Caring for Sensitive Skin and Dry Skin

Sensitive skin and dry skin on the face tend to go hand in hand. Skin isn’t sensitive by nature; the sensitivity is usually caused by some other imbalance. Dryness, usually due to the skin’s inability to retain water, is the most common reason for sensitive skin. Sensitive skin and dry skin on the face can be difficult to treat with skin care products, especially since many ingredients can be irritants to skin that is sensitive. However, there are soothing and moisturizing skin care ingredients that are effective at treating sensitive skin without irritating it.

Here are our dos and don’ts for properly taking care of dry, sensitive skin:

Avoid astringents and drying ingredients

Since dryness can lead to skin sensitivity and make already sensitive skin more sensitive, you’ll want to avoid using ingredients, like alcohols and acids, that will dry out your skin. If you do use an alpha hydroxy acid or AHA, such as glycolic acid, to exfoliate, do so sparingly and be sure to follow its application with a good moisturizer.

Don’t wash your face with hot water

Hot water can strip your face of its natural oils, causing the skin to dry out further. Instead, wash with warm or room temperature water and a mild cleanser.

Don’t over-wash your face

Washing your face too often can also dry out your skin and irritate it. We recommend washing once a day for those with dry and sensitive skin.

Don’t use abrasive scrubs

If your skin is sensitive or dry, harsh scrubs with beads, sea salt, or sugar can irritate and damage your skin. Instead, consider exfoliating gently with a warm washcloth, or using an AHA once a week.

Wash daily, followed by moisturizer

As we stated in addressing over-washing, we recommend those with dry, sensitive skin wash their face daily, ideally at night to clear the face of makeup and clean the pores before sleeping. Always follow cleansing with a nourishing moisturizer with natural oils and soothing ingredients to keep your face hydrated.

Use soothing ingredients like chamomile and aloe

Chamomile and aloe are renowned for their skin-soothing properties. Aloe in particular has been a trusted ingredient for treating burns and irritation for many years. These ingredients will help to calm the irritation that has already occurred on your skin.

Use serums with vitamin C

Vitamin C is a highly effective skin care ingredient that is also mild on the skin. Many vitamin C serums come in various strengths, as well, making it easy to find the right one for your skin.

Read our article on The Top 5 Vitamins for Skin Care for more on vitamin C and other skin care vitamins.

Natural humectants like aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid

This is not a comprehensive plan to take care of your sensitive skin or dry skin on your face; everyone’s skin is different. So, you may need to try different products and skin care methods to find the right fit for your skin. However, the advice in this guide should provide you a strong foundation for caring for your sensitive skin.