The signs are all there: the sensation of itching, stinging, and burning on your face. Makes sense that you’d be looking for the best skin care for sensitive skin—because those symptoms are no fun to deal with no matter the time of year.
“Sensitive skin refers to skin that is more prone to irritation from environmental factors, skin care products, or even stress,” Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, says. “While not a medical diagnosis, sensitive skin is a skin type that requires extra care and attention to maintain its barrier and prevent discomfort.”
If you have sensitive skin, you’re going to need products with specific active ingredients and formulations as not to trigger a bad reaction. We consulted dermatologists to get their expertise on the subject—and to recommend specific products so you can put your best face forward.
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Sensitive Skin FAQ
“Sensitive skin is a skin type that easily reacts to ingredients, irritants, and allergens,” Dr. Mina Amin, a Los Angeles-based dermatologist, says. “Many skin conditions can contribute to the sensitivity of your skin, such as eczema, acne, and rosacea. Some individuals are born with skin that is naturally more sensitive.” Choosing the best skin care for sensitive skin usually relies on being extra vigilant when looking at ingredient lists, just in case there’s something in that new lotion or eye cream you’re thinking about buying that might be a trigger.
What skin care issues may arise for those with sensitive skin?
Someone with sensitive skin can also struggle with other skin issues like acne or eczema. Shirazi says that those with sensitive skin have “an inherently weak skin barrier.” which means they are more prone to “dryness, flaking, acne or breakouts.”
What can skin care products should someone with sensitive skin use?
“Sensitive skin benefits most from a routine that prioritizes gentle, hydrating, and barrier-repairing ingredients,” Shirazi says. A gentle face wash that’s also moisturizing is a must, and no matter what kind of skin you have, sun protection (at least SPF30) is a must. Both Shirazi and Garshick say that mineral sunscreens are best for those with sensitive skin because it’s less likely to cause irritation.
A good moisturizer will have ceramides and niacinamide, both of which will soothe the skin and support a weakened skin barrier, while the addition of extra-hydrating serums, peptides, and collagen will further improve overall skin health. It might be best to avoid exfoliating products, like AHA peels, scrubs, or salicylic acid, which can easily upset the skin and lead to redness, blemishes, and dryness. If you want to branch out and use new products like a toner, make sure they’re free of alcohol, because like fragrances, alcohol is one of the many triggers for sensitive skin types to have a flare-up.
