What Is Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin tends to be skin that is easily stimulated. This means that the skin reacts faster and quicker than skin that isnt sensitive.
It all depends on factors such as seasons, products and even hormonal fluctuations. If you notice your skin getting flaky, dry and tight, rashes and acne, then you are probably suffering from sensitive skin.
With that said, we all tend to have sensitive skin at some point in our lives. However, some people have actual skin conditions such as contact dermatitis and rosacea. Those who are genetically sensitive will always have an extra sensitivity to their skin.
Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Were continuing with products that are no-frills! Up next is the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. This cleanser has a unique texture, almost like youre putting on a moisturizer, its gentle and smooth as you rub it on your face.
It is also fragrance-free which we know is a must for sensitive skin! This cleanser is not stripping on the face but will still cleanse the dirt away from your face. It will leave your skin clean and nourished.
Its ingredients include ceramides which act as glue to hold the skin cells together and protect them against environmental factors. There is also hyaluronic acid which hydrates and nourishes.
You will love the affordability and simplicity of the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. As mentioned before, often the most basic skincare products are the most effective, especially for sensitive skin.
If youre worried about the ingredients, compared to Cetaphil, this doesnt have SLS, which is also a plus! Another advantage that the CeaVe cleanser has is that its extremely hydrating and ideal for dry skin.
Dermatologist approved and gentle ingredients are two things that SkinCeuticals stand by when it comes to their skincare products. They take skincare to the next level with their extensive research on ingredients that will not be harsh on the skin.
The SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser is everything! Appropriately formulated for sensitive skin with potent and gentle cleansing properties.
What Ingredients Should I Avoid If I Have Dry Skin
As much as there are ingredients that you should look for, there are a handful of ingredients you need to carefully avoid if you suffer from dry skin. Dry skin is already uncomfortable enough, so dont make it harder on yourself and your skin.
Stay away from this harmful ingredients that will ultimately make your dry skin worsen:
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Benzoyl Peroxide
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Paulas Choice Defense Hydrating Gel
Paulas Choice is a brand thats known for its simple yet effective products. Their philosophy is Smart, Safe Beauty. The formulation of their products is backed by scientific research with respect to their consumers.
They also believe in not using ingredients that will cause harm to the skin, especially for people with sensitive skin.
Paulas Choice Defense Hydrating Gel-to-Cream Cleanser is non-irritating and fragrance-free. When you are cleansing, it reinforces and builds a barrier on your skin. It has a milky emulsion that softens and gently cleanses your skin.
When you pump it at first, it comes out as a gel, and when you rub it between your fingers, it turns into a milky texture that is hydrating to your skin as well. You will feel clean without feeling any tightness!
Best Mask For Sensitive Skin: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Jelly Sheet Mask Hydrating And Soothing
Check out the ingredients for this hydrating mask and youll find centella asiatica extract, better known as cica. That powerhouse ingredient is known to help with redness and inflammationwhich helps to explain why our reviewers reported feeling so glowy after using the mask. See the full ingredients list here.
Bonus Points, Per the Experts: This mask contains hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, which both get a thumbs up from the derms.
Just So You Know: This product contains fragrance, which our derms said can be potentially irritating to sensitive skin.
One Tester Said: This sheet mask was difficult to apply because of the texture and material so I had to be careful not to rip it as I removed it from the packaging. I liked how it came in two sections because it fit the contours of my face better than other sheet masks usually do. Once on, it felt very hydrating and like its doing something because the skin starts to tingle but not to a point where it is uncomfortable. My skin looked noticeably better immediately after I removed the mask: Definitely more glowy and fresh. I could imagine this mask would feel even more refreshing if it was stored in the fridge.
Buy It: $8, glowrecipe.com
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Best Overall Acne Cleanser
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Good Light Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser
There are so many natural and chemical-free skin care products on the market. But none can ever come close to Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser! You’ll be amazed at how powerful this cleanser can be without any harmful chemicals or ingredients. You’ll never have to worry about your dry skin again with this unique face cleanser.
On top of being one of the best water cleansers on the market, Cosmic Dew also provides your skin with relief from inflammation, helps strengthen your skin barrier, and provides excellent hydration.
It’s time to get cleaned !
Also Check: Gentle Non Soap Facial Cleanser
Best Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin: Lancme Absolue Revitalizing Brightening Soft Cream
If extra hydration is on your list of must-haves, this is the cream for you. Reviewers felt that their skin looked instantly hydrated and more plump after using this creamand it stayed that way all day long. See full ingredients list here.
Bonus Points, Per the Experts: This item has glycerin, which our derms noted as something to look for in moisturizers if you have sensitive skin.
Just So You Know: This product contains fragrance and essential oils, which our derms said can be potentially irritating to sensitive skin.
One Tester Said: Wow, holy moisturizing balm! This cream is velvety smooth and goes on thick like a balm. Also it smells lovely, a subtle, delicate rose. I definitely wish Id had this mid-winter when my skin was windburned and all around parched from the constant hot/dry indoor heat versus the freezing cold outside winter. This absorbs quickly and left my skin looking instantly more dewy. This stuff is heavy though, not sure Id want to wear it year round, unless I had very dry skin, but I bet for frequent travelers, this would also be a dream.
Buy It: $120, nordstrom.com
Also Check: Rite Aid Gentle Skin Cleanser
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser
| Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser.
It isnt surprising that Neutrogena has made more than one appearance on our list of 27 best face washes for sensitive skin – theyre a prolific brand in the world of gentle, good-for-you skincare. This Ultra Gentle Hydrating Daily Facial Cleanser is designed specifically for dry sensitive skin, and effectively cleanses by gently removing excess oil, dirt and makeup, so your skin feels clean and moisturized every day.
It is free of soap and fragrance, and has no added parabens or dyes. Its uniquely formulated with minimal ingredients that are specially chosen to hydrate and protect. This cleanser was developed alongside dermatologists and is so gentle that even those with sensitive skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea can use it.
Recommended Reading: Is Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser Good For Eczema
Things To Consider When Buying A Cleanser For Sensitive Skin
Look for a cleanser with a dense and creamy texture and soothing ingredients like witch hazel, willow bark, or aloe vera for sensitive skin. Such ingredients help in balancing the pH and preventing skin irritation without making your skin dry. It is recommended to stay away from harsh ingredients that can cause damage to sensitive skin. Avoid opting for soap-based cleansers as they have alkaline properties and can dehydrate the skin.
A cleanser with mild exfoliants is a great choice as it helps in removing excess dirt and impurities. A cleanser with soft particles like microbeads or peach pits is also recommended. Additionally, do not buy cleansers with artificial fragrances as they can cause itching and rashes on sensitive skin.
A product is labeled as safe to use on sensitive skin if it meets all the quality standards. Therefore, make it a point to always check the label. Any product that is dermatologically approved or clinically tested is safe to use.
Facial cleansers for sensitive skin come in different price ranges. You can get any suitable cleanser within your budget, but it does not mean that you should go for any random brand. Always invest in a brand you have heard of and is trusted.
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Is Ultra Facial Cleanser Safe To Use While Pregnant
While every ingredient we use in our products is evaluated for safety, we do not specifically test our products on women who are pregnant or nursing. Kiehl’s ensures there is substantial information supporting the safety of our products when used as directed by consumers. However, as there could be certain ingredients that physicians may not recommend for use during pregnancy, we recommend that you discuss this with your physician and follow their advice.
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The Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser Is A Brand Known For Combatting The Effects Of Sensitive Skin And Contains Ceramides And Hyaluronic Acid To Hydrate The Skin
Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides
When I went to a dermatologist in middle school after suffering for months with dry skin, my doctor suggested the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Now, after using it for almost 10 years, I understand why.
Its formulated with hyaluronic acid, an ingredient Dr. Peredo and Dr. Zeichner recommends dry and sensitive skin, to instantly nourish rougher areas, like near your ears and on the crease of your chin. The dermatologist-curated formula includes glycerin to help hydrate the skin without stripping moisture away, too.
Because its non-foaming, the lotion-like consistency adds to the overall hydration. Its also fragrance- and paraben-free, non-comedogenic , and even certified by the National Eczema Association.
After using this cleanser for so long, it hasnt led to any breakouts, as is the case when I switch to some other brands. It has a firm gel formula that, when activated with water, is truly a miracle on skin that needs an extra boost. And, its made of simple ingredients that undoubtedly deem it my all-time favorite cleanser to use daily.
Ingredients To Avoid For Sensitive Skin
When you’re seeking the best face wash for sensitive skin, you can’t head to your local drugstore and pick up the first product you see. Be sure to check labels for potentially harmful ingredients.
What should you keep an eye out for? Jeannel Astarita, a medical aesthetician and founder of Just Ageless in New York City, recommends avoiding parabens, phthalates, and fragrances since they can cause an imbalance in your skin’s pH and lead to rashes, overdrying, breakouts, and redness. Astarita also urges those with sensitive skin to refrain from any cleansers or washes that claim to leave skin “tingly.” These often include menthol or eucalyptol and will strip your skin of its natural sebum, which leads to extreme irritation and dryness.
Dr. Nichols also says to exercise caution when using a facial cleansing brush, like a Clarisonic, because the bristles can be too harsh for unpredictable skin. “Sometimes these devices can also over strip the skin of its natural oils, which can lead to more sensitivity or acne,” she says. When in doubt, speak with a trusted dermatologist who can recommend the best regimen for your skin.
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H2o+ Face Cleanser For Oily And Dry Skin
Cosmic Dew is an amazing everyday cleanser that gently removes makeup and impurities to reveal a hydrated, vibrant complexion. This refreshing and rich cleansing formula leaves your skin feeling hydrated and vibrant after every wash. No more stripping skin or leaving it feeling dry and tight.
This creamy, luxurious formula leaves skin clean and comfortable. Free from sulfates, formaldehyde, parabens, and phthalates, this gentle cleanser is suitable for all skin types and can especially help with dryness.
Aveeno Oat Calm+restore Cleanser
Aveeno’s Oat Cleanser is the perfect cleanser for sensitive skin. This hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic facial cleaner is gentle enough to use every day, removing dirt, excess oils, and makeup. Aveeno’s oatmeal cleanser doesn’t just clean your faceit moisturizes, calms redness, and soothes irritation.
You wont find any sulfates, parabens, alcohol, dyes, fragrance or phthalates in this simply designed bottle. The hydrating power of this face cleanser remains unmatched.
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Indie Lee Rosehip Cleanser
Indie Lee is a clean skincare brand that was founded by, you guessed it, Indie Lee, and she has a beautiful story. She has a unique lifestyle where she grows her own produce which is all organic and wholesome.
Back in 2009, she was diagnosed with a rare brain tumour. And when she asked her doctor what could have caused it, her doctors immediate reply was What do you put on your skin? Thats when she made it a mission to create a brand that is guaranteed to nourish and be safe for everyones skincare needs.
The Indie Lee Rosehip Cleanser has some lovely ingredients with its key ingredient being Rosehip Seed Oil. This helps to calm redness, including for those who suffer from rosacea. It also contains Red Seaweed extracts and Vitamins A, C and E. These ingredients leave skin calm, nourished and protected.
This cleanser has a gentle formulation that will leave your skin cleansed and moisturized. Its perfect for sensitive skin as the ingredients are all gentle and natural.
Great for both day and night, it cleanses your skin and rinses away makeup that you wore throughout the day. Using it in the morning is one of the best ways to start your day!
How To Figure Out Your Skin Type
Choosing the best face cleanser starts with knowing your skin type. In general,
- Oily skin tends to be shiny and greasy
- Dry skin is flaky, itchy, and red
- Normal skin is clear and not all that sensitive
- Combination skin is dry in some places and oily in others.
If youre not sure where you fit in, ask your dermatologist or aesthetician. Second, its also important to consider your goals, as many cleansers do double duty as brighteners, anti-agers, and moisturizers.
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Farmacy Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser
| Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser.
Farmacys Whipped Greens Foaming Cleanser is a soap-free, pH-balanced and oil-free foaming cleanser suitable for combination-to-oily skin, that cleans pores and draws out dirt, oil, and impurities without over-stripping. Made of naturally-derived ingredients and entirely free from parabens, synthetic fragrance, mineral oils, formaldehyde, and phthalates, this cleanser is ideal for those with sensitive skin.
Moringa seed extract and moringa water, sourced from a farm in Coachella Valley, CA, purifies and refreshes the skin by removing the impurities caused by pollution. Papaya enzyme then gently exfoliates to clean pores of dirt and impurities, revealing a fresh-looking complexion. Green clay from the Auvergne region of France helps to absorb oil, detoxify the skin, and remove buildup without ridding skin of its natural moisture. Finally sodium PCA maintains skin hydration to promote a supple, healthy-looking appearance.
The Best Way To Wash Your Face According To Dermatologists
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I dont remember the exact moment it happened, but at some point in my adult life the once simple step in my skincare routine of washing my face became not so simple. For years, I would just throw water on it, dab it off with a hand towel and think nothing of it.
Now, in my mid-30s, washing my face is something akin to a spiritual practice. I have extremely serious opinions about how my precious countenance needs to be cleansed . On the occasion that my face washing regimen is thwarted, I become deeply upset. For instance, this past weekend I realized I forgot my bursting satchel of skincare products at home while on an overnight trip and realized I would have to wash to either wash my face with just plain water or whats worse, use the hotel bar hand soap .
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Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is one of the bestselling facial cleansers for sensitive skin. Why? Its simple and effective. Even dermatologists recommend this cleanser for people with sensitive skin!
It has a wonderful formula that is both hydrating and cleansing. It is gentle on the skin and deeply cleanses the dirt that accumulates during the day.
You may notice it has ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate. In Cetaphils case, the sodium lauryl sulfate that it contains is such a minute amount that it wont do any stripping or cause any other damage. Its concentration is not high enough to irritate your skin, and this cleanser will still work great for you!
What I love about this cleanser is that its straightforward, and it does its job entirely. Additionally, it wont hurt your wallet! Who doesnt love a bargain?
Cetaphil is one of those products that you know you can trust in your skincare regime. It is both non-comedogenic and non-irritating to the skin.
Since were all about simplifying, this cleanser is a great starting kit for everyone even if you need a reset from using too many products in your skincare routine.