The best baby face creams and moisturisers: Mum-tested and baby-approved

Nala’s Adventure Bundle snagged Gold for Best Baby Skincare Range/Product at the Mother & Baby Awards in both 2023 and 2024 — and for good reason. This skincare line is thoughtfully formulated with 99% naturally derived ingredients like soothing oats, nourishing coconut, calming aloe, and gentle lavender, all perfect for sensitive baby skin. The bundle includes a full set of essentials: Body Wash & Shampoo, Bubble Bath, Hair Conditioner, Body Oil, Body Lotion, and Body Butter, all neatly packed into a 100% cotton drawstring bag, making it super convenient to keep everything together.

Parents who’ve tested the bundle rave about how gentle and effective the products are, and many have noted how beautiful the packaging is — making it a great gift idea for new parents. One mum shared, “I wouldn’t change a thing about these products. Everything feels perfect, and I’m really impressed with how well they work. I think more people should know about Nala’s Adventure Bundle so more babies can benefit from it.”

If you’re looking for a natural, complete skincare set that’s easy to use and feels luxurious but safe for your little one, this bundle definitely deserves a spot on your baby care shelf.

Read our full Nala’s Baby Adventure Bundle review.

The Childs Farm Toiletries Range for Baby and Child earned Silver for Best Baby Skincare Range/Product and Gold for Best Product for Newborns (0-4 months) at the Mother & Baby Awards in 2023 and 2024. Known for its mild fragrance and deeply moisturising formula, this range is packed with ingredients that soothe and hydrate all skin types, including the most sensitive and eczema-prone skin. The products are paediatrician-approved and designed to be safe from head to toe, which gives parents peace of mind.

Real parents loved how gentle and effective these products were, praising their ability to soothe dry and irritated skin. One parent said, “Childs Farm’s moisturising cream is a lifesaver when your little one has dry or eczema-prone skin. The gentle fragrance is calming, the texture is light, and it absorbs quickly without any greasy feeling. It’s widely available in supermarkets, which makes life easier when you have a million things to juggle!”

If you want a reliable, gentle, and widely accessible skincare range for your baby, Childs Farm is a fantastic choice.

Read our full Childs Farm Toiletries Range for Baby & Child review.

Kokoso Baby Coconut Oil earned Bronze for Best Baby Skincare Range/Product at the Mother & Baby Awards 2024. Made from organic, premium-grade coconuts, this hypoallergenic and fragrance-free oil is a gentle, natural way to nourish and protect delicate baby skin. Its lightweight formula absorbs easily, making it ideal for soothing dryness, eczema, and cradle cap, while leaving skin soft and smooth.

Parents loved how versatile this oil is. One mum shared, “Wow, loved this product. The smell is just gorgeous, and I loved that it’s purely coconut oil. A little goes a long way, so it’s great value. It didn’t feel greasy, which I was worried about. It cleared my newborn’s dry skin almost immediately and worked wonders as a massage oil to soothe colic. This product really does it all!”

If you want a simple, natural oil with multiple uses for the whole family, Kokoso is a solid pick. Just beware, when you go to hot places, it can get messy as the oil doesn’t congeal like it does in the UK or colder climates.

Read our full Kokoso Baby Coconut Oil review.

Colief Baby Scalp Oil won Silver for Best Baby Skincare Range/Product in Mother&Baby Awards 2023. This gentle formula combines rosehip oil, chamomile, and vitamin E to soothe and moisturise baby’s delicate scalp, helping to prevent dryness and cradle cap. Parents found it easy to apply and effective at softening dry skin.

One parent shared, “The small bottle is perfect for the changing bag, and the rosehip scent is lovely. It made my baby’s scalp soft and smooth after gentle massage. It does exactly what it promises.”

If you’re dealing with dry scalp or cradle cap, this product is an easy and effective solution.

Read our full Colief Baby Scalp Oil review.

Awarded Silver for Best Baby Skincare Range/Product at the 2022 Mother & Baby Awards, this lotion harnesses the soothing power of natural colloidal oatmeal combined with rich emollients to gently hydrate dry, sensitive baby skin without any sticky or heavy residue. It’s fragrance-free, making it ideal for babies prone to irritation or sensitivities.

Parents noticed fast and visible improvements. One shared, "I bought this for my one-year-old’s dry skin, and within days, his skin was noticeably softer and more hydrated. It’s easy to apply, absorbs quickly, and lasts throughout the day. The bottle size is perfect, and it has a pleasant, subtle scent. Highly recommend!"

Many users find this lotion equally effective for adults with dry or sensitive skin, with some noting it even helps clear mild eczema. Praised for its gentle formula, delightful scent, and excellent value, this lotion is a reliable staple for daily moisturising without any greasy feel.

If you want a no-fuss, calming daily lotion that’s safe for delicate skin and fragrance-free, Aveeno Baby Daily Care is a dependable and effective choice.

Read our full Aveeno Baby Daily Care Range review.

Nala’s Sleep Baby Lotion is made with a soothing blend of passionflower, lemon balm, and lavender, crafted to nourish delicate skin while helping to create a calm bedtime atmosphere. With 99% naturally derived ingredients and an allergen-free fragrance, it’s perfect for newborns and beyond.

Parents loved the calming scent and the bedtime ritual it helped create. Senior Digital Writer, Anne Lora Scagliusi shared, "I love Nala’s Baby, but I am obsessed with the Nala’s Sleep Baby Lotion. This lotion quickly became my favourite as soon as I discovered it. I used it when my son turned one and he still loves it now that he’s two. We’ve gone through a couple of bottles, it glides on and absorbs into the skin beautifully. The lavender scent is perfect for winding down. My son’s bedtime routine became so much calmer, and his skin was left soft and hydrated. The scent is divine, and we both enjoy the ritual it created."

She adds, "I also love that Nala’s Baby is all vegan and natural. I trust that what I put on my son’s skin is good for his skin. That peace of mind means everything to me."

If you’re looking for a lotion that combines gentle skincare with bedtime relaxation, Nala’s Sleep Baby Lotion is a truly thoughtful choice.

Green People Organic Babies Softening Baby Lotion is a fragrance-free, ultra-gentle lotion made especially for delicate and sensitive baby skin. Enriched with organic aloe vera and soothing calendula, it provides natural hydration while calming irritation, making it a smart choice for babies prone to eczema, dryness, or allergic flare-ups. Dermatologist-approved and certified organic, it contains no harsh chemicals, parabens, or synthetic fragrances.

Parents appreciated how lightweight and effective it was. One mum shared, “This lotion is my must-have for the nappy bag. I always keep it within arm’s reach so my little one’s skin stays hydrated when we’re out and about. It’s truly been a lifesaver, especially when his eczema flares up in chilly weather. The formula is so lightweight and gentle, it absorbs right away and keeps his skin soft, smooth, and irritation-free.”

If you're looking for a pure, certified-organic lotion that’s especially kind to sensitive baby skin, this one is absolutely worth trying.

A favourite of Dani Dyer, and many parents, Johnson’s Bedtime Lotion is part of the much-loved Bedtime range, formulated to help ease little ones into a peaceful sleep. Infused with the brand’s signature NaturalCalm™ essence, this lotion provides a gentle, relaxing scent designed to soothe babies before bed. The hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested formula is mild enough for daily use and keeps your baby’s skin soft, smooth, and comforted.

Parents swear by it for nightly routines. One mum shared, "I use it every night after bath time. The calming scent signals bedtime for my son, and his skin feels soft. The hypoallergenic formula is a huge bonus.”

If you’re after a classic, affordable bedtime lotion that delivers both comfort and care, Johnson’s is a tried-and-tested pick.

Kit & Kin is known for its commitment to gentle, eco-conscious baby care, and their Body Lotion lives up to that reputation. This lotion is made with 100% natural ingredients and is dermatologist-approved, designed specifically to hydrate and protect delicate baby skin without any unnecessary additives.

From my own experience as a mum, I’ve realised that baby lotions need to be lightweight and easy to apply especially when you’re dealing with a wriggly toddler who just wants to get on with the day. Kit & Kin’s Body Lotion ticks these boxes beautifully: it glides on effortlessly, absorbs quickly, and leaves no greasy or sticky residue behind, which means your little one’s skin feels soft, comfortable, and well-nourished. Importantly, it’s fragrance-free, so there are no overwhelming smells that might irritate sensitive skin or upset sensitive noses.

What sets this lotion apart is its thoughtful formulation, free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and artificial fragrances, which makes it safe for everyday use, even on babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. The convenient pump dispenser also makes application quick and fuss-free, which is a blessing during busy nappy changes or bedtime routines.

After testing more than 30 baby skincare products, I can confidently say this one has become a reliable staple in our daily skincare routine. It’s great for keeping skin hydrated through dry weather or seasonal changes, and it provides gentle, lasting moisture without causing irritation.

If you’re after a simple, trustworthy lotion that combines natural ingredients with effective hydration and that’s easy for busy parents to use, Kit & Kin’s Body Lotion is definitely worth trying.

Read our Kit & Kin Baby Bundle review

When it comes to a facial cream that’s light but still does the job, Mustela Hydra Bébé Facial Cream has been a great go-to for us. It’s perfect for daily use, especially in warmer months when you don’t want anything too heavy on those delicate cheeks. The texture feels silky and absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film, which is a big win for toddlers who hate sitting still for too long.

I keep a little tube in my bag for quick touch-ups, especially on days out when the wind or sun dries out his skin. It’s gentle enough for sensitive faces but effective enough to keep his skin soft and hydrated. It might be a bit pricier, but honestly, a little goes a long way, and knowing it’s dermatologist-tested gives me peace of mind. For any mum wanting a reliable, fuss-free facial cream that works, Mustela Hydra Bébé is a lovely option. It's worth noting that The Mustela Hydra Bébé Facial Cream is perfect for the lighter months compared to the thicker Mustela Nourishing Cream With Cold Cream.

If you’re after a trusted, dermatologist-tested daily cream that keeps your baby’s skin soft, healthy, and hydrated, Mustela is a dependable choice.

If you're looking for a barrier cream free from harsh chemicals and synthetic additives, Neal's Yard Remedies Baby Barrier Cream is an excellent choice. It’s specially formulated with a blend of organic, gentle ingredients designed to soothe and protect delicate newborn skin. Key ingredients like organic chamomile help calm irritation thanks to their natural anti-inflammatory properties, while nourishing beeswax and sunflower oil create a breathable barrier that protects without suffocating the skin. Glycerin, a plant-based moisturiser, locks in hydration to keep skin soft and supple, and the non-nano zinc oxide works as a safe, effective shield against moisture, the main culprit behind nappy rash.

This cream is hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, making it suitable for newborns weighing 3 kilograms (about 6 pounds 10 ounces) and over. It’s also cruelty-free, aligning with ethical skincare values many parents appreciate. Despite its gentle nature, it’s effective enough to be used multiple times, around 100 applications from a single 50g jar, so a little really does go a long way.

Parents rave about how well it works and how soft it leaves their babies' skin. One mum said she absolutely loves the cream, noting that it cleared up nappy rash quickly and that she even uses it on her elbows, knees, and heels because of its nourishing qualities. Another parent mentioned replacing harsher creams with this one because it’s free from nasties and kinder on sensitive skin. Many agree that their babies enjoy the soothing sensation during application, which is always a bonus!

While it is a bit of a luxury compared to standard supermarket creams, most find it worth the investment for the peace of mind that comes with using organic, safe ingredients on such sensitive skin. Overall, Neal's Yard Remedies Baby Barrier Cream offers a thoughtful blend of nature and science to protect and nurture your baby’s skin, making it a trusted staple for parents seeking the best for their little ones.

If your little one struggles with eczema or really dry skin, Oilatum Junior Cream could be a real lifesaver. When my son had flare-ups as a newborn, I felt totally overwhelmed until a health visitor recommended Oilatum. It’s thick and soothing without feeling greasy, and I love that it’s fragrance-free (when he was a newborn, I preferred no scent at all) so it doesn’t irritate sensitive skin further.

This cream locks in moisture for hours, which made a huge difference on colder days when his skin would get red and flaky. I always use it after their Oilatum Gentle Head to Toe Wash, and together they’ve helped keep his skin calm and comfortable. If you need something reliable that actually helps soothe eczema-prone skin, this is a top pick from a mum who’s been there.

Mustela Nourishing Cream with Cold Cream is specially formulated to shield your baby’s skin from cold, wind, and dry air. Rich in natural ingredients like beeswax and shea butter, it creates a protective barrier while deeply hydrating to keep skin soft and soothed. Ideal for sensitive skin and tested by dermatologists, it's gentle enough for everyday use from birth.

Parents say it’s a winter essential. It’s thicker than some creams, which means it takes a little longer to absorb, but that’s a small price to pay for how well it protects and soothes my son’s irritated cheeks.

We took a trip to Poland last autumn where the weather was freezing, and this cream calmed his red, windburned skin almost instantly. It’s rich but never greasy, making it perfect for winter or any harsh conditions. If your baby’s skin needs a shield during the colder months, this cream is a reliable, parent-trusted option.

Totally Immense Dribble Defence by My Expert Midwife is specially designed to protect your baby’s skin from the constant dampness caused by drooling, teething, and food spills. With a lanolin-rich base, it forms a strong barrier against moisture, while castor and grapeseed oils gently soothe and nourish sensitive skin. Ideal for use at the first sign of teething, it helps prevent chafing and irritation before it starts.

Midwife Lesley Gilchrist recommends applying it as soon as teething begins to proactively protect delicate skin from the effects of excess saliva.

Parents call it a teething essential. Drooling and teething are such messy, frustrating stages, and the constant dampness can leave your baby’s chin sore and red. That’s why I’m so grateful for My Expert Midwife’s Totally Immense Dribble Defence. It’s a thick, protective cream that really helps guard delicate skin against saliva irritation and chafing.

I wish I’d discovered this sooner! When my son started teething, he was drooling nonstop, and his skin was constantly irritated. This cream not only forms a protective barrier but also soothes redness fast, making those tough teething days a bit easier for both of us. If you want to stay ahead of teething irritation, this cream is a must-have in your changing bag.

Mustela’s Hydra Bébé Body Lotion offers lightweight yet long-lasting hydration with organic avocado to nourish and strengthen the skin barrier. Its smooth texture and subtle fragrance make it a parent favourite. Plus, it comes in eco-friendly, recyclable packaging to reduce plastic waste.

Parents love its effective moisture and eco credentials. One said, “This lotion keeps my baby’s skin soft and healthy. The recyclable bottle is a bonus for us trying to be more sustainable.” Another happy mum said, “I fell in love with this product after using a 50ml travel size product on my baby's skin. It smells heavenly, never encountered a more beautiful baby product. It's good value as well in my opinion.” 

If you want an effective, eco-conscious lotion, Mustela fits the bill.

Vaseline Baby Gel is a gentle, hypoallergenic gel made with triple-purified petroleum jelly to protect and soothe your baby’s delicate skin. Its non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores, allowing the skin to breathe while forming a reliable barrier against dryness, chafing, and irritation. Whether used for diaper changes, dry patches, or general skincare, this versatile gel is a go-to for families.

It’s especially useful for newborns and toddlers with sensitive skin, and it’s recommended by dermatologists as a simple, effective solution.

Parents trust it as an everyday essential. One mum shared, “I can’t imagine life without Vaseline Baby Gel. It’s always in my son’s skincare stash and really helps with diaper changes and dry patches. Dermatologists recommend it, and I see why, it’s safe and effective for his sensitive skin. I even use it on my own dry spots!”

If you're after a simple, dermatologist-approved barrier gel that works for the whole family, Vaseline Baby Gel is a tried-and-true favourite.

If your baby has dry, rough patches or irritated skin, My Expert Midwife Super Charged Skin Salve is here to help. This thick, creamy salve is packed with natural ingredients like lanolin, calendula, and gentle oils that work together to soothe and protect delicate baby skin.

Lanolin acts like a cosy shield, locking in moisture so your baby’s skin doesn’t dry out even in tricky spots. Calendula is a calming plant extract that helps reduce redness and irritation, while the oils soften and repair the skin, helping it heal faster. The texture is rich but not sticky or greasy, so it spreads easily and stays put on areas like chins, cheeks, or behind the knees.

Midwife Lesley Gilchrist recommends using it as soon as you notice any dryness or irritation to keep things from getting worse. It’s safe for everyday use and great for tackling everything from teething dribble rash to nappy rash or just stubborn dry spots.

Parents love how well it works and how gentle it feels. One mum said, "This stuff is amazing. It cleared up the dry patches on my baby’s legs so quickly. It’s easy to put on and doesn’t leave her skin feeling greasy at all."

If your baby needs something reliable to calm and fix dry or irritated skin, this salve is definitely worth trying.

The Weleda Baby Calendula Facial Cream was shortlisted for Best Baby Skincare Product at the 2019 Mother & Baby Awards, and it’s easy to see why. Weleda Baby Calendula Facial Cream is a gentle, natural option that really works. Packed with soothing calendula extract, it forms a soft protective layer that helps guard against dryness and irritations, perfect for common baby skin issues like spots, redness, or cradle cap.

Lanolin and organic almond oil team up to provide deep, lasting moisture without feeling heavy or sticky. The cream’s texture is a bit thick but spreads nicely and leaves baby’s skin feeling soft and nourished, not greasy. It’s especially great during colder months or when skin is feeling extra sensitive.

Parents love that it uses 100% natural ingredients, giving peace of mind about what’s going on their little one’s skin. One parent shared, Highly recommended! It made my baby’s face soft and lovely. I’m already a fan of the nappy cream from the same line, so I knew this would be just as good.”

If you’re after a nurturing, natural face cream to protect and soothe your baby’s delicate skin, Weleda Baby Calendula Facial Cream is a fantastic pick.

Read our full Weleda Baby Face Cream review.

Read our full Weleda Baby Calendula Collection review.

The Burt's Bees Baby Bee range won Bronze for Best Baby Skincare Range/Product at the 2018 Mother&Baby Awards and it’s well deserved. If you’re after a natural lotion that’s gentle enough for your baby’s sensitive skin but pleasant enough for the whole family, Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Original Nourishing Lotion is a winner. Packed with aloe vera to soothe, buttermilk to soften, and vitamin E to protect, this lotion delivers light, calming moisture without any harsh chemicals or overpowering fragrance.

The formula glides on smoothly and absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft without any sticky or greasy residue. Parents appreciate how gentle it is, even on sensitive or allergy-prone skin. One mum shared, "I use this lotion for myself and my children. It’s gentle on all our sensitive skin, smells lovely but mild, and absorbs easily."

This lotion is part of the Baby Bee range, which also includes a bubble bath and nourishing oil for all-round baby skincare.

If you want a trusted, natural lotion that’s gentle and pleasant for both babies and adults, Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Original Nourishing Lotion is a great choice.

Read our full Burt’s Bees Baby Bee review.

Shortlisted for Best Baby Skincare at the 2015 Mother & Baby Awards, this cream combines calming organic mallow and gentle pansy extracts with nourishing organic coconut and sweet almond oils. Golden beeswax creates a mild protective layer that soothes and shields itchy, dry skin naturally.

Parents praise its gentle, effective care. When my son got irritated skin during winter from daily hot baths, this cream came to my rescue. It’s unscented, which I don’t really prefer, I do wish it had a little scent. I alternate it with Nala's Baby Sleep Lotion at night because I love the calming lavender scent. But I always reach for this one when my son needs extra moisture, especially when his skin barrier is compromised. It works really well whenever I see rough patches or dry skin. I just lather it on, and it’s effective every time.

If your baby’s skin is sensitive and you want something natural yet effective, this lotion is a solid choice that many mums keep coming back to. It’s gentle, calming, and works well for daily use.

If you want one balm that does it all, Weleda Calendula All Purpose Balm is a brilliant pick. I take this everywhere with us because it’s great for everything from dry lips and rough patches to insect bites and dribble rash. The calendula in it is amazing for calming inflammation, and the balm’s rich texture really nourishes skin on the go.

Parents rave about its versatility, and I totally get why. It’s a travel essential when space is tight but you don’t want to compromise on care. If you’re after a natural, reliable balm that multitasks, this one should definitely be on your list.

Hospital-approved and paediatrician-recommended, Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment is a fragrance- and preservative-free formula with 41% petrolatum. This unique blend allows oxygen flow while speeding up skin healing, making it perfect as a daily moisturiser after baths. It’s especially effective for soothing eczema, cracked skin, and dry patches.

Parents swear by its fast results. One mum shared, “After switching back from a cheaper alternative, my baby’s eczema cleared up within days using this ointment. It’s truly the best for healing.”

If you want a dermatologist-trusted ointment that helps skin heal quickly and gently, Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment is a top choice.

E45 Suncare Kids & Baby Sensitive Lotion SPF50+ provides strong sun protection with a gentle formula specially made for babies and children with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. It absorbs quickly, is water-resistant, and leaves no greasy residue, making it ideal for active little ones enjoying outdoor activities, especially swimming and water play.

Customers find the sunscreen effective, with one mentioning it works well on sensitive skin and another noting it provides good protection even in high sun levels. The product also receives positive feedback for its quality and skin-softening properties, with one customer appreciating that it doesn’t feel greasy or shiny. However, several customers have reported significant eye irritation.

One parent shared, "Used just once this morning and already love this for my 2-year-old! I’ve tried so many different types of sensitive suncream for him, but they all make his face red and his eyes red, swollen, watery, and sore instantly (I obviously don’t put it in his eyes, just around), but this hasn’t affected him at all! I’ll definitely be buying more!"

If you’re looking for a reliable sunscreen that’s kind to sensitive skin while offering high SPF protection — especially one that holds up well during swimming and water fun, this sun lotion is a great choice.

Finding a daily SPF that’s gentle but effective can be tricky, but Green People Organic Children Sun Cream hits the mark. It’s got SPF30 protection with a natural, chemical-free formula that’s perfect for sensitive, active kids. It has a light lavender scent that’s fresh without being overpowering, and best of all, it doesn’t leave that annoying white cast or sticky feeling.

This is my son’s go-to sunscreen whether it’s sunny or cloudy. The texture feels more like a moisturiser, which makes applying it way easier. The only downside is the packaging is a bit bulky, but I still find it manageable to carry on days out. For mums wanting a safe, natural sunscreen that works, this one’s a winner.

If you want a fun, compact sunscreen that won’t take up much space, I think Ocean Freedom Surf Clay Blue SPF 50+ is a great choice. From my experience, this vibrant blue, clay-based mineral sunscreen feels natural and safe, with ingredients like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, kaolin clay, and beeswax. It’s dermatologist-approved, reef-safe, and CANSA-certified, offering broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection that really shields young skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. While the blue tint is fun for kids, some might not like it. But I see the appeal — it has that cool surf vibe and makes application more playful. That said, I found the thick texture can pull on the skin when applying it on my son and doesn’t fully blend once on.

The formula is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and free from parabens, sulphates, and toxins, which is important now that many of us are eco-conscious. The blue color subtly fades in water (without looking like a smurf!), adding a playful touch that both kids and adults enjoy. Plus, the 50g tub is super handy for family trips. It also comes in Pink.

Overall, I think it’s a solid pick for families wanting strong sun protection, especially for active kids who love water play. That said, the thick texture does require some effort to apply smoothly.
Parent reviews have been mixed. One said, “This sunscreen is an absolute game-changer for all your beach adventures!... Suitable for sports and swimming for the whole family... Safe for children with sensitive skin.”

Another shared, “Ideal for staying protected in water or during sports… clings well and won’t wash off… but it’s thick and heavy, sometimes leaving visible streaks.”