%20copy%202.jpg "6 Best Moisturisers for Sensitive Skin, Per A Beauty Writer")
“Packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, its main aim is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, while also repairing a tired skin barrier. As well as a glorious texture and feel on the skin, it also smells divine.
“I’ll definitely continue using this moisturiser, but might use it as a night cream instead, as I like my day cream to be slightly on the lighter side. Nevertheless, the skin benefits are too good to pass up.”
6. Best for Calming Redness: Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Cream
Why I loved it: “Like all of Dermalogica’s products, the Stabilizing Repair Cream comes with years of science-backed research and rigorous testing by dermatologists. The product aims to re-build that delicate skin barrier that, once compromised, can lead to serious sensitivity issues. It’s rich in texture, sinks in beautifully and leaves skin feeling ultra-cared for, making it a great night cream – but I also found it lightweight enough to use during the day.
“It’s formulated to relieve discomfort thanks to its ceramide-building complex, which helps replenish essential skin lipids and reinforce the skin barrier, reducing moisture loss and improving resilience over time. If you suffer with redness or irritation, soothing ingredients like cica, allantoin and bisabolol – derived from calming chamomile – provide additional comfort and repair.”
Your Sensitive Skin FAQs, Answered:
What causes dry or sensitive skin on the face?
One of the most common causes of dry or sensitive skin, according to Dr Nabil Jetha, is chronic inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction.
“We’re seeing more people unintentionally sensitising their skin through over-treatment, whether that’s excessive exfoliation, at-home devices, frequent laser treatments or layering too many active ingredients at once,” she explains. “Environmental stressors such as UV exposure, pollution, poor sleep and stress can also increase inflammation within the skin. In some cases, sensitivity may be linked to underlying genetic factors, but very often it’s acquired through modern skincare habits. When the skin barrier becomes compromised, transepidermal water loss increases, leaving the skin more reactive, dehydrated and prone to redness.”
What are the best ingredients for someone with sensitive skin?
“Those with sensitive skin should focus on ingredients that help to support the skin barrier, including ceramides and ingredients that help minimise the potential for dryness, such as humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Other ingredients that can be helpful include niacinamide, which helps to soothe the skin and reduce redness and inflammation,” says Dr Marisa Garshick.
What should you not use on sensitive skin?
“Avoid using harsh ingredients and physical or chemical exfoliants that can compromise the skin’s natural barrier,” advises Lorna Hura, Sisley’s Head of Training. “Artificial fragrances and over-active ingredients can also damage and inflame sensitive skin. Additionally, you should avoid layering too many different products and keep your routine simple while sensitised.”
Dr Jetha echoes these sentiments. “Over-cleansing is another major issue, particularly with foaming cleansers that strip away the skin’s natural lipids and further weaken the barrier,” she says. “It’s also worth being cautious with trending skincare products on social media, especially DIY treatments or heavily fragranced formulas marketed as “natural”, as natural ingredients can still be highly irritating. If the skin is actively inflamed, simplifying the routine and focusing on barrier repair is usually far more effective than layering multiple active ingredients at once.”
How to choose the best moisturiser for sensitive skin
Dr Kemi Fabusiwa, skincare expert and doctor, recommends following three main tips.
- “Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products,” she begins. “Fragrances can be a common source of irritation for sensitive skin. Opt for products labeled as fragrance-free or hypoallergenic to minimise the risk of adverse reactions.”
- Next, “avoid harsh chemicals,” she implores. “Ingredients like alcohol, artificial colours, and sulfates can be harsh on sensitive skin. Read the ingredient list and avoid products that
contain these potential irritants.” - Finally, she says it’s important to opt for gentle formulas. “Look for moisturisers specifically formulated for sensitive skin. These products typically have fewer ingredients and are designed to be gentle and non-irritating.