American-Made Skin Care: Face, Body & Moisturizers

Shop American-made skin care for face, body, hands and lips from independent cosmetic makers, farms and small-batch personal-care businesses across the United States. Explore facial oils, serums, toners, hydrosols, moisturizers, body lotions, creams, body butters, tallow balms, salves, lip balms, clay masks, exfoliants and gift-ready skin-care sets.

The best product depends on where it will be used, the texture you prefer, the ingredients and fragrance you tolerate, and what the product is lawfully intended to do. A facial oil, body butter, sunscreen, insect repellent and topical pain product are not interchangeable—and they do not all follow the same labeling requirements.

For a broader comparison of cleansers, soap, shaving products, beard care and solid hair products, read our American-Made Bath & Body Guide. You can also browse American-made bar soap, American-made grooming products and the broader Bath & Body collection.

Shop American-Made Skin Care by Type

Build a Simple Skin-Care Routine

A routine does not need a large number of products. A practical starting structure is cleansing, applying any properly labeled treatment or serum, moisturizing and using sun protection during the day.

Basic Morning Routine

1. Cleanse gently or rinse according to your skin and the product directions.
2. Apply a serum or other cosmetic product when used.
3. Apply moisturizer.
4. Apply a properly labeled broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin.
5. Apply makeup when desired.

Basic Evening Routine

1. Remove makeup, sunscreen and surface debris.
2. Cleanse without aggressive scrubbing.
3. Apply any properly labeled treatment or serum.
4. Apply moisturizer, facial oil or balm according to the product directions.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying medication or treatment after cleansing, followed by moisturizer and sunscreen. It also cautions that using too many products can irritate the skin. Read the AAD’s skin-care application-order guide.

Introduce One Product at a Time

Adding several new products at once makes it difficult to identify which formula caused dryness, burning, redness or another unwanted reaction.

When practical:

• Add one new product.
• Follow its directions consistently.
• Allow time to evaluate skin tolerance.
• Stop use when significant irritation develops.
• Add the next product only after the first has been evaluated.

Facial Cleansers

A facial cleanser should remove surface oil, sunscreen, makeup and debris without unnecessary abrasion.

Gel and Foaming Cleansers

Gel and foaming cleansers are often selected by shoppers who prefer a lighter rinse and noticeable lather. The amount of foam does not by itself determine cleansing quality.

Cream and Milky Cleansers

Cream cleansers generally provide a softer, less-foamy application experience. They can be useful for people who dislike a tight or heavily cleansed feeling after washing.

Oil Cleansers

Oil cleansers can help dissolve oil-soluble makeup and sunscreen. Some emulsify and rinse with water, while others require a second cleansing step.

Check:

• Whether the product emulsifies
• Whether a second cleanser is recommended
• Eye-area directions
• Fragrance and essential oils
• Plant-oil allergens

Facial Cleansing Bars

A solid bar should be specifically described for facial cleansing before it is used on the face. A heavily fragranced, strongly cleansing or coarse exfoliating body bar may be inappropriate for delicate facial skin.

For solid cleansers and traditional soaps, browse the American-Made Bar Soap collection.

How to Wash the Face Gently

• Use lukewarm rather than very hot water.
• Apply cleanser with clean fingertips.
• Avoid forceful scrubbing.
• Rinse thoroughly.
• Pat dry with a clean soft towel.
• Apply moisturizer when appropriate.

The American Academy of Dermatology provides additional guidance in its Face Washing 101 guide.

Toners, Astringents and Hydrosols

Toner is a broad cosmetic term rather than one standardized formula. Toners can be water based, alcohol based, oil containing, botanical or fragranced.

Toner

A toner is generally applied after cleansing and before serum or moisturizer. It can provide a lightweight layer of cosmetic ingredients or remove a small amount of remaining residue.

Astringent

An astringent commonly has a stronger degreasing or drying feel and may contain alcohol, witch hazel or other ingredients associated with oil removal.

A product that feels refreshing to one user can feel drying or irritating to another.

Hydrosol

A hydrosol is an aromatic water produced during botanical distillation. Hydrosols may be made from rose, lavender or other plant materials.

Review:

• Botanical source
• Whether other ingredients are added
• Preservation system
• Fragrance intensity
• Spray or pour application
• Storage directions

A hydrosol being called natural does not establish that it is preservative free, nonallergenic or suitable for every skin type.

Facial Serums

Serum describes a lightweight or concentrated product format. It does not identify one standard ingredient list or level of effectiveness.

A serum may be:

• Water based
• Oil based
• Gel based
• An emulsion
• A botanical extract blend
• A combination of humectants, oils and cosmetic ingredients

Before Buying a Serum

Review:

• Complete ingredient list
• Intended skin area
• Cosmetic claim
• Recommended amount
• Morning or evening use
• Whether sunscreen is recommended during use
• How the serum fits with other products

Water-Based vs. Oil-Based Serum

A water-based serum can provide a lighter feel beneath moisturizer. An oil-based serum behaves more like a facial oil and may be applied after a water-based product or moisturizer, depending on the maker’s directions.

Eye Serums

Use an under-eye serum only as directed. Keep it out of the eyes and do not assume that a facial serum is automatically approved for the eyelid or immediate eye area.

Facial Oils

Facial oils can smooth the skin’s surface, provide emollient ingredients and reduce moisture loss. They do not add water to the skin in the same way as a water-based lotion or cream.

Common oils can include:

• Jojoba oil
• Rosehip oil
• Argan oil
• Apricot-kernel oil
• Avocado oil
• Sunflower-seed oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Olive oil
• Strawberry-seed oil
• Castor oil
• Squalane

How to Apply Facial Oil

1. Begin with clean hands.
2. Use only the amount directed by the maker.
3. Spread the oil lightly between fingertips.
4. Press or smooth it onto the intended skin area.
5. Add more only when necessary.

Some products are applied directly to clean damp skin, while others are used after moisturizer. Follow the exact directions.

Dropper Hygiene

• Do not touch the dropper to the face or fingers.
• Do not return spilled product to the bottle.
• Keep water out of the container.
• Close the cap promptly.
• Protect the oil from heat and direct light.

Plant-Oil Allergies

Products may contain sweet-almond oil, walnut-derived ingredients or other tree-nut oils. Cosmetic allergen labeling does not operate exactly like packaged-food allergen labeling, so review the complete ingredient list and contact the maker when a source is unclear.

Moisturizers: Lotion vs. Cream vs. Butter vs. Balm

Humectants, Emollients and Occlusives

Moisturizers commonly combine several functional ingredient types.

• Humectants: Help attract or hold water within the formula and at the skin’s surface. Examples can include glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
• Emollients: Smooth the skin’s surface. Examples can include plant oils, esters, butters and squalane.
• Occlusives: Create a surface layer that reduces moisture loss. Examples can include petrolatum, beeswax, plant waxes and selected silicone ingredients.

A product does not need to be completely oil free or completely water free to be useful. Choose the texture you will apply consistently and that suits the intended body area.

Apply Moisturizer to Damp Skin

Applying moisturizer shortly after washing or bathing can help trap water at the skin’s surface. The American Academy of Dermatology provides additional recommendations in its dry-skin care guide.

Body Lotion, Body Oil and Body Butter

Body Lotion

Body lotion is easy to spread across arms, legs and other large areas. Pump containers can reduce repeated finger contact with the remaining product.

Body Oil

Body oils may be applied to damp or dry skin according to the maker’s instructions.

Use care around:

• Tile floors
• Bathtubs and showers
• Light-colored clothing
• Upholstery and bedding

Body Butter

Body butter commonly contains concentrated oils and solid butters and may contain little or no water.

Possible ingredients include:

• Shea butter
• Cocoa butter
• Mango butter
• Coconut oil
• Tallow
• Beeswax
• Plant oils
• Fragrance or essential oils

A whipped body butter can lose volume or change texture when melted and resolidified. That change does not automatically mean the product is spoiled, but follow the seller’s warm-weather and storage guidance.

Tallow Balms, Beeswax Salves and Honey-Based Skin Care

Tallow Skin Care

Tallow is rendered animal fat used in some balms, creams and traditional soap formulas.

Tallow products can vary in:

• Purification and deodorization
• Texture
• Added oils
• Beeswax content
• Fragrance
• Whipped or firm consistency

Tallow is animal derived and is not vegan. A grass-fed or pasture-raised claim describes the source of the animal input; it does not prove that the finished balm treats acne, eczema, pain or another condition.

Beeswax Balms and Salves

Beeswax adds firmness and an occlusive texture to balms and salves.

It may be combined with:

• Olive oil
• Avocado oil
• Sunflower oil
• Herbal infusions
• Honey
• Propolis
• Essential oils

Beeswax and other bee-derived ingredients are not vegan. People with known sensitivity to bee products should review the exact ingredient list.

Honey and Propolis

Honey and propolis can be used as cosmetic ingredients in balms, lotions and soaps. A topical product containing honey should not be eaten unless it is separately labeled as food.

Do not assume that honey, propolis or a botanical ingredient turns a cosmetic into a proven treatment for infection, wounds, acne or another medical condition.

Lip Balms and Lip Care

Lip balms commonly combine oils, waxes and flavor or fragrance ingredients.

Possible bases include:

• Beeswax
• Candelilla wax
• Sunflower wax
• Cocoa butter
• Shea butter
• Coconut oil
• Olive oil
• Seed oils

Tube vs. Tin

A tube limits finger contact and is convenient for travel. A tin or pot can hold a softer formula but requires clean hands or a suitable applicator.

Flavored and Scented Lip Balm

Flavor and fragrance can improve the sensory experience but may not suit everyone. Review essential oils, flavoring ingredients and colorants.

Lip Balm with Sun-Protection Claims

A lip balm marketed with an SPF or sunscreen claim is an over-the-counter drug-cosmetic product. It should display the required Drug Facts information and directions.

Do not treat an ordinary zinc, tallow, coconut-oil or beeswax lip balm as sunscreen unless it is lawfully labeled with an SPF and the required drug information.

Clay Masks and Powder Masks

Clay masks can contain bentonite, kaolin, French clay, charcoal, turmeric, herbs, milk powders or other cosmetic ingredients.

Dry Powder Masks

Dry masks are mixed shortly before use with the liquid specified by the maker.

Possible mixing liquids may include:

• Water
• Hydrosol
• Yogurt or another food ingredient when expressly directed
• Honey when expressly directed
• A maker-provided activator

Do not introduce water into the original dry-powder container.

Ready-Mixed Masks

A ready-mixed water-containing mask requires appropriate preservation and clean handling. Keep the lid closed and do not return used product to the container.

Clay and “Detox” Claims

Clay can absorb surface oil and change the temporary feel and appearance of skin. The word detox should not be interpreted as proof that a mask removes systemic toxins from the body.

Contact Time

Follow the product’s contact-time directions. Leaving a mask on until it cracks heavily or becomes uncomfortable is not necessarily more effective.

Face and Body Exfoliants

Physical Exfoliation

Physical exfoliants can contain:

• Sugar
• Salt
• Oatmeal
• Coffee
• Seeds
• Ground botanical material
• Nut-shell particles

Particle size and shape affect how abrasive a scrub feels. A body scrub can be too coarse for the face.

Use Physical Scrubs Carefully

• Use light pressure.
• Do not scrub repeatedly in one location.
• Avoid broken or irritated skin.
• Avoid sunburned areas.
• Use care on recently shaved skin.
• Stop if persistent burning, redness or swelling develops.

Chemical Exfoliation

Some products use acids or enzymes rather than visible particles. Review the active ingredients, directions, contact time, frequency and sun-related warnings.

Do not combine several strong exfoliating products merely because each is sold separately.

Under-Eye Creams and Serums

The skin around the eyes is delicate, and products used there should be clearly intended for that area.

Compare:

• Fragrance
• Essential oils
• Roller, dropper or pump application
• Daytime or nighttime use
• Makeup compatibility
• Eye-contact warnings

Use a small amount and avoid pulling or rubbing the skin aggressively.

A cosmetic can temporarily moisturize or change the appearance of the eye area. Claims to permanently repair tissue, reverse aging or treat an eye condition require a different level of substantiation and regulatory review.

Choose Skin Care by Skin Feel and Routine

Fragrance-Free vs. Unscented Skin Care

Fragrance Free

Fragrance-free products are generally intended to omit ingredients added primarily to create or mask scent.

Unscented

Unscented means the finished product has little noticeable odor. It can still contain an ingredient intended to neutralize or mask another scent.

Essential-Oil Scented

Essential oils are concentrated aromatic plant ingredients. They are not automatically less irritating than fragrance oils.

Common aromatic ingredients can include:

• Lavender
• Peppermint
• Tea tree
• Rosemary
• Bergamot
• Geranium
• Eucalyptus
• Cinnamon
• Citrus oils

The FDA identifies fragrances, preservatives, dyes, natural rubber and metals among common classes of cosmetic allergens. Read the FDA’s cosmetic-allergen guidance.

Natural, Organic, Hypoallergenic and Non-Comedogenic Claims

Natural

Natural is not one uniform federal safety standard for cosmetics. A natural ingredient can still be irritating, allergenic, strongly fragranced or unsuitable for a particular user.

Organic

Personal-care products made with qualifying agricultural ingredients can be certified under USDA organic requirements when they meet the applicable production, handling and labeling rules.

Look for:

• USDA Organic seal when permitted
• Organic labeling category
• Name of the certifying agent
• Identification of the certified ingredients

An individual organic oil does not automatically make the entire product USDA certified organic. Read the USDA’s organic personal-care guidance.

Hypoallergenic

Hypoallergenic represents a manufacturer’s claim that a product is expected to cause fewer allergic reactions than another product. It does not guarantee that no reaction can occur.

Review the FDA’s hypoallergenic-cosmetics guidance.

Non-Comedogenic

Non-comedogenic is commonly used to indicate that a formula is designed to be less likely to clog pores. Individual responses vary, and the term does not guarantee that a product will work for every user or treat acne.

Dermatologist Tested

The phrase does not by itself explain:

• How many people participated
• How long the test lasted
• What outcome was measured
• Whether a comparison product was used
• Whether any reactions occurred

Look for specific testing information rather than relying only on the phrase.

Clean Beauty

Clean beauty is defined differently by brands and retailers. Review the company’s exact ingredient policy and any independent certification.

Sunscreen, SPF and Sun-Balm Claims

Sunscreen is an over-the-counter drug in the United States. A product marketed to protect against sunburn or carrying an SPF claim should display the required Drug Facts information.

What to Look for on Sunscreen

• Drug Facts panel
• Active ingredients
• Broad Spectrum statement
• SPF value
• Water-resistance duration when claimed
• Warnings
• Application and reapplication directions

The FDA explains that broad-spectrum sunscreens help protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. Read the current FDA sunscreen guide.

Is Every Zinc Balm a Sunscreen?

No. Zinc oxide appearing somewhere in an ingredient list does not by itself establish a tested SPF or lawful sunscreen claim.

Choose a product explicitly labeled as sunscreen with:

• SPF value
• Drug Facts
• Active-ingredient percentage
• Required use directions

Daily Sun Protection

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher as part of a broader sun-protection routine that also includes shade and protective clothing.

Acne, Pain-Relief and Treatment Claims

A product’s claims can make it a drug even when its texture and packaging resemble an ordinary cosmetic.

Claims that can affect regulatory category include claims to:

• Treat acne
• Relieve nerve or muscle pain
• Treat eczema or psoriasis
• Heal wounds
• Prevent infection
• Treat fungal conditions
• Regrow or repair tissue
• Change a body function

FDA explains that intended use determines whether a product is a cosmetic, drug or both. Read the FDA cosmetic-versus-drug guide.

Review the Drug Facts Panel

A nonprescription drug label should identify:

• Active ingredient
• Purpose
• Uses
• Warnings
• Directions
• Inactive ingredients

Read the FDA’s OTC Drug Facts Label Guide.

Skin-Applied Insect Repellents

A product that claims to repel mosquitoes, ticks or other pests is generally regulated as a pesticide rather than as an ordinary skin-care cosmetic.

Most skin-applied repellents require EPA registration. Certain minimum-risk products can be exempt when they meet all applicable ingredient, labeling and other requirements.

Before Buying a Repellent

Review:

• EPA registration number when applicable
• Active ingredient
• Target insects
• Age restrictions
• Application frequency
• Face and hand directions
• Clothing-use instructions
• Warnings

Read the EPA’s skin-applied repellent guidance.

A pleasant-smelling botanical body oil should not be assumed to provide proven mosquito or tick protection unless the exact product is properly labeled for that use.

How to Test a New Skin-Care Product

When appropriate for the product, test it on a small area before broader application.

1. Read the complete directions and warnings.
2. Choose a small area such as the underside of the arm or bend of the elbow.
3. Apply the normal amount twice daily for seven to ten days.
4. Leave a rinse-off product on only for the instructed time.
5. Watch for redness, itching, swelling, burning or another reaction.
6. Stop the test when a significant reaction occurs.

This home test cannot guarantee that a product will never cause a reaction and is different from formal medical patch testing.

Read the American Academy of Dermatology’s guide to testing skin-care products.

How to Read a Skin-Care Label

Product Identity

Determine whether the product is:

• A cosmetic
• A cleanser or ordinary soap
• An over-the-counter drug
• A skin-applied repellent
• A combination product

Ingredient List

Review the complete ingredient list for:

• Fragrance
• Essential oils
• Plant and nut oils
• Preservatives
• Colorants
• Milk, tallow, beeswax, honey or lanolin
• Exfoliating particles
• Active drug ingredients

Net Quantity

Compare fluid ounces, ounces, milliliters or grams rather than package dimensions alone. A large jar can contain a whipped formula with lower weight than a dense balm.

Directions

Check:

• Body area
• Amount
• Frequency
• Rinse-off or leave-on use
• Eye-contact warnings
• Sun-related instructions
• Use on children

Manufacturer or Responsible Company

Keep the company name, package and lot information in case a reaction, recall or product question occurs.

Are Cosmetics FDA Approved?

Most cosmetics and cosmetic ingredients do not require FDA approval before sale, except for certain color additives. Companies marketing cosmetics are responsible for product safety and lawful labeling.

Be cautious with unsupported phrases such as:

• FDA-approved cosmetic
• Government-certified natural cream
• FDA-tested serum
• FDA-approved handmade balm

A facility registration or product listing is not the same as FDA approval of a finished cosmetic.

Read the FDA’s cosmetics-regulation guidance.

Packaging and Product Hygiene

Pump Containers

Pumps reduce repeated finger contact with the remaining formula. Keep the nozzle clean and close or lock it during travel when possible.

Jars

• Use clean, dry hands or an applicator.
• Keep water out of the jar.
• Do not share a jar when hygiene is a concern.
• Close it promptly.

Droppers

• Do not touch the dropper to the face.
• Do not wipe it on fingers and return it to the bottle.
• Keep the bottle upright when practical.

Mists and Sprays

• Protect the eyes.
• Avoid inhaling the spray.
• Use only on the body area named by the maker.
• Do not spray near an open flame when the product contains flammable ingredients.

Powder Products

• Avoid creating airborne dust.
• Use a dry scoop.
• Mix each portion in a separate clean container.
• Do not add liquid to the original jar.

Skin-Care Shelf Life and Storage

U.S. law does not generally require cosmetics to display a specific expiration date. Manufacturers remain responsible for determining an appropriate shelf life and marketing a safe product.

Follow any:

• Expiration date
• Best-by date
• Period-after-opening symbol
• Batch or lot code
• Refrigeration requirement
• Use-after-opening direction

Read the FDA’s cosmetic shelf-life guidance.

General Storage Guidance

• Keep containers tightly closed.
• Protect products from excessive heat.
• Keep them out of direct sunlight.
• Keep water out of jars, oils and powders.
• Do not store products in a hot vehicle.
• Retain the original label.
• Keep products away from children unless intended for their use.

Oils and Water-Free Balms

Plant oils can oxidize and develop an unpleasant or rancid odor. Close bottles and protect them from heat and light.

Water-Based Lotions and Creams

Water-containing cosmetics require suitable preservation and clean use. Do not dilute them with tap water or mix products inside the original container.

When to Discard a Product

Stop using and discard a product according to the maker’s guidance when it develops:

• Mold
• Unexpected odor
• Major color change
• Unexpected separation that does not remix as directed
• Gas, swelling or leakage
• Container contamination
• A damaged seal

American-Made Skin-Care Gifts

Skin care can make a useful gift for birthdays, holidays, hosts, bridal parties, care packages and self-care routines.

Simple Face-Care Gift

Combine:

• Gentle cleanser
• Facial oil or serum
• Moisturizer
• Reusable cosmetic cloth or headband

Body-Care Gift

Combine:

• Bar soap
• Body lotion or butter
• Lip balm
• Hand balm or salve
• Soap dish or washcloth

Fragrance-Free Gift

A fragrance-free set is a better starting point when the recipient’s scent preferences are unknown.

Verify that each product is individually labeled fragrance free rather than assuming a set is fragrance free because one item is.

Tallow and Farm-Ingredient Gift

A tallow, goat-milk, beeswax or honey-based assortment can appeal to someone who specifically enjoys traditional animal-derived personal-care ingredients.

Do not choose it for a vegan recipient.

Skin-Care Sampler

Small sizes let the recipient compare textures without committing to one large jar or strong fragrance.

Products to Avoid Giving as a Surprise

Use care with:

• Prescription-style or treatment-oriented products
• Strong exfoliants
• Extreme fragrance
• Acne medication
• Pain-relief products
• Insect repellent
• Products selected for a medical condition

For more recipient and occasion ideas, read our Best American-Made Gifts for Every Occasion.

For additional personal-routine ideas, see American-Made Products for Everyday Self-Care Routines.

What Does American-Made Mean for Skin Care?

A skin-care product can involve several raw materials, suppliers and production stages.

Production can include:

• Growing herbs and botanical ingredients
• Producing tallow, beeswax, honey or milk
• Refining plant oils and butters
• Producing fragrance ingredients
• Developing and testing the formula
• Blending, heating, emulsifying or whipping
• Filling jars, bottles and tubes
• Making pumps, droppers, lids and labels
• Packaging and fulfillment

A serum, balm or lotion can be formulated and filled in the United States while containing imported shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, essential oils, packaging or other components.

Made in USA

An unqualified Made-in-USA statement generally communicates that the product is all or virtually all made domestically.

Made in USA with Domestic and Imported Ingredients

This qualified statement describes meaningful American manufacturing while acknowledging foreign ingredients or components.

Handmade in a Named U.S. State

This can provide useful information about where blending, pouring or filling occurred. It does not automatically establish where every ingredient or package component originated.

Formulated or Blended in the USA

This identifies formulation or mixing work. It does not by itself establish where the ingredients, bottles or jars were made.

Filled or Bottled in the USA

This describes a packaging step. It should not be broadened into a claim that the complete formula and all inputs are American.

American-Grown Ingredients

A strong statement should identify the exact ingredient and source, such as:

• Lavender grown on the maker’s American farm
• Goat milk from a named U.S. dairy
• Domestic grass-fed tallow
• Beeswax from American apiaries
• Sunflower oil grown and processed in the United States

Do not assume a product is American made solely because:

• The company is American owned.
• The package displays an American flag.
• The order ships from a U.S. warehouse.
• The recipe was developed domestically.
• One ingredient is American grown.
• Only the label or gift box was added in the United States.

Read the FTC Made in USA Standard and our Made-in-USA Verification Guide.

More American-Made Bath, Body and Grooming Guides

• American-Made Bath & Body Guide: Compare bar soap, shaving products, beard care, shampoo bars and grooming gifts.
• Bath & Body: Browse soaps, skin care, grooming products, lotions, oils and body-care essentials.
• Bar Soap: Shop goat-milk, tallow, olive-oil, fragrance-free, scented and exfoliating bars.
• Grooming: Shop shaving soap, beard oil, beard balm, shampoo bars, conditioner and hair products.
• Health & Beauty: Explore skin care, bath products, essential oils, wellness tools and other personal-care goods.
• American-Made Self-Care Essentials: Find products for everyday personal routines and wellness goals.
• Best American-Made Gifts: Find birthday, holiday, housewarming, host and appreciation gifts.
• Made-in-USA Verification Guide: Distinguish manufacturing claims from American ownership, formulation, bottling and fulfillment.