• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Pure and Simple Nourishment
  • About
    • Meet Dr. Erin Carter
    • My Food Philosophy
    • Press and Publications
    • Contact
  • Free Resources
  • Recipes
    • Holidays
      • Fall
      • Thanksgiving
      • Christmas
    • Breakfast
    • Main Course
    • Dessert
    • Sauces and Dips
    • Side Dish
    • Drinks
    • Vegetables
    • Snack
    • Meat and Fish
    • Recipe Wrap-Ups
    • SCD
    • GAPS
    • Whole30
    • AIP
    • Vegan
    • Paleo
    • Dairy-Free
    • Gluten-Free
    • Low FODMAP
    • Refined-Sugar-Free
  • Health
    • Health Information
    • Book Club
  • Nutrition
  • Favorites
    • Books
    • Tools
    • Skincare
  • Work With Me
    • Services
    • Skin Care Quiz
    • Contact
  • Skin Care
  • Weekly Workouts
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Summer
  • Recipes
  • Health Information
  • Meet Dr. Erin Carter
  • Services
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Summer
    • Recipes
    • Health Information
    • Meet Dr. Erin Carter
    • Services
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
  • ×
    Home » Health Information

    The 10 Best Non-Toxic Body Lotions of 2024 (Tried & Tested!)

    Modified: Aug 16, 2024 • Published: Nov 28, 2022 by Dr. Erin Carter • This post may contain affiliate links • 2 Comments

    420 shares
    • Share
    • Tweet
    A collage of non toxic body lotions and creams.
    A collage of non toxic body lotions and creams.

    This post reviews the best non-toxic body lotions and creams. Lotions that are made from healthy ingredients, and are free from parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrances and irritants. Many of these moisturizers are organic, cruelty free and natural too. 

    A collage of different body lotions with the title "The Best Non-Toxic Body Lotions" over them.

    Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links whereby if you purchase the product through that link I make a small commission. This does not cost you anything extra and allows me to keep this website running.

    Table of Contents
    • Why choose a safe body lotion?
    • The Best Non-Toxic Body Lotions
    • Not my favourites:
    • Ingredients to avoid in lotions:
    • Frequently asked questions:
    • Other health information you will like:
    • Our expertise:

    Why choose a safe body lotion?

    Most people have at least one body lotion in their home. These moisturizers can help skin stay moisturized, lock in hydration, smooth the skin, and can also help you smell really nice.

    Unfortunately, not all body lotions are created equally. Conventional body lotions can contain ingredients that are not so great for our health. Sadly, the regulations for the personal care industry are rather lacking in many countries (including both Canada and the US), which means that harmful ingredients, toxic chemicals, toxic ingredients, synthetic fragrances, and other skin irritants can end up in the products that are sold on shelves. That is why it’s important to always read product labels and only choose personal care products, such as body lotions, creams and moisturizers, that are made with safe, non-toxic ingredients. 

    The reason this is so important is that our skin is our body's largest organ, and many of the ingredients that we put on our skin get absorbed directly into our bloodstream, meaning that they can then impact our internal organs. This is why it's so important that the ingredients you are using on your skin be safe for health. 

    When it comes to body lotions, luckily there are now many brands that make your health and safety their priority, and formulate their products with safe ingredients. More and more brands are using natural, organic ingredients that are also often vegan, cruelty free, fragrance free and nontoxic. 

    Since I have been interested in non-toxic living for many years, over time I have tested A LOT of clean body lotions, some of which I loved, and some of which I didn't. Here I will share the ones that I think are the best and will give you my honest opinion on them including the good and the bad. These creams are all made with clean ingredients, are free from harmful chemicals, and includes natural lotions, organic lotions and vegan lotions too.

    The Best Non-Toxic Body Lotions

    Beautycounter Hydrating Body Lotion 

    A bottle of Beautycounter body lotion.

    Size: 240 mL or 8.11 ounces

    Price: $29 USD for the initial bottle and $28 USD for the refills

    Features and certifications: cruelty free, vegan, tested for contaminants, made with organic ingredients.

    The hydrating body lotion from Beautycounter is my my overall top pick for the best body lotion. Beautycounter takes the safety of their products very seriously, even going as far as testing every batch of products for contaminants to ensure that no harmful ingredients end up in their products. No other brand does this to ensure product safety which is why this is my top pick.

    What I like about it:

    • This lotion is light weight and non greasy.
    • Is scented with essential oils and is made without synthetic fragrances, parabens or phthalates.
    • It's great for those with sensitive skin.
    • The product is eco-friendly because you initially buy a bottle, and then simply purchase the refills after that. Plus the bottles are made with aluminum rather than plastic.
    • I love the light and fresh scent that this lotion has.

    Cons:

    • It is more expensive than some of the other lotions in this roundup.
    • It's a light weight lotion so isn't as hydrating as some of the others in this review.
    Shop on Ulta

    Primally Pure Body Butter

    A glass jar of Primally Pure body butter.

    Size: 4 ounces or 8 ounces

    Price: $26 USD for 4 oz and $46 USD for 8 oz - be sure to use my 10% off code to help you save money!

    Features and certifications: all natural ingredients, made with organic ingredients.

    Primally Pure makes amazing natural body care products, and their body butter is the best body butter! It is so hydrating! This is my top pick for the best non-toxic body butter.

    Why I like it:

    • It's made with all natural ingredients including tallow from grass fed cows which is rich in Vitamins A, D, E and K. It's so rich and hydrating!
    • The formula is so thick, smooth and creamy.
    • I also love using this body butter as a really hydrating hand cream. 
    • It's great for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
    • Comes in a few different scents, which are all naturally scented with essential oils. My personal favourite scent is the citrus mint one.
    • Comes in a recyclable and reusable glass jar.

    Cons:

    • Is more expensive than some of the other options in this review.
    • Is not vegan.
    Shop for Primally Pure body butter - new customers use the code PUREANDSIMPLE at checkout to get 10% off your first order!

    Attitude Body Lotion

    A green bottle of Attitude brand body lotion.

    Size: 16 ounces

    Price: $19.35 USD

    Features and certifications: Made in Canada, cruelty free, vegan, EWG verified, recyclable, and Ecologo certified, biodegradable and low aquatic toxicity.

    Pros:

    • Attitude body lotions are an affordable option that are easily found in many drug stores and grocery stores.
    • They are made with hypoallergenic, natural ingredients that are great for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
    • Their products are also eco-friendly.
    • Their lotion comes in many different scents.
    • Rubs in easily and no sticky residue.

    Cons:

    • Packaged in plastic.
    • It's not a super hydrating lotion so if that is what you are looking for I would choose a more hydrating formula or a body butter.
    Shop for Attitude body lotion on Amazon
    Shop at Attitude

    100% Pure Body Lotion

    A bottle of 100% Pure body lotion with a grapefruit on it.

    Size: 8 ounces

    Price: $26 USD

    Certifications and features: Cruelty free, vegan, gluten free, made in the USA.

    Pros:

    • It is made with natural ingredients.
    • Comes in many different scents including vanilla bean and honey almond.
    • Compared to the body butter the is a light weight moisturizer if that is your preference.

    Cons:

    • Packaged in plastic so not as sustainable as some of the others in this review.
    • Not as hydrating as some of the other lotions in this review.
    • Some of the scents are a little strong for my personal preference.
    • No safety certifications.
    Shop for 100% Pure body lotion on Amazon
    Shop at 100% Pure

    Acure Seriously Soothing Body Lotion

    A bottle of Acure body lotion.

    Size: 8 ounces

    Price: $11.07 USD

    Features and certifications: Vegan and cruelty free.

    Acure body lotion is another great safe option. It's made with cocoa butter, colloidal oatmeal, sunflower seed oil and aloe.

    Pros:

    • This lotion is paraben free, sulfate free, mineral oil free, petrolatum free, and formaldehyde free.
    • This lotion is unscented so if you are sensitive to scents or fragrances this is a great option. 
    • Easily found at drug stores and Target.
    • It is very highly rated online.
    • It's thick and highly moisturizing.

    Cons:

    • I personally like how thick and hydrating this lotion is but some people have complained that they find it hard to rub in and slow to absorb.
    Shop for Acure body lotion on Amazon
    Shop at Target
    Shop at Acure

    Babo Botanicals Lotion

    A bottle of Babo Botanicals body lotion.

    Size: 8 ounces or 237 mL

    Price: $12.32 USD

    Features and certifications: EWG verified, vegan, cruelty free, pediatrician tested, safe for babies and children.

    Babo Botanicals makes amazing non-toxic and clean products for babies and adults with sensitive skin. They offer a variety of body lotions, some being fragrance free, and some scented with essential oils such as lavender.

    Pros:

    • Made with plant based ingredients.
    • Their moisturizers are hypoallergenic to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
    • Their lotion is gluten free, soy free and dairy free. 
    • Many people comment on how good it is for eczema.
    • More affordable than some of the other lotions in this review.
    • Rubs in really easily.

    Cons:

    • Comes in plastic packaging.
    • I didn't find it as hydrating as some of the other lotions in this collection.
    Shop for Babo Botanicals body lotion on Amazon
    Shop on the Detox Market

    Dr. Bronners Organic Hand and Body Lotion

    A bottle of Dr. Bronner's body lotion.

    Size: 8 ounces

    Price: $16.57 USD

    Features and certifications: Cruelty free, non-GMO, USDA organic, fair trade.

    Dr. Bronner's has been making natural and organic soaps and organic body lotions for over 100 years. Their organic hand and body lotion comes in many different scents and is vegan and made without any animal products.

    Pros:

    • It's good for most skin types, including sensitive, dry, rough or combination skin.
    • Easily found at drug stores and Target.
    • Is light weight and absorbs easily into the skin.

    Cons:

    • Can be ashy on darker skin tones.
    • This may sound vain but these bottles just aren't as pretty as some others.
    Shop for Dr. Bronner's body lotion on Amazon
    Shop at Target

    Everyone Body Lotion

    A bottle of Everyone brand body lotion.

    Size: 32 ounces

    Price: $29.85 USD for a 2-pack

    Features and certifications: EWG verified, GMO free, cruelty free, gluten free.

    Everyone makes body lotions in many different scents. Their lotion is plant based and made with pure essential oils, coconut oil, aloe vera and vitamin E.

    Pros:

    • Is a very affordable lotion.
    • Is an ultra gentle formula that is gentle enough to be used on your face and body.
    • This lotion is paraben free, triclosan free, and synthetic fragrance free. 
    • Their bottles are also made with previously-used recycled plastic so are an eco-friendly option.
    • Easily found at drug stores and grocery stores.
    • This lotion absorbs really well.

    Cons:

    • The bottles are quite large so they aren't great for travelling.
    • They don't have the best looking labels in my opinion, and look less luxurious on your counter compared to some other lotions.
    Shop for Everyone body lotion on Amazon
    Shop at EO products

    Pipette Body Lotion

    A bottle of Pipette brand body lotion.

    Size: 170 mL or 5.7 ounces

    Price: $8.99 USD

    Features and certifications: Hypoallergenic, EWG verified, vegan and cruelty free.

    Pipette is another great clean beauty brand. They make safe products for babies and those with sensitive skin. Their baby body lotion is a daily moisturizer that you can use all over, head-to-toe.

    Pros:

    • It's lightweight and quick absorbing.
    • Specifically designed for babies' sensitive skin.
    • My friends who have children love this lotion!
    • You can get this one at Target and grocery stores.
    • Light weigh enough to carry in a purse, gym bag or diaper bag.

    Cons:

    • The scent is not my favorite and I prefer the unscented option.
    • Packaged in plastic.
    Shop for Pipette body lotion on Amazon
    Shop at Target

    Rocky Mountain Soap Body Lotion

    A bottle of Rocky Mountain Soap Company brand body lotion.

    Size: 240 mL (daily lotion size)

    Price: $21 CAD

    Features and certifications: Vegan, non-GMO, cruelty free.

    Rocky Mountain Soap Company is local to where I live and they make amazing non toxic and natural personal care products so I had to include them in this roundup.

    Pros:

    • Made in Canada from all natural ingredients.
    • Their lotions come in many different scent options. The vanilla and lemongrass are my personal favourites. During the holidays they offer a limited edition vanilla mint scent which is amazing! I always stock up on it during that time of year.
    • I love how these lotions make your skin feel.
    • They offer a recycling program where you can return your empty containers to the store so they can be re-used.

    Cons:

    • Comes in plastic packaging.
    • Not available in grocery stores or drug stores.
    Shop Rocky Mountain Soap Company

    Carina Organics Body Lotion

    A bottle of Carina Organics body lotion.

    Size: 250 mL

    Price: $13.69 USD

    Features and certifications: Hypoallergenic, cruelty free, paraben free, biodegradable, vegan and gluten free.

    Carina Organics makes many different body lotions and creams including unscented and scented options. I personally love the unscented option.

    Pros:

    • Made with natural and certified organic plant, vegetable, flower, and tree extracts.
    • My local organic grocery store carries this one so I can buy it locally.
    • Nice and light weight.

    Cons:

    • Packaged in plastic.
    • Some reviewers have complained that it leaked when shipped (I have only bought it in store so haven't had this issue).
    Shop for Carina Organics body lotion on Amazon
    Shop on Carina Organics

    Not my favourites:

    As I mentioned in the intro I have tried many non-toxic body lotions over the years and some of the others I have tried but didn't love as much include:

    • Alaffia Body Lotion - This formula can be a little watery and tends to separate when you put it on your skin. I did find that shaking the bottle before pumping helped with this but I found having to do that annoying so this isn't one of my top picks.
    • Weleda Skin Food Lotion - The smell of this one is a little unusual and is not my favourite scent of all the lotions I tried.
    • 100% Pure Body Butter - I just like the Primally Pure body butter so much better and it is also more affordable so this one isn't my top choice. If you do want more scent options however this one comes in many different scents.
    • Earth Mama lotion - I found the scents to be too strong for me and one of my bottles arrived with the cap broken.

    Of course there is no way for me to possibly include all the safe and non toxic lotions out there in this post. As such, I thought it would be helpful to share a list of ingredients or harmful chemicals to watch for and avoid when you are out shopping for lotions. 

    Ingredients to avoid in lotions:

    In case you are out shopping and trying to read labels, here is a handy list of ingredients to watch for when you read ingredient lists. If you see any of these terms I would recommend avoiding the product.

    Fragrance or parfum

    Fragrances are considered to be trade secrets. This means that companies don't have to disclose the ingredients they use to make their fragrances. Hidden within that little unassuming term could be hundreds of chemicals or ingredients, some of which could be harmful to your health. And you don't get to know what any of them are. And unfortunately, the ingredients used to make these fragrances can be harmful to your health.

    The ingredients used to make fragrances can be hormone disruptors, allergens, airway irritants, neurological-toxins and ingredients linked to infertility. That's why I recommend avoiding any product, not just lotions, that uses synthetic fragrances or that won't disclose their fragrance ingredients. Unfortunately, the majority of lotions on the market do contain fragrances so it's important to read labels and the ingredient list carefully. To avoid fragrances, check for the words "fragrance", "scent", "perfume" or "parfum" in the ingredients list.

    Parabens

    Parabens are preservatives and anti-bacterial agents used in many beauty and skincare products, including body lotions, to help increase their shelf life and stability. The parabens used most often in personal care products are methyl, ethyl, butyl and propyl paraben.

    The problem with parabens is that some of them have weak estrogenic and anti-androgenic activity. In other words, they can lead to hormone imbalances and are therefore considered to be endocrine disruptors or hormone disruptors. 

    Hormone imbalances can lead to a number of health problems including thyroid disease, infertility, acne, fatigue, weight gain, etc. And parabens have been linked to breast cancer, skin cancer, decreased sperm counts and infertility (Reference, Reference, Reference, Reference).

    Phthalates

    Phthalates are used to make products flexible and to help fragrances and scents last longer. 

    Certain phthalates are known to be endocrine disruptors and have been shown to have many negative health effects including decreasing sperm counts, contributing to heart disease, contributing to early death, weight gain and diabetes.

    Phthalates can also be included in a products fragrance formula so also be sure to avoid products with the words fragrance, perfume or parfum in the ingredient lists.

    Ethanolamines (DEA, TEA, MEA)

    Europe and Canada prohibit the use of DEA in cosmetics and personal care products due to concerns regarding the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines. However, these chemicals are still allowed to be used in other countries. 

    There is also concern that these chemicals can negatively impact male fertility as in vitro studies have shown they impair sperm motility and viability. Animals studies also shown concering neurological effects. TEA is also an immune and respiratory toxin.

    To avoid ethanolamines, look for DEA, TEA and MEA when reading ingredient lists.

    PEGS

    PEG compounds (PEGS) are formed by condensing water and ethylene oxide. While PEG compounds themselves are usually safe for health, they can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which is a known carcinogen and because they are used as penetration enhancers, depending on what other ingredients are in the product, they can potentially make other toxic ingredients more harmful.

    Triclosan

    Tricolsan is an anti-bacterial agent that is added to personal care products in order to prevent bacterial contamination, and to kill bacteria on the surface of the skin. Triclosan is used so commonly that 75% of Americans have detectable levels in their urine. 

    Animal studies have shown triclosan to be an endocrine disruptor and other studies show that it can alter your microbiome.

    Formaldehyde releasing preservatives

    Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and certain preservatives when used in personal care products can release formaldehyde over time. Some of these preservatives to watch for and avoid include:

    • quaternium ingredients
    • DMDM hydantoin
    • diazolidinyl urea
    • imidazolidinyl urea

    Others:

    • Petroleum-based ingredients:
      • petrolatum
      • polysorbate ingredients
      • propylene glycol
    • Methylchloroisothiazolinone
    • Methylisothiazolinone
    • Retinyl Palmitate - you can read more on why I avoid retinol in this post. 
    • Sodium Laureth Sulfate
    • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

    But don't worry, you don't need to memorize this list of chemicals. I have created a free printable download with a lists of ingredients for you to watch for and avoid in cosmetic products and personal care products.

    Frequently asked questions:

    What is the difference between body cream and body lotion?

    While both are moisturizers, generally lotions are lighter in texture and formulated with more water compared to creams which are usually thicker and more hydrating.

    How should you apply body lotion?

    You can apply body lotion anytime, but it works especially well if you apply it after bathing to help lock in moisture.

    Is Bath and Body Works lotion non toxic?

    No it is not. Bath and Body Works products contain artificial fragrances as well as other unsafe ingredients which I would recommend avoiding.

    I hope you found this post helpful. If you have any questions please let me know. 

    Other health information you will like:

    • The Best Non Toxic Dental Products
    • The best non toxic period underwear
    • The best non-toxic deodorants
    • Best non-toxic dry shampoos
    • The best non toxic laundry detergents
    • Is there mercury in your mascara?
    • Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better?
    • How to choose safe cookware
    • Are candles toxic?
    • The best non toxic toothpastes
    • The best non toxic face masks

    Since you made it this far we are basically best friends so be sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok and Facebook where I share even more recipes and healthy living tips! 

    Our expertise:

    Dr. Erin Carter, MD, FRCPC, is a physician with board certifications in internal medicine and rheumatology. She is passionate about nutrition, environmental health and low toxicity living and has been doing research and publishing information in this area for years. She is also a self-trained chef and has been creating and publishing recipes since 2015. Her recipes have been featured on many different websites and online publications.

    DISCLAIMERS: The statements made on this website have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. You assume full responsibility for how you use this information. Always consult with your physician or other health professionals before making any diet or lifestyle changes. This post may contain affiliate links whereby if you purchase these products I receive a small percentage of the sale price. This allows me to keep the blog running and I thank you for allowing me to do that!

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Leann

      January 08, 2023 at 2:08 pm

      Rocky Mountain (Soup) typo

      Reply
      • Erin Carter

        January 09, 2023 at 8:44 am

        Oh thanks so much for noticing! I just fixed it 🙂

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    A photo of Dr. Erin Carter wearing a floral dress in her kitchen.

    Hi everyone!

    My name is Dr. Erin Carter and I am so thrilled you are here. I am a physician with specialties in both internal medicine and rheumatology, and I believe that food and healthy living are forms of medicine. In my spare time I share health information and delicious, healthy recipes here on Pure and Simple Nourishment.

    More about me

    Summer Recipes

    • A bottle of dill pickle salad dressing with cut up pickles beside it.
      Dill Pickle Salad Dressing with Pickle Juice (so easy!)
    • A lemon lavender cookie on a baking sheet with a bite out of it and surrounded by lemon slices.
      Lemon Lavender Cookies (gluten-free option)
    • Two ginger turmeric shots in glass bottles with white lids surrounded by ginger, turmeric, orange slices and lemon slices.
      Easy Lemon Ginger Turmeric Shots Recipe & Benefits (no juicer)
    • A jar of raspberry chia pudding topped with fresh raspberries and white chia seeds.
      5 Ingredient Raspberry Chia Pudding
    • A jar of chocolate orange overnight oats garnished with orange zest.
      The Best Chocolate Orange Overnight Oats
    • A bowl of coconut whipped cream.
      Easy Coconut Whipped Cream (vegan, dairy-free)

    Health Info

    • A collage of different air fryers with the title "Non-Toxic Air Fryers" over them.
      6 Non-Toxic Air Fryers - without Teflon or PFAS (2025 Update)
    • A collage of many different sunscreen bottles with the title The Best Safe Sunscreens Over them.
      10 Non-Toxic Sunscreens (tried and tested)
    • Two girls laying on the beach with their legs in the air and the title "how to choose a safe sunscreen" over them.
      How to Choose Non-Toxic Sunscreen & the Best Brands
    • A collage of toothpastes, flosses, and bamboo toothbrushes with the title "the best natural dental care products" above them.
      Non-Toxic Dental Care Products

    Popular Recipes

    • A paleo apple pie bar with a bite out of it and pieces of cooked apples beside it.
      Healthy Apple Pie Bars (gluten-free, vegan & paleo)
    • A gluten free burger in a bun with lettuce, tomato and ketchup.
      The Best Gluten-Free Burgers Recipe (so juicy!)
    • A loaf of gluten free chocolate chip banana bread cut into pieces.
      The Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Banana Bread (dairy free & paleo)
    • A paleo chocolate chip zucchini muffin with a bite out of it.
      Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins (dairy-free & paleo)
    • A bowl of Whole30 asian coleslaw with dressing being poured on it.
      The Best Healthy Asian Coleslaw Salad
    • A jar of berry cheesecake overnight oats topped with fresh berries with a spoon in it.
      The Best Berry Cheesecake Overnight Oats

    Footer

    featured on:

    Sign up for emails and updates!

    Sign me up!
    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Policy
    • Contact
    • Services
    • ↑ back to top

    Some of the links on this website are affiliate links whereby we make a small percentage if you purchase the product through that link. It does not cost you anything extra and helps us keep this website running. As an Amazon associate we earn a small percentage from qualifying Amazon purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Pure & Simple Nourishment - Powered by Feast+

    420 shares
    420 shares