A complete product guide for sensitive skin
"Sensitive skin doesn't have an objective definition medically," explains Dr. Kim, global dermatologist for The Body Shop. "It's the perception of stinging, burning, itching, accompanied by dryness and redness, either on it's own or after applying products," she says. Raise your hand if you just thought to yourself "all of the above!" ...ugh! It may not have a definition, but those of us with skin that reacts on a dime can definitely self-diagnose.
By Dr. Kim's account, you're not alone; she says globally about 40% of the population is plagued by issues like these. Fortunately, there's a crop of gentler products specifically formulated for sensitive skin. The innovations are many, so we've rounded-up 8 of the best on the market right now, to help hydrate and calm skin without irritating.
The makeup remover
A must-have for anyone with sensitive skin is a gentle makeup remover, which will wipe away impurities and makeup in just one swipe. Best of all, this one uses honey extract to soothe while it cleans.
Make Up For Ever Sens'Eyes Waterproof Sensitive Eye Cleanser, $30, sephora.ca
The facial cleanser
We're big fans of Kiehl's soap-free cleanser, specifically created to meet the needs of sensitive skin. Its PH-balanced formula removes impurities while retaining skin's moisture and lipids to clean and refresh.
Kiehl's Centella Skin-Calming Facial Cleanser, $43, kiehls.ca
The facial brush
It may seem counter-intuitive to take a brush to sensitive skin, but it can help. The right facial brush could make a big difference in how well the products you use can be absorbed into the skin. Try a silicone version like this that uses T-sonic technology to gently deep clean and reduce the signs of aging.
Foreo LUNA For Ultra-Sensitive Skin, $199, sephora.ca
The scrub
Created to soothe even the most sensitive skin types, this hydrating vegetarian cream uses finely ground almond shells and honey to gently buff away dead skin for an extra-soft finish.
The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey Gently Exfoliating Cream Scrub, $22, thebodyshop.ca
The primer
Greek yogurt is the star ingredient in this primer from Korres. Formulated with 26% of the hydrating agent, and three types of hyaluronic acid, the silky smooth treatment primes sensitive skin and delivers heavyweight hydration.
Korres Greek Yoghurt Smoothie Priming Moisturizer, $55, beautyboutique.ca
The sheet mask
A K-beauty mega-hit, the famous aqua bomb now comes in mask form. Cleanse and tone skin, and then apply this sheet mask for 10-15 minutes for maximum hydration and soothing.
Belif Aqua Bomb Sheet Mask, $11, The Face Shop
The shower foam
Gentle cleansing meets shea butter and vanilla in this ultra lightweight shower foam by Dove, which replenishes nutrients for skin that looks and feels healthy. Plus, it's available in three fresh scents.
Dove Shower Foam Shea Butter with Warm Vanilla Foaming Body Wash, $7, walmart.ca
The lip savior
Treat sensitive lips to this natural Vitamin-E packed cream designed to soothe and soften without silicone or paraffin. The non-greasy formula makes it a real win.