8 Gentle Skincare Soothers for Sensitive Skin

It’s all fun and games when we try out new skincare and beauty products... until something goes wrong. And despite how much you love the way something feels or smells, there is no one-size-fits-all item, formula, or routine, out there. However, it will come as a relief to your sanity, and your skin, that a holy grail does exist for every skin type. No matter how sensitive. Whether you’ve tried a product that wasn’t quite suited for your skin concerns or you’ve just landed from a long-haul flight, or you’re going through those few days of the month when you’re especially susceptible to shit that goes on – you have your delicate moments. We’ve handled with extra care when trying out products with the sensitivity claim (so you won’t have to), to come up with a list of eight skin-safe formulas promising zero irritation, breakouts, dryness and inflammation.  

1. Aesop: Seeking Silence Facial Hydrator

The latest addition to the Australian brand’s skincare range is Aesop’s first hydrator specifically designed to soothe, calm and bring comfort to sensitive skin. Thanks to antioxidant actives like ginger root which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent; Bisabolol (an ingredient extracted from chamomile) which promotes the skin’s own healing process; and squalene which helps to condition the skin and replenishes our moisture barrier to make sure all the goodness is locked in. The woody, herbaceous fragrance is the final cherry on top. How to use: apply morning and evening after cleansing and toning. Gently massage into the face and neck.

2. Derm Institute: Anti-Oxidant Hydration Serum

Medical skincare experts, Derm Institute introduces its new and improved Anti-oxidant Hydration Serum. The reinvented formula delivers even higher efficacy than proven previously with an infusion of seven powerful natural antioxidants (including Malpighia fruit, white tea, grape seed) to repair and protect, and nano-gold for a surge of intense hydration, the advanced formula nourishes the skin by replacing lost moisture and collagen depletion. Its Super Hydration Complex (hyaluronic acid and ceramide complex) retains 1,000 times its weight in water acting like a moisture magnet so skin is plumped, smoothed and radiant. How to use: apply after toner and follow with lotion or cream for complete hydration. * Derm Institute’s new Anti-oxidant Hydration Serum will hit shelves in November, 2019  

3. Dr. Barbara Sturm: Anti-Pollotion Drops

It’s been a while since we’ve been blessed with German skincare scientist Dr. Barbara Sturm’s magic without trekking all the way to her spas in New York and Dusseldorf. While we get familiar with Molecular Cosmetics – her skincare line that has quickly gained a top shelf status, we stumbled upon her Anti-pollution drops. Two to three drops of this serum does the magic – protecting and promoting the skin barrier, combating the oxidation caused by pollutants and harmful UV, and shielding your skin from external stressors. The marine microbe extracts are responsible for neutralising airborne heavy metals while cocoa seed extracts fight against signs of digital ageing caused by blue light from our electronics – and we know all too well that there’s no exception and we’re all guilty of that. How to use: dispense a full pipette in the palm of your hand and apply to face, eye and neck area using a gentle patting motion after cleansing.  

4. First Aid Beauty: Ultra Repair BarriAir Cream

The best offence is a good defence, and as the brand and product name suggests, this good-for-all hydrating soufflé-textured cream helps to strengthen the skin’s protective outer layer when it has been compromised by harsh products and the environment. The lipids within bio-mimic the natural composition of the skin to help fortify and resume its healthy state. This airy cream is packed with hyaluronic acid to help stimulate and replenish moisture, colloidal oatmeal and antioxidant-rich vitamin E to calm, soothe and condition, and ceramides to strengthen the skin’s barrier. How to use: apply daily in the AM and PM, and evenly over a clean face or following a serum.  

5. Helena Rubinstein: Hero Re-PLASTY Age Recovery Night Cream

Known as the Black Bandage, Helena Rubinstein’s new evening skincare envelops damaged or concerned skin to help accelerate its recovery. Using medical technology to fuse together hyaluronic acid for hydration and glycyrrhizic acid with anti-inflammatory properties, reducing flaking and restoring suppleness to bring the repairing qualities of a band-aid. The derm-active blend is cold-pressed and Pro-Xylane is added to create that signature velvety yet featherlike bandage texture. The night cream is especially effective when worn overnight as the skin cells are regenerating, so you can wake up with nourished skin. How to use: apply every evening to perfectly cleansed skin. Apply over the face avoiding the eye contour.

6. Omorovicza: Cashmere Cleanser

Cleansing is the most crucial part of your routine (and if it’s not, it should be!). But nothing will leave you more paralysed with fear than stripping away all the good along with the bad when it comes to washing your face – and this is especially true for sensitive skin. The search for a powerful yet gentle cleanser probably ends with Omorovicza. Formulated for ultra-sensitive skin, this cleansing milk contains calendula extract with anti-inflammatory properties, apricot kernel oil rich in vitamin A and E to promote collagen production, shea butter to boost lipids. Say goodbye to daily grime and hello to your wonderfully clean and balanced fresh face. How to use: apply daily to damp skin. Massage well, then rinse thoroughly.

7. RéVive: Masque de Glaise

You’ll know all too well that clay masks are a no-no for temperamental skin. Though it can be clarifying, it is extremely drying. But before the thought sends you running in the opposite direction, take our word that this one’s a keeper. The delicate formula is said to clear impurities, tighten, lift, and to our surprise, hydrates. After letting it settle and harden on your face, the mask hardens and once washed off, the lines on your face are ironed out and instead of that tight dryness you’d normally feel after a mask, you’re left with radiant and supple skin. At the end of the day, because it is purifying, don’t overdo the frequency of use and follow up with other hydrating products every time to maintain that supple plump. How to use: Apply once to twice weekly. Put on liberally (at least 1/8 inch layer on cleanser skin) and leave for 15 to 20 minutes until mask hardens. Rinse well. Follow with serum and moisturiser.  

8. Tatcha: The Indigo Cream

There’s obvious credibility when you know something has a history that goes back two centuries. Taking beauty secrets from rediscovered Japanese manuscripts, Tatcha has built a strong cult following for its ancient recipes for the modern world. Designed especially for sensitive skin is the Eastern beauty brand’s Indigo cream, which promises that it’s so gentle that it can offer relief to even conditions like eczema, dermatitis, rosacea and allergies. The velvety texture is luxuriously cushiony, providing instant relief and comfort to the skin. Its natural Japanese Indigo extract calms and soothes irritated skin; Colloidal Oatmeal relieves itching, subdues redness and seals in moisture; while Sophora Japonica (extract from white flowers) pumps the skin with moisture. How to use: massage a pearl-sized amount gently onto face, neck and décolletage in upwards strokes. Use daily, morning and night. *Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance  

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