Best Cruelty-Free Moisturizer for Combination Skin: Top Picks for 2024

Combination skin can be a challenge to care for, as it consists of both oily and dry areas on the face. Finding the perfect moisturizer to combat this issue is no easy task.

With the rise of cruelty-free and vegan beauty products, there are now options on the market that not only cater to combination skin, but also align with ethical and sustainable principles.


Cruelty-free moisturizers are developed without animal testing and often contain natural, plant-based ingredients. They offer a perfect balance of hydration and oil control for individuals with combination skin. The key to finding the best product lies in understanding your skin’s unique needs and focusing on the ingredients, texture, and effectiveness of the moisturizer.

When searching for the ideal cruelty-free moisturizer for combination skin, pay close attention to the ingredients listed on the label. Look for those that are oil-free or non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores.

Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and niacinamide are a few ingredients that provide hydration without being too heavy or greasy. Additionally, consider other factors like packaging, fragrance, and the company’s commitment to cruelty-free practices.

Best Cruelty-Free Moisturizers for Combination Skin

We’ve researched and compiled a list of the top cruelty-free moisturizers specifically designed for combination skin. Explore our selections to find the perfect product for your skincare needs.

Fresh Rituals Vegan Face Moisturizer

Fresh Rituals Vegan Face Moisturizer

This cruelty-free moisturizer offers hydration for combination skin, making it a great choice for users seeking a versatile product.

Pros

  • Intensely hydrates and nourishes combination skin
  • Fast-absorbing and lightweight, suitable for various skin types
  • Packed with skin-friendly ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Squalene, and Niacinamide

Cons

  • Rose fragrance might not appeal to everyone
  • Formula may not be suitable for extremely dry or oily skin
  • Might leave a slight film on the skin for some users

Fresh Rituals Vegan Face Moisturizer is an ideal product for its target audience – those with combination skin. The hydrating cream is formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Squalene, and Niacinamide, offering intense hydration and nourishment for your skin.

The lightweight, water-based product ensures that it won’t clog your pores or irritate sensitive skin.

One aspect that we appreciate is its fast-absorbing nature, making it compatible with different skin types. The organic face cream delivers a lovely rose fragrance and is packed with humectants that help lock in moisture and smooth dull skin. However, the scent might not suit everyone’s preferences.

Overall, while the moisturizer does an excellent job of hydrating and nourishing combination skin types, it may not be suitable for those with extremely dry or oily skin.

Additionally, some users have noticed a film on their skin after use, which might not be to everyone’s liking.

Nonetheless, if you’re seeking a cruelty-free, versatile moisturizer for combination skin, the Fresh Rituals Vegan Face Moisturizer is worth considering.

REN Clean Skincare Clarimatte™ T-Zone Balancing Gel Cream

Ren Clean Skincare - Clarimatte T-Zone Balancing Gel Cream

This mattifying face moisturizer is ideal for those with combination skin seeking a cruelty-free and vegan option with balanced hydration.

Pros

  • Effectively mattifies oily T-zone
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Soothing lavender scent

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin
  • Possible outdated packaging
  • Higher price point

When we tried the REN Clean Skincare Clarimatte™ T-Zone Balancing Gel Cream, we were impressed with how effective it was at mattifying our oily T-zone while providing moisture to the other parts of our face. The cream has a pleasing lavender scent, which adds a calming element when applying the product.

However, this cream may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin due to the presence of active ingredients like willow bark.

Additionally, some users have reported receiving the product with dated packaging, which may be concerning for those looking for a freshly manufactured product. Despite the few issues, we appreciate that REN Clean Skincare proudly produces cruelty-free and vegan skincare products.

Although the price point is higher than some other moisturizers on the market, we believe the benefits of this product make it a worthwhile investment for those with combination skin seeking a more balanced complexion.

The cream’s effectiveness, ethical production, and soothing scent make it a top contender among cruelty-free moisturizers for combination skin.

HERITAGE STORE Rosewater Facial Moisturizer

HERITAGE STORE Rosewater Facial Moisturizer

We recommend this moisturizer as an ideal option for those seeking a cruelty-free, vegan product with visible results.

Pros

  • Perfect for dry to combination skin
  • Balances skin tone and texture
  • Environmentally friendly packaging

Cons

  • Scent may not be for everyone
  • Price may be high for some
  • Ingredient list discrepancy

This moisturizer from HERITAGE STORE boasts a lightweight gel cream formula that not only hydrates the skin but also soothes and refreshes it. We found it perfect for our dry to combination skin, providing it with ample moisture all day long.

Thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid, sodium PCA, and the brand’s signature Rose Complex, it helped our skin feel smoother and maintain a natural glow.

Upon application, we noticed the product’s ability to balance skin tone, as well as even out texture. This was due to the presence of olive oil squalene and niacinamide in the moisturizer. With regular use, we saw improvement in the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, be mindful that the rose scent might not suit everyone’s preference.

Regarding packaging, HERITAGE STORE ensures that it remains eco-friendly, using post-consumer resin (PCR) recycled plastic bottles and maintaining a cruelty-free product. It is important to note that although the price might seem high for some, the quality and effectiveness make it worth the investment.

Additionally, we noticed a discrepancy between the ingredient list available on Amazon and the actual product, so be sure to double-check if you’re concerned about any specific ingredients.

Overall, the HERITAGE STORE Rosewater Facial Moisturizer is a fantastic addition to any skincare routine, especially if you’re looking for a cruelty-free, vegan option that delivers visible results with regular use.

J&L Naturals Sustainable Face Salve Moisturizer

J&L Naturals Sustainable Face Salve Moisturizer

We highly recommend this moisturizer for those seeking a cruelty-free, eco-friendly option for combination skin.

Pros

  • All-natural ingredients and suitable for various skin types
  • Deeply hydrating and nourishing formula
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly packaging

Cons

  • Slightly greasy upon application
  • Strong scent that some may find overwhelming
  • Hard balm-like texture that might be difficult to apply

We recently tried the J&L Naturals Sustainable Face Salve Moisturizer and were impressed by its all-natural, vegan ingredients that provided deep hydration and nourishment to our combination skin.

This cruelty-free and eco-friendly product is designed to keep oiliness at bay, and even though it feels slightly greasy upon application, it absorbs nicely into the skin.

One thing worth noting is the strong scent of this moisturizer, which may be a deal-breaker for some. However, we found the fragrance to dissipate over time and not be too overpowering once absorbed into the skin.

The texture of the product is more like a hard balm, which may be difficult for some to apply evenly. We found that allowing it to soften slightly between our fingers before applying made it easier to work into the skin, but it might take some getting used to for those accustomed to traditional cream moisturizers.

Overall, the J&L Naturals Sustainable Face Salve Moisturizer is a promising option for those seeking a cruelty-free, eco-friendly product for combination skin.

With deeply hydrating natural oils and a gentle formula, this moisturizer is worth considering despite its potential drawbacks.

BOSCIA Tsubaki Swirl – Natural Camellia Oil Cream & Gel Face Moisturizer

BOSCIA Tsubaki Swirl

We recommend the BOSCIA Tsubaki Swirl for those seeking a cruelty-free moisturizer that effectively nourishes and hydrates combination skin.

Pros

  • Lightweight, gel-cream hybrid texture
  • Absorbs quickly for a non-greasy feel
  • Antioxidant-rich formula with anti-aging properties

Cons

  • May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin
  • Not ideal for oily skin types
  • Scooping out product with a spatula may be inconvenient

Our experience with the BOSCIA Tsubaki Swirl has been delightful. The unique swirled gel and cream moisturizer duo made our skin feel instantly hydrated and nourished. This vegan and cruelty-free formula is perfect for combination skin, providing a velvety finish without any greasy residue.

With powerful ingredients like Tsubaki (Camellia) Oil, Rice Bran Oil, and Jojoba Seed Oil, the antioxidant-rich moisturizer is packed with benefits for the complexion.

The luxurious texture of this two-part moisturizer impressed us in regards to application and absorption. It also worked well when applied before makeup, which is a huge plus for those who want a balance of skincare and cosmetics.

However, some users may find the provided spatula somewhat inconvenient for scooping out the product. Additionally, those with very dry or oily skin might not find the BOSCIA Tsubaki Swirl to be the best fit.

Nevertheless, its pros outweigh the cons for those with combination skin seeking a cruelty-free and natural moisturizer option.

In conclusion, the BOSCIA Tsubaki Swirl is a versatile, high-quality moisturizer ideal for individuals with combination and dry skin types. Its unique texture, nourishing ingredients, and vegan formula make it a standout choice in the realm of cruelty-free skincare.

Buying Guide

As we search for the best cruelty-free moisturizer for combination skin, there are several factors we should consider to ensure that we find a product that meets our needs and preferences.

In this buying guide, we’ll outline some of the key features to look for in a moisturizer designed for combination skin, while also adhering to cruelty-free standards.

Ingredients

When choosing a moisturizer, it is essential to examine the ingredients list. For combination skin, we want to find products that can provide hydration without causing excessive oil production or clogged pores.

Opt for ingredients that are lightweight and non-comedogenic, like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, which can help balance both dry and oily areas of the skin. Additionally, avoid potential irritants like synthetic fragrances and excessive alcohol content.

Cruelty-Free Certification

To ensure that the moisturizer we choose is cruelty-free, look for certification from reputable organizations like Leaping Bunny or PETA. These certifications provide a guarantee that no animal testing was involved in the production of the product.

Keep in mind that some products may claim to be cruelty-free without such certification, so it’s always important to double-check for credibility.

Skin Type Compatibility

Finding a moisturizer designed specifically for combination skin is crucial. Products formulated for other skin types might not address the unique needs of combination skin, potentially leading to further issues with dryness or oiliness.

We should look for descriptions or labels on the product packaging that indicate it is suitable for combination skin.

Texture and Absorption

Understanding the texture and absorption of a moisturizer is important for combination skin. Ideally, a product should have a lightweight texture that can be easily absorbed, leaving the skin feeling soft and hydrated without any heavy or greasy residue. We may want to avoid overly thick or rich formulas, as these can contribute to the oily areas of our skin feeling congested.

Price and Availability

Lastly, consider the price and availability of the moisturizers we’re interested in. While it’s essential to invest in high-quality products, there are also effective and affordable options available. We should set a budget and search for moisturizers that fit our financial constraints.

It’s also necessary to ensure the product is readily available so we can maintain a consistent skincare routine.