The Best Unscented Lotions of 2024
Keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized is one of the core tenets of skincare and self-care. While hydration is the number one thing a lotion should provide, there are hundreds of different lotion scents out there. While there’s nothing wrong with strong scents, sometimes all you want is an effective, hydrating lotion without any added scents (especially for those of us with sensitive skin).
We reviewed several of the best unscented lotions based on features like absorbency, texture, viscosity, and ingredients. The best overall lotion is the Lubriderm Unscented Lotion because of its non-greasy, moisturizing formula and fast absorption time.
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Best Overall
Lubriderm Unscented Lotion
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Best For Sensitive Skin
Vanicream Unscented Lotion
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Most Hydrating
Eucerin Unscented Lotion
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Most Healing
Vaseline Unscented Lotion
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Best for Dry Skin
Nivea Unscented Lotion
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The Best Unscented Lotion Buying Guide
We've compiled a list of key factors to consider before buying an unscented lotion. There are so many on the market that searching for the best one for you can be very overwhelming. Luckily, we've got you covered!
Ingredients
Pay close attention to the ingredients in the lotion you are considering buying. Read all labels carefully to watch for any allergens or irritants. Avoid anything with parabens or synthetic fragrances, as these can cause irritation. Additionally, make sure to look for natural oils like jojoba or coconut oil, which can provide deep hydration and nourishment.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
If you’re looking to buy an unscented lotion with SPF, try to look for products with at least SPF 30 or higher. You'll get full coverage and maximum protection from harmful UV rays if used regularly and combined with other sun protection methods.
Skin Type Suitability
It's essential to choose an unscented lotion suitable for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, look for gentle formulas specifically designed for sensitive skin, which will help protect against any potentially irritating ingredients. Lotions containing natural plant-based oils and rich emollients that provide lasting hydration and nourishment would benefit those who have dry skin. Oily skin types may want something lighter, like a water-based lotion or an oil-free formula.
Absorbency/Thickness
It’s important to get a lotion that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. Some lotions have formulas that are on the thicker side and can appear to be greasy but need to be worked into the skin in order to properly absorb into it. Look out for water-based or oil-free formulas. These are usually non-greasy when dried onto the skin after application.
Availability of Fragrance-free Options
Most unscented lotions do not contain synthetic fragrances, but check all labels, even if they say “fragrance-free.” Brands will sometimes use “fragrance-free” and “unscented” interchangeably, but “fragrance-free” doesn't always mean there are no fragrances present. Sometimes, it means that additional masking fragrances have been added to neutralize the scent of other ingredients, so remember to keep that in mind!
Environmental Factors/Sustainability
Many brands strive towards sustainable practices in their production processes while promoting cruelty-free formulas where possible. Make sure to check labels carefully before the purchase to ensure it meets your personal ethical standards. Some brands may also partner up with charities/organizations whose mission is aligned with projects related to protecting our environment. Look out for those markers/logos on the packaging if you would like to support such causes through your purchases.
Long-lasting Hydration
Look out for formulas made with natural plant extracts that contain natural hydration, such as shea butter, aloe vera, or glycerin. These are great for keeping your skin moisturized throughout the day without feeling greasy or uncomfortable.
Comparing the Best Unscented Lotions of 2024
Lubriderm Unscented Lotion
Pros
- Easy to spread
- Large 24-ounce bottle
- Can be used for tattoo aftercare
Cons
- Consistency may be too thin for some
Lubriderm’s unscented lotion is the perfect choice for moisturizing and hydrating dry skin. It’s clinically proven to moisturize skin for 24 hours, with a non-greasy and fragrance-free formula. The large 24-fluid-ounce container comes with a handy pump that makes it easy to apply, and it’s suitable for the entire family.
This lotion is even enriched with pro-vitamin B5 and essential moisturizers that are found naturally in healthy skin, creating an improved moisture barrier. This non-greasy formula gently absorbs into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration that will help you achieve healthy-looking skin. The fragrance-free lotion also doubles as a great tattoo aftercare as well, helping to replace lost moisture in the skin as tattoos heal. Using this lotion every day will leave you with full body hydration that lasts all day long.
Vanicream Unscented Lotion
Pros
- Dries quickly, leaving skin soft
- No harmful ingredients
- Can be used on face and body
Cons
- May take a while to absorb
The Vanicream unscented lotion is a great choice for those with sensitive skin. Its special blend of ingredients is designed to soothe and moisturize dry skin, making it ideal for daily use. It's free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens and formaldehyde releasers, meaning it will not cause any irritation. The lotion has even been awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, giving added assurance that it is a product of high quality and suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
This lotion is free from fragrances and masking fragrances so it won't overwhelm your senses. It is also non-comedogenic and will not clog pores, giving you peace of mind that your skin will be kept safe and healthy. On top of all these features, the lotion comes in a convenient pump bottle making it easy to apply as often as needed to the face, hands, feet, and body. Overall, this particular unscented lotion makes for a great moisturizer for those with sensitive skin. Its special blend of ingredients has been designed to prevent irritation or clogged pores while still being able to provide long-lasting hydration.
Eucerin Unscented Lotion
Pros
- Thick texture
- Unscented and non-irritating
- Great for extremely dry skin
Cons
- Might not work for oily skin
Eucerin’s unscented lotion is a perfect choice for those seeking to reduce rough and bumpy skin. This body lotion is enriched with urea and natural moisturizing factors, providing 48 hours of intense hydration and helping to smooth the skin's texture. Urea is known for its extremely powerful keratolytic properties, meaning it assists in removing dead skin cells from the surface and providing lasting hydration.
The lotion’s natural moisturizing factors, such as sugar derivatives, amino acids and other compounds, provide deep hydration on a cellular level. This lotion is also lightweight, making it pleasant to use every day. Even when applied twice daily for maximum effectiveness, one bottle will last for several weeks due to its generous size. Overall, this is an excellent choice for those seeking relief from rough and bumpy skin due to intense hydration, its natural moisturizing factors, and its pleasant lightweight feel. It also provides an easy way to store what you need within arm's reach thanks to its convenient pump bottle design.
Vaseline Unscented Lotion
Pros
- Close-cap design for easy portability
- Heals skin in just five days
- Absorbs quickly
Cons
- Can leave a sticky feeling behind
Vaseline’s Intensive Care unscented lotion is an amazing choice for anyone looking to improve the health of their skin. It provides incredibly intense hydration that helps to repair and protect from external irritants. This lotion is perfect for those with sensitive skin, as it is free from artificial fragrance. Additionally, it helps to heal dry, cracked skin by providing long-lasting moisturization.
The formula contains microdroplets of Vaseline jelly, which deeply penetrates the skin's surface and locks in moisture. It also features Vitamin B3 and antioxidants which help to reduce signs of damage caused by the environment. Not only does this product provide deep hydration, but it can also help soothe dryness associated with eczema. With its unique combination of ingredients, this lotion will leave your skin feeling refreshed and nourished all day long.
Nivea Unscented Lotion
Pros
- Moisturizes well and lasts throughout the day
- Non-greasy formula
- Helps to heal and soothe dry, cracked skin
Cons
- Takes a while to absorb and dissolve into the skin completely
Nivea’s Unscented Lotion rescues dry, parched skin with its intensely healing, nourishing formula. This lotion has a deep moisture serum combined with provitamin B5 that penetrates deep into your skin– with hydration lasting up to 72 hours. After just one application, the difference is immediately noticeable. It is especially good for keeping your elbows and knees from becoming ashy and dry. There’s no need to constantly reapply lotion throughout the day (except maybe your hands!).
The lotion comes in a pump bottle, so you don’t have to squeeze or twist a cap off with recently-lotioned fingers. When you choose Nivea, you're not just buying a product but investing in a 130-year legacy of quality skin care and reliability.
People Also Ask
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Q: Do some unscented lotions contain dye or coloring agents?
A:Yes, some unscented lotions contain dye or coloring agents due to their low allergen levels; however, most of these remain free of added dyes or coloring agents since they aren’t necessary for the product’s performance.
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Q: Does unscented lotion still have a noticeable scent?
A:No, unscented lotion does not have a noticeable scent. It contains no fragrances or perfumes, so it shouldn’t have a discernible smell. If anything, it would smell faintly like any ingredient featured in the lotion, like cocoa butter or argan oil.
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Q: How long is an unscented lotion’s shelf life?
A:Generally, an unscented lotion can last anywhere from 12 to 24 months after opening. It is a good idea to check the label for an expiration date just to be sure.
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Q: What benefits does an unscented lotion have over a scented one?
A:Unscented lotions are less likely to irritate sensitive skin due to their lack of added fragrances or perfumes. They are also less likely to interfere with other skincare products. Unscented lotions are great for people who wear perfumer cologne as they won't clash with or overpower the scent of the fragrance.
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Q: Can unscented lotion be used on the face?
A:Technically, yes, it can, but unscented lotions are still lotions intended for the body. Unless the packaging specifies that it can be used for the face and body, try finding an unscented facial moisturizer to use on your face.
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We try various products, so we can recommend our favorites, and we also summarize feedback and data from other customers. Data, like product reviews and ratings, helps us recommend the best product choices for individual price points and needs.
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