Protect your skin from the sun
If you have sensitive skin, you might be hesitant to wear certain sunscreens for fear that they may make you break out or cause irritation. However, sunscreen is your skin’s best line of defense, especially for those with sensitive skin. “If skin is burned or damaged from the sun, it only becomes more prone to being sensitive,” warns Kelly Bickle, MD, dermatologist. She recommends sticking to sunscreens that are physical blockers (as opposed to chemical blockers), like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as they are less irritating to the skin and also have a broader spectrum of protection from the sun. EltaMD UV Pure Broad-Spectrum SPF 47, $25, fits the bill and is highly recommended by dermatologists.
Skip hot water
Hopping into a hot shower or cleansing skin with steamy water may feel good, but it can be very damaging to all skin types, not just sensitive. “Hot water can cause dryness and exacerbate redness,” Schlessinger says. “The best way to get skin clean without causing further irritation is actually by cleansing with lukewarm water.” This goes for baths, too.
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Relieve irritation the right way
If you find yourself with itchiness or irritation, avoid scratching at all costs. It might provide relief in the moment, but it will only lead to additional irritation, or even infection, soon after. Instead. Schlessinger suggests soothing the irritation with a comforting product, like FixMySkin Healing Body Balm with 1% Hydrocortisone, $16, and Vanicream HC 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream, $9.95. “Both products contain soothing and healing ingredients to moisturize and heal skin without causing further irritation,” he says.
Choose your cleanser carefully
Even sensitive skin needs to be cleansed twice a day—ideally in the morning and in the evening. However, it’s important that you choose your cleanser carefully. An improper formula can leave skin feeling irritated and itchy. “Choose a hydrating cleanser that won’t over-strip skin, like LovelySkin Luxe Gentle Cream Cleanser, $32,” Schlessinger says. “The soothing formula removes makeup and other impurities while also keeping skin hydrated with olive oil and meadowfoam seed extracts.”
Never, ever skip moisturizer
Since sensitive skin is often indicative of a compromised barrier, it’s very important that it remains hydrated. “Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer, $50, is an excellent option, as it features a delivery system that provides moisture throughout the day,” Schlessinger says. “Shea and mango butters, avocado oil and glycerin provide much-needed hydration while also protecting skin from free radical damage.” If you need something a little richer, he suggests trying SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, $128, which provides deep hydration with lipids, ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids while also repairing skin’s natural moisture barrier.
