Best 5 Moisturizers Without Gluten

For those diagnosed with celiac disease or choosing a gluten-free lifestyle, finding suitable food, drinks, and even personal care products can be challenging. Grain derivatives such as oat kernel flour (avena sativa), wheat flours, wheat germ oils, rye, malt, and other gluten proteins are pervasive and hard to avoid.

A growing number of individuals are embracing a gluten-free lifestyle for various reasons. Some seek holistic treatments for conditions like joint pain, while others believe gluten is unnecessary for a healthy diet. Additionally, those diagnosed with celiac disease—an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming wheat, oats, and similar grains—are driving this trend. Recent medical findings suggest that celiac disease affects a broader population than previously estimated, with up to 3 million Americans potentially suffering from it [source: University of Chicago]. Consequently, more companies are producing gluten-free products, including ice cream (and cones), bread, and even beer, which are now widely available in markets.

The same applies to skincare products. Numerous companies, both large and small, whether natural or not, have introduced gluten-free options, including high-quality moisturizers. Some highlight their gluten-free ingredient lists, while others simply exclude gluten-containing components. Regardless, individuals with celiac disease who suffer from dry or cracked skin can now apply these products without concern. Below, we present our top five gluten-free moisturizers, listed in no specific order.

5. Keys Luminos Hydrating Moisturizer

Keys, a company established by a skin cancer survivor, takes extensive measures to eliminate harmful chemicals from its products. It has compiled a list of over 1,100 chemicals that are prohibited from being used in its skincare and body care range [source: Keys Soaps].

The company recognizes that gluten can be as harmful as many chemicals for certain individuals. Consequently, Keys offers a range of gluten-free products. Among these, the Luminos Hydrating Moisturizer stands out as a favorite. This product is enriched with avocado and Aloe Vera to nourish the skin and contains only 10 additional ingredients, all of which are straightforward and easy to identify.

Even more convenient, there's no need to scrutinize the ingredients list for gluten. The Luminos moisturizer clearly states "gluten-free" on its front label.

4. Burt's Bees Radiance Day Creme

Burt's Bees has earned a reputable standing in the eco-friendly market by pioneering a comprehensive range of skin and body care products free from synthetic components. Many of their offerings are built around beeswax as a foundational ingredient. For their Radiance Day Crème, the brand delved deeper into the hive, incorporating royal jelly into the formula.

Royal jelly is a blend of flower parts, nectar, and pollen, produced by bees to nourish future queen bees. Burt's Bees harnesses this nutrient-rich substance for skincare benefits. Packed with over 100 nutrients, it can significantly enhance the appearance of your skin.

The Radiance Day Crème is also gluten-free, though it doesn’t prominently advertise this feature. While safe for those with celiac disease, individuals allergic to pollen should steer clear, as the product contains a high concentration of it.

3. MAC Strobe Liquid Moisturizer

Major companies are increasingly recognizing the needs of individuals with celiac disease and those embracing gluten-free lifestyles. MAC, the renowned New York-based cosmetics brand, has launched a moisturizer that caters to this demand.

MAC's Strobe Liquid Moisturizer is gluten-free, though it includes corn and soy derivatives. It features diffusers and pigments that enhance the skin’s natural color, radiance, and tone. The product is designed for quick absorption, though some users find it to be heavy. It’s advisable to test it on less sensitive areas of the face initially [source: Gluten-Free Hub].

While the bottle doesn’t explicitly highlight its gluten-free status, MAC’s commitment to cruelty-free ingredients provides reassurance [source: PETA2].

2. Gluten-Free Savonnerie Moisturizing Lotion

Who better to trust for gluten-free products than a family living a gluten-free lifestyle? After Christine Muir was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2001, she and her husband Mark established the Gluten-Free Savonnerie in Wildrose, N.D.

Since its inception, the company has developed a range of body and skincare products, including their Moisturizing Lotion. Made with just eight ingredients, such as jojoba seed and avocado oils, this lotion is lightweight yet deeply hydrating for dry skin. The brand claims the product is 97.1% natural [source: GFSoap].

It’s also remarkably affordable. An 8-ounce bottle is available online for $8.99 [source: Vegan Essentials].

1. Dakota Free Baby Balm

Rounding off our selection of gluten-free moisturizers is a product from a North Dakota-based family business. Dakota Free, established and managed by the Gillund family, brings a personal touch to their skincare line.

Frustrated by the lack of natural body care options free from harmful pesticides, which adversely affected their family's health, the Gillunds took matters into their own hands. They developed a range of skin care products, featuring their gluten-free Baby Balm moisturizer.

Dakota Free's Baby Balm contains just six simple ingredients, or five if you choose the variant without lavender oil. This product is crafted without animal-tested components (though it includes beeswax, making it vegetarian-friendly but not vegan), is certified organic, and is also free from peanuts.

With a richer consistency than typical moisturizers, this balm excels at healing and softening skin. It’s no wonder—North Dakotans, familiar with harsh climates, truly understand the needs of chapped skin.