Sensitive skin is a common issue. In the United States, about 60–70% of women and 50–60% of men report some degree of skin sensitivity.
Research
suggests that sensitive skin is generally associated with dryness, a light complexion, and other dermatological conditions.
Sensitive skin can react to cosmetic products and environmental factors. This can cause irritation, redness, or allergic reactions.
Moisturizing can help by improving hydration, reducing irritation, and restoring the skin’s outer layer. It may also improve the efficiency of anti-inflammatory skin creams.
Learn more about sensitive skin here.
It can help to check ingredients lists carefully. Some common irritants and other ingredients to avoid include alcohol, fragrances, preservatives, parabens, and vitamin A and C.
Before using a new product, especially one with active ingredients or potential irritants, test it by applying a small amount to an area on the inner arm. Leave it there for 24 hours and check for signs of a reaction. If any reaction occurs, do not continue to use the product.
It can help to introduce new products to the skin gradually, starting with a small amount every other day. This allows the skin to build up a tolerance and reduces the risk of reactions.
It may also be a good idea to opt for products with naturally soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera, shea butter, and camomile extract.
People with skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis may need to be particularly careful when choosing skin care products. A doctor, such as a dermatologist, can provide recommendations or prescriptions.
Learn about choosing the best skin care products for different skin types.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.
Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturizer
This product contains no artificial perfumes, dyes, or chemicals, and each application provides 12 hours of hydration. It contains ingredients such as vitamin B5 and glycerin and does not leave a greasy residue.
This product is dermatologist tested and has a hypoallergenic formula. It is also vegan, and the company is certified cruelty-free by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, better known as PETA.
A 124-milliliter (ml) bottle of Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturizer is available online for $9.22.
CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
This lotion is quick-absorbing, lightweight, and not greasy. Each application provides 24 hours of hydration. It contains essential ceramides, which help make up the skin’s barrier.
The product is fragrance-free and allergy-tested. It has a National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, and it has been dermatologist-tested for use on sensitive, dry, and oily skin.
A 562-ml bottle of CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is available online for $17.78.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream with SPF
This cream contains SPF 30, and one application provides 24-hour hydration. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, its makers say.
This product is nongreasy, lightweight, and quick absorbing. It contains glacial glycoprotein and fountain plant for hydration and improved skin barrier function. The company adds that both of these ingredients are natural, renewable, and sourced sustainably.
A 50-ml pot of Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream with SPF is available online for $32.
Avene Tolerance Control Skin Recovery Balm
Each application hydrates the skin for 24 hours and may help calm and soothe sensitive skin. The company says that this balm reduces itchiness, burning, and tightness in the face, neck, and eye contour area.
The product is free from preservatives and approved by the National Eczema Association. The company says that it is safe for children to use.
A 40-ml tube of Avene Tolerance Control Skin Recovery Balm is available online for $35.
SheaMoisture Cannabis & Witch Hazel Skin Rescue Moisturizer
This moisturizer contains hemp from the cannabis plant but has no traces of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC. It also contains witch hazel and vitamin E to calm the skin.
It is unscented and cruelty-free. The company says that it may help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.
A 2-ounce (oz) pot of SheaMoisture Cannabis & Witch Hazel Skin Rescue Moisturizer is available online for $11.99.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
This cream is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, dry, and eczema-prone skin. It is fast-absorbing and nongreasy.
The company says that this product is suitable for children, dermatologist-tested, vegan, and free from:
- alcohol
- artificial fragrances
- colors
- parabens
- gluten
- nuts
- oil
- soy
A a 6-oz container of First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream is available online for $36.
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel
One application of this gel moisturizer provides 24 hours of hydration. It is lightweight and has a nongreasy feel. It also contains prebiotic oat to help soothe and nourish irritated, sensitive skin.
The hypoallergenic formula has been clinically tested and is free from fragrance, parabens, alcohol, and dyes. It is also noncomedogenic, meaning that it does not clog pores.
A 1.7-oz tube of Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel is available online for $17.13.
PCA Skin ReBalance Face Cream
This moisturizer is suitable for regular and sensitive skin. It is quick-absorbing and lightweight, and it contains borage seed, evening primrose oil, and vitamin E.
The company says that all its products are free from synthetic dyes and fragrances, parabens, and mineral oil. It does not perform or condone animal testing.
A 1.7-oz pot of PCA Skin ReBalance Face Cream is available online for $50.
BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream
This lightweight product is suitable for all skin types. It is fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested.
The ingredients include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, pomegranate sterols, ganoderma, and bifida extract. These ingredients help provide all-day hydration and protect and repair the skin, the company says.
A 1-oz pot of BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream is available online for $50.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+
This product is suitable for sensitive, dry, and extremely dry skin. The company says that it provides 48-hour hydration, is nongreasy, and is even suitable for children and babies.
The main ingredients include prebiotic thermal water, shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide. The product is free from fragrances and parabens, will not clog pores, and has been tested by dermatologists and pediatricians.
The National Eczema Association has approved this product.
A 400-ml bottle of La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ is available online for $19.99.
Generally, a person does not need to see a doctor about sensitive skin, but it may be a good idea to do so if:
- Sensitive skin affects daily life.
- Symptoms, such as irritation, do not get better after changing products.
- A new rash, lump, or swelling develops.
- Sensitivity or itchiness occurs all over the body.
Sensitivity is a common symptom of skin conditions such as eczema, allergies, and rosacea. Anyone who thinks that a health problem might be causing sensitivity should contact a healthcare professional.
Moisturizing is an important way to keep the skin healthy, and a person should choose a product that does not irritate the skin.
People with sensitive skin should avoid moisturizers that contain alcohol, parabens, fragrances, or preservatives. It is also a good idea to avoid products with strong active ingredients and chemicals. As always, reading customer reviews can help a person decide.