisture, it’s also capturing things like bacteria, oil, and dirt into the skin, which can potentially cause acne.

Dimethicone is a synthetic ingredient. There’s a specific chemical engineering process behind the substance. Although it breaks down quickly in the environment, the creation process is very harmful to the environment, so that is another reason why people opt to avoid it.

Other common silicones in face creams

Besides the various forms of dimethicone, other common silicones are used in skincare.

As I’ve already mentioned, no scientific findings support the statement that dimethicone is bad for our skin in any way.

The same goes for the rest of the silicones in skin care.

There are many myths, misinformation, and fear-mongering in the skincare space. And the fact that most people don’t have the time and desire to educate themselves on the minutiae of beauty products only makes it easier to have incorrect beliefs.

However, If you truly know that your skin is reactive to dimethicone, you may want to be wary of those other compounds too, and choose a silicon-free moisturizer. The other common silicones include cyclohexasiloxane, cyclopentasiloxane, and phenyl trimethicone.

8 of the best moisturizers without dimethicone

Luckily, there are plenty of dimethicone-free moisturizers on the market today. Since people generate demand, brands respond with supply.

Below, I’ve shared a few of the top dimethicone-free moisturizers from my list and I’ve divided them into appropriate products for different skin types.

If you have been looking for a proper silicone-free moisturizer for your specific skin type, chances are that you’ll find some here.

Dimethicone-free moisturizers for oily, acne-prone skin

Let’s start with silicone-free moisturizers for acne-prone skin.

Finding the right cream or lotion for oily skin is always a challenge. You want to hydrate the skin, but not too much as it’s already producing enough sebum. So, when it comes to products free from dimethicone, here are my suggestions.

Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

This silicone-free face moisturizer for oily skin is a best-seller in its category. You’ll see it all around TikTok, Youtube, and Insta, and that’s for a good reason – it’s one of the best lightweight gels out there.

Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream comes in a sleek tube in two sizes – 2oz and 4oz – and costs between $15 and $23

Product features:

• Ultra-light moisturizing gel-cream;
• Formula rich in antioxidants and soothing ingredients;
• Absorbs instantly and leaves the skin extra fresh;
• Also great for sensitive skin;

This silicone-free gel moisturizer is water-based and free from fragrance, essential oils, and drying alcohol. It gives oily skin all the hydration it needs for the day, without weighing it down.

I love how seamlessly it goes on the skin, and how well it plays with the rest of my morning routine – makeup sits well on top and there’s no pilling.

Notable ingredients:

• Glycerin and squalane are responsible for hydration and moisture retention. Both contribute to how well the gel moisturizes.
• We have some soothing aloe extract and green tea extract – both are super lightweight and help the moisturizer to not feel heavy on the skin.
• The green tea extract also has some well-appreciated antioxidant properties which you’ll need in your morning routine.

Pros:

• This is a staple in many skin care lovers’ stashes – a proven silicone-free facial moisturizer that just feels great on oily skin.
• I appreciate the fact that the gel is relatively affordable and that it’s available in two sizes. This allows the first-time buyer to test the smaller tube, and the true fan – to stockpile on the larger bottle.
• The moisturizer wears well throughout the day – it doesn’t pill underneath sunscreen and makeup, and it’s not as drying as to encourage the glands to produce more oils – it’s just the right amount of moisture that you’re getting.

Cons:

• If your skin is sensitized due to treatments, procedures, or any other reason, you might sense irritation when applying this moisturizer.
• If you have any other skin type, you will find this moisturizer insufficient.

Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel

Product features:

• Fragrance-free
• Cruelty-free
• Easy absorption
• High aloe contents
• Dermatologically tested
• Mildly acidic
• Vegan-friendly

This is my personal favorite in the category of dimethicone-free moisturizers for oily skin.

The moisturizer truly helps reduce acne, in my opinion, calms down irritated skin, and improves the skin tone with use.

It offers sufficient hydration for the skin.

Two ingredients caught my attention – bee propolis and aloe leaf juice – combined together, these can soothe irritated skin – perfect for any lingering post-acne redness.

Notable ingredients:

• Propolis extract – the product comes with 10% bee propolis, which is derived from a honeycomb. It contains flavonoids (an antioxidant that shields the skin against free radicals). The extract offers skin protection and is soothing and moisturizing. It also provides a powerful mix of nutrients and anti-inflammatory substances.
• Aloe Barbadensis leaf extract – the product contains 80% aloe leaf juice, which contains polysaccharides and helps relieve the skin from irritation. This is what is mainly at work to soothe your skin. It also provides moisture and nutrition to the skin.

Pros:
I love how lightweight this gelly moisturizer feels!

It nourishes the skin and does a wonderful job of soothing acne. It’s easily absorbable by the skin and doesn’t leave behind any sticky residue.

A friend of mine with super sensitive skin shared that they love the fact that the moisturizer doesn’t contain any artificial colorings or chemical fragrances.

Although it’s mostly marketed to people with oily skin, it’s also perfect for people with normal and sensitive skin.

Things to have in mind:
I don’t have any cons to share about this one. However, I noticed a weird thing when pairing this moisturizer with TO’s niacinamide serum – when applied on top of it, the Benton moisturizer instantly loses its gelly consistency and turns completely watery on my skin. It still moisturizes well, it just was a weird observation.

Sebamed Clear Face Care Gel

The last product from my list of moisturizers without dimethicone for acne-prone skin is the Clear Face Care Gel by Sebamed.

Product features:

• Moisturizing formula with hyaluronic acid and Aloe
• Barbadenis
• Light texture
• Doesn’t leave behind oily traces
• Absorbs quickly

This moisturizer has a water-based formula and helps soothe acne-prone skin. It balances the skin’s pH level by working with your skin’s pH value.

Notable ingredients:

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice – natural aloe calms skin irritations and has antibacterial properties.
• Panthenol (Vitamin B5) – a powerful ingredient that heals acne lesions.
• Sodium Hyaluronate – is pretty much the same thing as hyaluronic acid, which moisturizes the skin.

Pros:
This face cream is loved and widely recommended by derms because it’s specifically designed for tackling pimples, blackheads, and blemishes.

Because it’s water-based, the moisturizer helps prevent clogged pores. It also stands out with amazing skin tolerance.

I personally loved the texture of it because it’s non-greasy. Plus, it may seem like it comes in a tiny package but it lasts for a month or longer as you don’t need to use it a lot to get results.

Things to have in mind:
This might not be the best option come wintertime because it won’t provide sufficient moisture to the skin. It’s definitely a product that’s not recommended for people with dry skin.

The cream is also pricier than other similar moisturizers, especially considering that it comes in a 50 ml tube.

Dimethicone-free moisturizers for dry skin

So what if you have dry skin? What silicone-free moisturizers can you use then?

Boscia Chia Seed Moisture Cream

Product features:

• Silicone-free
• Fragrance-free
• Gluten-free
• Vegan
• Cruelty-free

The Boscia Chia Seed Moisture Cream hydrates, restores, and repairs dry skin.

The cream is extremely rich in essential phytonutrients and omega-fatty acids derived from Chia seed oil and Swiss glacier water.

This moisturizer works wonders when it comes to enhancing the moisture balance of dry skin. The results can be seen instantly, but it also plays a huge role when it comes to long-term results too.

Notable ingredients:

• Chia seed oil – is a strong hydrating agent that moisturizes the skin and minimizes trans-epidermal water loss. It works to eliminate dryness in the long term, soothes the skin, and comes with high concentrations of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a powerful anti-inflammatory and calming ingredient.
• Glacier water – the encapsulated and naturally mineral-enriched Swiss glacier water penetrate the skin to offer lasting hydration. It also helps protect the skin cells and guarantees moisturized skin throughout the whole day.
• Elderberry extract – helps the skin remain protected against stress and pollution thanks to its antioxidant properties. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, E, and B6, enhancing the skin’s radiance. The ingredient also has anti-inflammatory benefits for those who suffer any form of irritation.

Pros:
The moisturizer is infused with some natural ingredients that provide benefits to the skin.

At the same time, it doesn’t contain any comedogenic ingredients. It doesn’t clog the pores or aggravate the skin.

The consistency is great – it’s not oily but is thick and moisturizing enough. It takes a few minutes to dry out completely and after that, your skin will feel bouncy and moisturized.

I also love that it doesn’t have a smell and feels very natural. It’s suitable for both day and night use.

Things to have in mind:
Compared to other moisturizers, the product is on the pricier end. This is not necessarily a bad thing, it’s just less accessible to people with a low budget for dimethicone-free moisturizers.

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Face Cream Moisturizer

Product Features:

• Silicone-free
• Paraben-free
• Mineral oil-free
• Allergy tested
• Dermatologist tested

The Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Face Cream Moisturizer is packed with natural hyaluronic acid and Vichy volcanic water. It’s one of the top recommended daily moisturizers without any dimethicone.

It’s deeply soothing and replenishing, offering lasting hydration for up to 48 hours. The product comes with 97% natural origin ingredients that mixed together smooth the skin lines and revive the skin.

Notable ingredients:

• Hyaluronic acid – moisturizes the skin, plums, and hydrates.
• Plant sugar – locks in water in the skin, preventing water loss and enhancing skin radiance. In short, the sugar molecules merge to form a film that gives us the firm and lifted look we’re after.
• Vichy volcanic water – supports the skin barrier and helps for faster skin regeneration. It has pore-tightening qualities, helps maintain sebum levels, and minimizes water loss.

Pros:
When I tried this moisturizer I really enjoyed the velvety-soft, rich texture.
It evenly distributes moisture throughout the skin and is especially soothing for people with sensitive skin. It will make your face feel plumped and moisturized.

It also smells lovely and is definitely among the most affordable dimethicone-free moisturizers out there.

Things to have in mind:
I noticed that it doesn’t layer well with some other skincare like vitamin C serums and some primers.

A lot of people share that they don’t feel like it’s the most appropriate moisturizer for everyday use as they feel the texture stick to the skin like glue. Of course, this all comes down to your skin type, I personally haven’t had such experiences.

Dimethicone-free moisturizers for sensitive skin

MyChelle Dermaceuticals Renew Remarkable Retinal Night Cream

Product features:

• Petroleum-free
• Paraben-free
• Without GMO
• Gluten-free
• Phthalates free
• Silicone free
• Sulfates free
• Urea free
• Fragrance-free
• Colorings free
• Cruelty-free
• Allergy tested

The MyChelle Dermaceuticals Renew Remarkable Retinal Night Cream is a powerful rejuvenating cream that is specifically designed for night use.

It enhances the skin’s radiance and adds firmness to it.

Its formula is deeply hydrating, minimizing signs of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a top choice for its anti-aging properties and is also a suitable product for mature skin.

Notable ingredients:

• Retinals (Vitamin A) – offer a similar effect to prescription retinoids. The ingredient will make your skin softer, and smoother, and will add radiance. It has powerful anti-aging properties and can reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the production of collagen.
• Monk’s Pepper – an ingredient that is extracted from the chaste tree. It offers a range of medicinal properties, along with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Monk’s pepper can help you combat the skin’s oil production and can also help tackle acne.
• ChroNOline™ Peptide – restores the cell-matrix processes related to the regeneration of cells. Stimulates the skin’s natural repair process and reduces signs of aging.

Pros:
I love the fact that this moisturizer is tested by dermatologists, which always gives me extra peace of mind.

In my opinion, this is one of the best retinol creams. It doesn’t clog pores and it will calm down any red areas on the face.

Things to have in mind:
If you’re looking for a simple moisturizer with a few ingredients, this is not the right choice for you. The product is a bit heavy and risky for specific skin types or conditions.

In addition, as it utilizes the power of vitamin A, it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Make sure to always use sunscreen in the morning to prevent any damage.

Other dimethicone-free moisturizers suitable for sensitive skin are the Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel and the Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Face Cream Moisturizer which I already discussed above, in the oily and dry skin sections.

Silicone-free moisturizers with SPF

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Product features:

• Oil-free
• Refillable
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan
• Gluten-free
• Non-comedogenic

The Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF30 is a refillable product that acts as a 2-in-1.

It’s both a moisturizer and sun care product that is non-comedogenic, invisible on all skin tones (Rihanna’s brand is known for inclusivity), and can target dark spots.

The moisturizer layers perfectly with makeup and is specifically designed for daytime use.

The product is also good for targeting discoloration. The hydration is instant and you’ll notice an improvement in fine lines and wrinkles.

Notable ingredients:

• Hyaluronic acid – I’ve already mentioned the hydrating capabilities of hyaluronic acid above.
• Kalahari melon – a watermelon that contains a range of useful antioxidants and vitamins, which will help your skin get the hydration it needs.
• Aloe vera – again, an ingredient that I touched upon in previous sections. In a nutshell, it soothes and calms the skin.
• Niacinamide – a form of vitamin B3 that can help minimize the appearance of dark spots. In addition, it can even out the skin tone and tackle the excess shining on the skin.
• Baobab – an African tree that produces superfruits rich in nutrients. It’s a powerful hydration agent.

SPF filters: The product uses chemical sun filters like octisalate, homosalate, and avobenzone, that won’t leave behind a white cast, no matter your skin type or shade.

Pros:

• Before testing this product I had read so many positive reviews about it and I truly agree with all of them!The texture is extremely light.
• The cream comes in a gentle pink color and really is invisible on your skin, you won’t even be able to tell that it’s there.
• There’s no chalkiness and it absorbs instantly without leaving any oily traces behind. If you have any dark spots, this moisturizer will help you take care of them over time.
• I simply fell in love with the desert melon scent – it makes you feel fresh and smell nice during the day.
• Regular use can also make your pores look tighter and smaller, your dark spots will decrease, and your skin will become firm and elastic.

Things to have in mind:

• People with combo or oily skin can find this too heavy. It’s best for dry and normal skin types.
• Although I loved how this product smells, a lot of people share that the scent is a bit too strong for them.
• It’s also a bit more expensive than other moisturizers, perhaps because of the SPF or since it’s a celebrity brand (this skincare series is released by Rihanna).

Are moisturizers with dimethicone safe?

Research supports the statement that dimethicone in skincare products is at safe levels and that there shouldn’t be any negative reactions to products containing the ingredient. The claims that dimethicone is bad, have been disproved on many occasions.

But if you find that this is, in fact, the ingredient that causes you trouble, by all means – opt for a moisturizer free of silicones.

Does dimethicone clog your pores?

There are no studies that have found that dimethicone clogs the pores. In fact, silicones are breathable enough for your skin to function properly. Moreover, silicones are on the lowest end of the comedogenicity scale with a rating of 1.

However, some people with oily or acne-prone skin report that products with dimethicone can trigger a chain of reactions, such as irritation, breakouts, and more.

Does dimethicone build up on the skin?

Again, there are no studies that have found that dimethicone is creating a layer on your skin over time, so no, it doesn’t build up on the surface of the skin.

However, you could say that dimethicone can create a buildup on the skin if you don’t wash up your face properly and some residue is still left on the surface.

How to choose a dimethicone-free lotion for your face

I’ve come to the end of my list of dimethicone-free moisturizers for every skin type.

However, there’s one more section I’d like to share with you.

Even if you have all of these suggestions in front of you, making the right choice may still be a struggle. Or, you may want to find your own favorite product and not rely on somebody else’s list.

Here are the most essential things to consider when choosing a dimethicone-free cream.

Skin suitability

Every skin type is different and has specific needs. Don’t forget this when choosing your dimethicone-free lotion.

Check the product details to see what type of skin it was originally developed for to make sure it will match your skin type. Check the reviews of the other users, too.

And, as always, perform a patch test before you go all in to avoid nasty surprises.

Free of “bad” chemicals

Bad in quotes, since there are no useless and inherently bad ingredients that are offered on the market.

There are simply those that are not good for your specific skin.

Go over the product description and the ingredient list, and look for any “bad” chemicals and ingredients that you would like to stay away from.

These may include parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic colors, fragrances, triclosan, toluene, and others – it all depends on your personal observations.

Full of good ingredients

At the same time, you should look for a moisturizer that has some of the “good” ingredients that can do some great things to your skin.

Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera extract, Centella Asiatica, ceramides, glycerin, and urea are just a few of the star ingredients.

Oil-free or non-comedogenic formula

Choosing an oil-free or non-comedogenic formula will help you stay away from clogged pores, breakouts, acne, and other undesired effects. Look for specific labels on the moisturizer that mark it as such.

I’d recommend this approach not only if you’re looking for a dimethicone-free moisturizer but for all skincare products you use, especially if you’re acne-prone.

Product consistency

Product consistency and texture should not be neglected.

Go for a cream that has a light texture rather than a thick one, as it will be easier for the skin to absorb it, eliminating the risks of residue.

However, also keep in mind when you intend to use the product. If you plan on using it during the day, you’ll want a moisturizer that is easily absorbed and able to be used alongside makeup.

On the other hand, a product that you’ll use in your evening routine should offer better hydration and should be thicker.

Accessibility

Make sure that the dimethicone-free cream you’ve set your eyes on can be easily found and purchased.

It’s best if you can find it online so that you can get it anytime you need to.

Once you fall in love with a product, and it becomes a staple for you, you’ll want to purchase it over and over again.

Price

Of course, price always plays a vital role in the choice of a moisturizer.

Find a dimethicone-free cream or lotion that meets your budget requirements and won’t dig a hole in your pocket. After all, you are looking for a long-term skincare addition.

Amount of product

If you’re uncertain about which product to choose, size can make a difference and shift the weight towards one of your options.

A larger jar or a bottle usually means that you’ll be able to use the product for longer and save yourself time and money for constantly repurchasing.

What to do if you can’t find a suitable moisturizer?

If you can’t find a decent dimethicone-free moisturizer that works for you, try oils.

In a nutshell, any non-comedogenic oil will work. Just put it on top of your moisturizing serum and you’re all set!

One of my suggestions is to try jojoba oil as it has amazing moisturizing properties. It’s most appropriate for oily and acne-prone skin as it can prevent breakouts.

You can also try hemp oil (which rejuvenates and nourishes the skin in addition to preventing flakiness and itchiness on dry skin ), grapeseed oil (which will hydrate and reduce redness), and safflower seed oil (another powerful moisturizing agent).

There are a ton of other oils that you can experiment with. I’ve shared additional information on different types of oil in another article that you can check out.

Wrap up

In conclusion, I’d say that if you’ve decided to go down the road of dimethicone-free moisturizers, there’s nothing to worry about.

There are plenty of alternatives that you can find on the skincare market today. If you have any experience with creams or lotions that are free from dimethicone or you’d like to share your experience with dimethicone in general, I’d love to hear your feedback.

Share your stories in the comments section below.