The Ultimate Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Calendula OilLauren Petrullo
A woman doing her skincare
1 comment

Sensitive skin, you either have it or know someone who does. It's that skin that seems to be always irritated, red, itchy, and just plain unhappy. 

I totally get you! Sensitive skin is no joke. It can be so frustrating to find a skincare routine that actually works for you, and sometimes it seems like nothing is ever going to help with that annoying sensibility. 

But don't worry, we're here to help! In this post, we'll share our ultimate skincare routine for sensitive skin, so you can finally get the relief you deserve. I promise, with this routine, your skin will be soft, smooth, and free of any irritation or redness. 

So what are you waiting for? Start reading!

But first, what is sensitive skin type?

Sensitive skin is characterized not only by irritation but also by a heightened response to external stimuli, such as environmental factors like pollution and allergens. It can manifest in various ways, including redness, dryness, flakiness, stinging, or itching sensations. Genetic factors and skin conditions, such as eczema and rosacea, may also exacerbate sensitivity.

In addition to external triggers, internal factors such as hormonal changes, stress, and dietary habits can contribute to sensitive skin. Certain foods, like spicy or acidic items, can aggravate the condition. To identify your skin type, consider tracking your reactions to products and environmental changes through a journal. Ask yourself:

  • Do you find that most skincare products irritate your skin?
  • Do you have to be very careful about what products you use, as even gentle products can sometimes cause a reaction?
  • Do you experience redness, itchiness, or burning sensations on your skin often?
  • Do you have a history of allergic reactions or skin conditions?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you likely have sensitive skin.

Sensitive skin occurs when the outermost layer of skin is damaged or weakened, potentially due to factors such as sun exposure, harsh weather, or the use of inappropriate skincare products. Individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to developing conditions like contact dermatitis or worsening conditions like eczema.

Best skincare for sensitive skin: The easiest, irritation-free routine

Finding products that won't irritate sensitive skin can be challenging. From avoiding drying cleansers to seeking moisturizers that provide adequate hydration without causing reactions, it often feels like a struggle. However, we’ve created an easy, irritation-free skincare routine designed to help you say goodbye to redness and irritation.

Follow these steps for a personalized skincare approach, including practical tips for selecting gentle products for your needs.

Step #1: Gentle skin cleanser

Select cleansers free of soaps, dyes, fragrances, and harsh chemicals known to irritate delicate skin. Remember, your cleanser should be:

  • Soap-free and alcohol-free, to avoid irritation and dryness.
  • Gentle enough for daily use without stripping away natural oils.
  • Enriched with soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica, chamomile, and tea extracts.

Here are my must-try cleansers that align with these criteria:

Want to know more about which cleansers are ideal for sensitive skin? Check out this article: Types of Cleansers: Yeah, There is More Than One!

Step #2: Toner

Think of toner as a refreshing cup of hydration for your skin that helps restore your pH levels without compromising your skin barrier.

Opt for toners that are alcohol-free and devoid of harsh astringents to prevent irritation:

Step #3: Serums

This step is crucial for achieving calm, hydrated skin.

A suitable serum should include natural antioxidants, like vitamin C, to soothe and protect, as well as anti-inflammatory properties to lessen redness. Look for hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and ingredients that repair the skin barrier. Consider these top-rated serums:

Step #4: Moisturizer

Moisturizers are essential in your skincare routine but can be challenging to navigate with sensitive skin.

Choose a fragrance-free moisturizer without harsh chemicals to minimize irritation. Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and chamomile that restore moisture and protect the skin barrier. Ensure the product is non-comedogenic, particularly if you're prone to eczema. Here are my top moisturizers:

Moisturizer
Revitalize Your Skin with Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream - 50ml
Moisturizer Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
$26.00
Moisturizer
Yuja Niacin Brightening Gel Cream - Hydrate & Illuminate Skin's Glow
Moisturizer Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream
$20.00

Step #5: Sunscreen

SPF is important, especially for those with sensitive skin. Opt for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they provide a physical barrier against harmful UV rays without irritating sensitive skin. Apply sunscreen daily and reapply often if you're spending prolonged time in the sun to prevent dark spots and skin damage.

Note: You can enhance your routine with additional steps, such as incorporating an eye cream or face masks designed for sensitive skin. It's all about customizing your regimen to best suit your skin's needs!

Skin care products for sensitive skin: Do’s and Don’ts

With so many products on the market, it's hard to know which ones will work for you and which ones will leave you feeling red, blotchy, and itchy. To help you make the best choices for your skin, here are a few do's and don'ts:

Do’s

  • Look for products that are labeled " hypoallergenic", “allergy tested”, “fragrance-free”, “paraben-free”, or "for sensitive skin.". These products have been specifically formulated to be gentle on sensitive skin. In the U.S. you can also find hypoallergenic products that have the National Eczema Association Seal. 
  • Do a patch test for new products before using them all over your face. Apply a small amount of the product to a small area of your skin and wait 24 hours to see if there is any reaction. If there is no reaction after 24 hours, it should be safe to use the product on your entire face.
  • Be patient. It may take some trial and error to find the right products for your skin, but it will be worth it in the end. Start with small amounts of each product and gradually increase if needed. And don't forget to give your new regimen time to work!
  • Always look for hydrating and calming ingredients like hyaluronic acid, essential oils, rice extracts, vitamin E, witch hazel, and other active ingredients. 
  • Listen to your skin. Ultimately, only you know what's best for your skin. If a product isn't working or if you're experiencing any irritation, discontinue use immediately. And always consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin care routine.

Don’ts

  • Assume that all natural products are automatically good for your skin. Just because a product is made from natural ingredients doesn't mean it won't aggravate your skin. In fact, some natural ingredients and beauty products can actually be quite irritating even though they are vegan and apparently safe.
  • Mix ingredients that can be drying and irritating, like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients can help to treat acne, but also can cause redness and irritation. Want to know what other ingredients you shouldn’t mix? Here’s what you need to know! 
  • Use products that contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients. These can irritate sensitive skin and make your condition worse.
  • Use more products than is necessary. A little goes a long way with sensitive skin, so using too much can actually do more harm than good.
  • Skip the sunscreen. Sensitive skin is especially susceptible to sun damage, so always wear sunscreen when you'll be spending time outdoors. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every few hours if you're going to be in the sun for an extended period of time.

Facial products for sensitive skin: Where to find them

Now that you know everything about the perfect skincare for sensitive skin, it’s time to go shopping! 

If you fell in love with any of these products or are itching *no pun intended* to find the right components for your ideal skincare routine, you’ve come to the right place! In Asian Beauty Essentials we have the best skincare products for your skin type! 

Want to shop by skin type? Here’s our sensitive skin collection!

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1 comment

Vilvah

Vilvah

I regret taking care of my skin – said no one, ever. May my skin be glowing and looks strong. Aging is a fact of life. That led me to look for skincare products such you mentioned above to take care of my skin well

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