The Compete Guide To
Sensitive Skin

What Is Sensitive Skin?

Skin that is sensitive tends to have a malfunctioning barrier layer. The stratum corneum seals in moisture and protects skin from direct exposure to irritants present in the environment and found in products. Oily, normal and dry skin can all be sensitive, though these skin types may exhibit different symptoms of sensitivity.

Oily skin that is sensitive can be prone to breakouts. Normal sensitive skin may feel dry or tight or show signs of uneven texture such as dryness, flakiness or raised bumps, especially after you use one or more products that provoke irritation. Dry skin can be prone to sensitivity, as the barrier is failing to hold in moisture and seal out toxins.

Many chronic skin conditions involve sensitivity. Eczema, psoriasis and rosacea are three of the most common conditions that increase the sensitivity of skin. Dermatologists recommend that people who have these conditions use products formulated for skin that is sensitive in addition to specialized over-the-counter or prescription treatments.

Skin that is sensitive may burn, sting, tingle and feel dry or tight. Sensitive skin is often prone to turning red. Skin may respond to exposure to irritants by developing a rash, as in cases of atopic dermatitis, or eczema, and contact urticaria, or hives. Bumps, welts and swelling can indicate an allergic reaction. Consult a doctor or dermatologist about cases of extreme sensitivity or if you encounter challenges when trying to control the reactivity of your skin.

The use of harsh personal care products is one of the major contributing factors toward skin sensitivity. Cleansers formulated with harsh sulfates, moisturizers that contain ingredients with sensitizing side effects and cosmetics formulas that dry out skin can all increase sensitivity levels.

More people are experiencing sensitive skin due to air pollution. Other environmental factors such as prolonged sun exposure, exposure to extreme temperatures and going out in harsh weather with insufficient protection can take a toll on skin that has diminished barrier function. You should use cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreens and cosmetics that support the reconstruction of this protective layer.

In addition to harsh cleansers that strip away natural oils, washing your face or body with water that is too hot can increase sensitivity. Skin is less prone to dry out and lose barrier function if you use gentle products and lukewarm water. It is also possible for high mineral content in water to have drying and irritating effects on skin.

The best way to find out what is making your skin sensitive is to stop using as many products. Spot test and use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen for a week or more to see how your skin reacts. You can then start adding skincare treatments back into your routine and monitor your skin for any signs of adverse reaction or increased sensitivity.

The best skin care routine for your skin will vary based on your skin type in addition to the condition of sensitivity and any other conditions. In general, all skin that is sensitive calls for gentle cleansers and the use of moisturizer. While this may seem obvious for dry skin, oily skin also needs to be moisturized daily. 

One of the reasons why skin may become oily is because harsh cleansers and treatments, hot water and environmental stressors are causing skin to overproduce sebum or oil. Using gentle treatments, cooler water and protective formulas with antioxidants and physical sunscreens can go a long way toward regulating oil production levels.

If your sensitive skin is oily and acne-prone, you should use gentle products with blemish-fighting ingredients. Salicylic acid can be less drying than benzoyl peroxide. Try to limit direct hand contact with irritated areas and clean your hands before touching your face to avoid spreading bacteria. 

The cleanser and skin care products you use should be formulated for sensitive skin. Even if a product is marketed for skin that is sensitive, it is still important to check ingredient lists for known or likely allergens. If you have a reaction to a product, discontinue use immediately, try to identify the cause and steer clear of problem ingredients. It is also important to check sunscreen and cosmetic formulas, as these products can also contribute toward skin sensitivity.

Sunscreen that is suitable for reactive skin may contain mineral or chemical ingredients. Effective sun protection and a gentle formulation can reduce two of the most common causes of skin irritation. 

One of the most popular sunscreens for people who have skin sensitivity is Elta MD UV Clear SPF 46 Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen, 1.7 oz. A combination of zinc oxide 9.0% and 7.5% octinoxate shields skin from UVA and UVB rays. Niacinamide or Vitamin B3 and Tocopheryl acetate or Vitamin E soothe reactive skin and reduce free radicals. This product is formulated without fragrance, oil or parabens.

A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is recommended for all skin types and conditions. Obagi Nu-Derm Physical UV Block SPF 32, 2 oz is one of the leading physical or mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin. This ultra-smooth formula contains zinc oxide 18.5% and will not clog pores.

Dedicated protection can be helpful for extra-sensitive areas such as the lips, nose and ears. The best physical sunscreen for delicate skin is TIZO Solar Protection Formula LIPTECT SPF 45, 0.14 oz. This treatment contains sunflower seed wax and ginger root oil and is gentle enough for use on all skin types.

One of the easiest ways to combine sunscreen and makeup without increased risk of product reactions is to use an all-in-one tinted moisturizer. Correct, protect, brighten and hydrate skin while concealing discoloration and redness with the anti-aging formula of REVISION Skincare Intellishade SPF 45 Original, 1.7 oz.

Moisturize skin that shows signs of sensitivity with products formulated to soothe existing inflammation and prevent further irritation. One of the most popular moisturizers for reactive skin is Cellex C Skin Firming Cream Plus, 2 oz. This anti-aging cream is formulated with pure L-ascorbic acid and tyrosine to stimulate collagen production and does not cause sun sensitivity.

Sensitive skin that tends toward dryness can benefit from being moisturized while in the shower. Bathe in lukewarm or tepid water to retain healthy levels of natural oils and use a nourishing cleanser such as Elemis Frangipani Monoi Shower Cream, 6.8 oz. Frangipani blossoms, Tahitian Monoi oil and Tiare flowers soaked in Coprah oil restore moisture while releasing an exotic fragrance. 

Moisturizers by Elemis are also effective options for dry skin with sensitivities. A formula suitable for everyday use is Elemis Hydra-Boost Sensitive Day Cream, 1.6 oz. This antioxidant-rich formula provides an immediate hydration boost and calms irritation while working to restore balance to skin over time. 

Natural products can also be a good choice for sensitive skin, though some formulas are more gentle than others. Alpha lipoic acid, malic acid, vitamin C and coenzyme Q10 unite in Juice Beauty Green Apple Age Defy Moisturizer, 2 oz. This smoothing moisturizer containing organic green apple juice and a blend of botanicals is not intended for use on rosacea or skin that is very sensitive. People who have these conditions and want to use natural skin care formulas should consider Juice Beauty moisturizers in the Stem Cellular or Daily Essentials collections.

When your skin is sensitized, you should only use cosmetics formulated with gentle ingredients. The Colorescience All Calm Redness Corrective Kit contains three of the best products to reduce inflammation. This set contains All Calm Clinical Redness Corrector SPF 50, a Mini Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-on Shield SPF 50 in Medium and a Mini Hydrating Setting Mist.

Once you manage unwanted redness, your skin is ready to display any color of makeup. You can wear a bold red lip color such as Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain Forever Red without drawing attention to redness in your complexion. This multipurpose stain has a shade-adjusting formula that matches the undertones of skin and nourishes lips with a blend of avocado butter, beeswax, olive butter and wild rose wax.

Achieve light to medium coverage to even out your skin tone and conceal redness with Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals A Foundation Natural, 1.01 oz. A formula with encapsulating liposomes packaged in an airtight pump preserves the effectiveness of active ingredients through application. Add sun protection and achieve longer wear with Jane Iredale Amazing Base or PurePressed Base.

People who have sensitive skin and allergies should exercise particular caution with regard to eye makeup. Line eyes with latex-free Jane Iredale Liquid Eyeliner Black Brown, 0.20 oz. This product made with mineral pigments contains radish root and rosemary leaf extracts. Jane Iredale Liquid Eyeliner is vegan and wheat free.

Another popular choice of eye makeup is Pur Pur Minerals Fully Charged Mascara Black, 0.44 oz. This non-irritating mascara boasts magnetic technology that increases the adherence of the formula to lashes. Biotin, panthenol and peptides promote lash health and reduce premature fallout and breakage. The vegan formula is cruelty-free, gluten-free and paraben-free.

The cleanser you use on skin with sensitivities may determine the level of reactivity going forward. Choose a product formulated for your skin type in addition to the sensitive condition of your skin. It is generally a good idea for people dealing with reactive skin or dry skin to avoid cleansers and skin care treatments that contain drying alcohol. 

People who have sensitive skin who want to promote skin cell turnover for a more radiant appearance can try Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Amino Acid Exfoiating Peel Pads, 60 pc. A 20% complex of phytic acid, salicylic acid and sodium lactate provide gentle chemical exfoliation. Peptide building amino acids are delivered along with Vitamins A and E. The alcohol-free, pH balanced formulation contains soothing chamomile and green tea and does not contain fragrance.

Acne sufferers with skin sensitivity can try PCA Skin Bpo 5% Cleanser, 1.7 oz. This 5% benzoyl peroxide treatment includes gluconolactone to calm and moisturize skin. Phytic acid gently resurfaces skin as jojoba seed oil, wheat germ oil and aloe leaf juice provide moisture. Algae, cucumber and grape seed extracts nourish and balance sensitive skin.

One of the best selling gentle skin cleansers is Image Skincare Ormedic Facial Cleanser, 12 oz Pro Size. The paraben-free and sulfate-free formula contains organic aloe vera, chamomile, green tea and oat kernel extracts to soothe reactive skin.

Another popular choice for cleansing skin that shows signs of sensitivity is L’Occitane Cleansing Milk, 6.7 oz. This cleansing cream infused with figs and organic honey sourced from Provence soothes, softens and protects skin. This cleanser clears away impurities, including waterproof makeup, and is suitable for daily use on all skin types.

These are some of the best skin care products and cosmetics for skin that is sensitive. Keep in mind that products labeled for sensitive skin can still contain irritating ingredients. As you determine which substances sensitize your skin, you should check the ingredient lists of all the products you currently use. Always do 24-hour spot tests of new products prior to full applications. With regular use, gentle skin care products and makeup can help your skin to become more resilient over time.