Sensitive Skin
What to Look for in Sensitive Skin Products?
Skincare for sensitive skin can be tricky, but if you read the ingredient labels on the products available, you can steer clear of potential irritants and give your skin the care it needs. After all, what's in a product is just as important as what isn't. In general, there are also several key terms to look for, including "fragrance-free," as well as seals of approval from various dermatological organizations.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Skincare for sensitive skin doesn’t have to be complicated, but there are certain ingredients that can help keep skin calm and comfortable. Ceramides can help restore your skin’s barrier, help maintain hydration and shield your skin from external triggers that could cause symptoms of sensitivity.1 Niacinamide is known to help calm skin2 and Hyaluronic Acid is a gentle yet effective moisturizing ingredient3 that is ideal for sensitive skin care.
Ingredients to avoid
To help minimize the potential for related irritation, those with sensitive skin should try to avoid products containing:
- Fragrance4
- Dyes4
- Essential oils4
- Exfoliating particles and microbeads5
Finding the best skincare for sensitive skin
Less is more when it comes to any sensitive skin care routine, and the basic sensitive skin products are cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. This minimalistic approach applies to ingredients as well, and the shorter the ingredient list the better. Fragrance-free products are also a wise choice for sensitive skin.5 It’s also important to stop using any product that causes redness, burning or itching—and keep irritated skin protected from the sun. If you do notice a skin reaction that doesn't improve within a few days, a trip to the dermatologist may be in order.
Facial cleanser for sensitive skin
Cleansing is an essential first step in your skincare routine, and sensitive skin care is no exception. There are a variety of options when it comes to cleanser for sensitive skin, and if you have drier skin you might want to opt for a non-foaming face wash for sensitive skin. You might even choose a micellar water, which can provide you with gentle cleansing on the go. Regardless of skin type, look for beneficial ingredients like Ceramides to help restore the skin’s barrier1 along with Hyaluronic Acid for hydration.3
Moisturizer and lotion for sensitive skin
Those with sensitive skin can also have a compromised skin barrier, which can lead to dryness. To help restore your skin's barrier, you should use a face moisturizer for sensitive skin every morning and evening (or more often if necessary). Good options include lightweight lotions for oily and acne-prone skin, as well as creams for drier skin that can benefit from a richer moisturizer. And don't forget to look for a body lotion for sensitive skin, which you should use as often as you need to in order to help your skin stay hydrated. Remember, Ceramides that help restore the skin’s protective barrier are a beneficial ingredient in any moisturizer for sensitive skin.1
Sunscreen for sensitive skin
All skin requires broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that should be used as directed (in addition to other sun protection measures) to help prevent the damage that can lead to visible signs of aging and skin cancer, but sensitive skin can be especially aggravated by UV rays.5 (All CeraVe sunscreens, whether they contain mineral- or chemical-based sunscreen filters are developed by dermatologists and suitable for sensitive skin.)
Frequently Asked Questions About $name
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References
- Meckfessel, M. H., & Brandt, S. (2014). The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 71(1), 177-184.
- Baumann, L. (2009) Cosmetic Dermatology: Principles and Practice (pp.126-128). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical
- Baumann, L. (2015) Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients (pp.77-80). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical
- https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/sensitive-skin-products
- https://www.webmd.com/beauty/sensitive-skin-20-questions
- Baumann, L. (2015) Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients (pp.20). New York: McGraw-Hill Medical
- Baumann, L. (2015) Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients (pp.48-50). rel="noopener noreferrer" New York: McGraw-Hill rel="noopener noreferrer" Medical
- https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(09)00865-3/fulltext
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