Skincare for Sensitive Skin Types

What it is

A sensitive skin type describes skin that has a lower tolerance in general. It may sting, tingle, feel warm or look flushed after using certain products or after exposure to wind, sun or heat. This page is about sensitivity as your everyday baseline. If you are dealing with a temporary flare of redness or irritation, visit our sensitive skin concern page for focused support. Building a routine for a sensitive skin type is about doing less, consistently. Choose a short list of products and introduce only one new product at a time, testing it on a small area first. In the morning, rinse with lukewarm water or a gentle micellar cleanser, apply a soothing moisturizer and finish with a mineral sunscreen. In the evening, cleanse gently and use a comforting cream. Pat skin dry instead of rubbing, and avoid hot water and rough scrubs. Key ingredients to look for include thermal spring water, panthenol and allantoin for a soothing feel; ceramides and glycerin for barrier support; and zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in mineral sunscreens. Many people prefer fragrance-free, short-ingredient-list formulas. If reactions are frequent or strong, talk with a dermatologist.