STYLE

You dream about trying the hottest viral skincare trends (hi, Hero patches), using *all* the facemasks on self-care Sundays and slathering on the sweetest-smelling body lotions and potions...but you've got sensitive skin. For you, those products just hit different—and not in a good way. Had enough of dealing with redness and irriation? We have the expert advice you need to save face. 

The Deal with Sensitive Skin Types

"People with sensitive skin have a genetically thinner or compromised skin barrier, which makes them more intolerant to factors that normal skin is protected from," explains dermatologist Dr. Luigi Polla, founder of Alchimie Forever. 

Some girls are just born sensitive sweeties, like those with rosacea and eczema (these conditions are usually genetic and can be triggered by certain product ingredients, stress, sweat and even changes in the weather). 

Others are affected by what they put *on* their skin. "Ingredients like hydroxy acids, some forms of vitamin C and retinoids can cause irriation in sensitive skin," says dermatologist Dr. Hadley King. Some materials like synthetic fabric and wool can cause your skin to have a negative reaction, as well as everyday products like laundry detergent and soap.

Do You Actually Have Sensitive Skin?

To be clear, "sensitive skin" isn't an actual clinical diagnosis, just a sign that your skin tends to be reactive to environmental things (like weather) or topical treatments (like beauty products).

That said, all derms know the "my skin is sooo sensitive" complaints: "Itching, burning, redness, tingling, flaking, scaling, tightness or dryness—or some combination," says Dr. Polla. But not everyone who gets redness or any form of irritaion has sensitive skin. It's possible that your skin is just sensitized. So what's the difference?

"Sensitized skin can be reversed by stopping exposure to irritants," explains Dr. Polla. Basically, if you overuse intense ingredients, your skin will start to feel irritated. The fix? Simply listening to your face. Dr. Polla advises: "If a product causes acne, breakouts, redness, tightness or irritation, stop using it. That's your skin signaling that the product is not right for you."

Take Products for a Test Drive

You come home from the store, super excited to slick on the newest wonder serum. Stop right there: If your skin is prone to temper tantrums, it's time to do a trial run first.

"I recommend a patch test on the inner arm," says Dr. King. The thin skin by the crease of your elbow is similar to facial skin—and less visible if you happen to get a rash.

"Apply a dime-sized amount of the new product you want to try twice daily for a week," Dr. King recommends. Keep an eye out for itchy, rash, red or scaly skin. If your arm stays clear, try it on your face. And if you have a negative reaction? Yep, stop using it and give your skin a rest.

Your Calm Skin Routine

To keep your skin in check, a simple, soothing skincare lineup is essential. The right routine for a sensitive skin type is a minimalist one. This is one instance where less is more. 

Dr. Polla recommends sticking to the basics: a mild cleanser like Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser ($12, amazon.com) and a nourishing moisturizer—one with SPF during the day and one without for nighttime (we like CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, $12, drugstores).

When choosing your daily SPF, Dr. King suggests opting for mineral sunscreens, which tend to be less irritating than those packed with chemicals. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (check out Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunscreen Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 60+, $9, target.com).

If you feel like your skin is stable enough to add in an extra active ingredient, Dr. King says you can include an antioxidant serum in the morning like La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum ($42, ulta.com), which can help calm your complexion. 

When In Doubt, Add More Moisture 

Other ways to get your skin to chill out? Skip the steaming hot baths (which can dry out skin) and opt for warm(ish) showers. Then, apply moisutizer from head to toe when your skin is still damp to help the formula really penetrate.

Applying hand cream right after washing your hands helps you avoid itchy, cracked skin (we're never without Aveda Hand Relief Moisturizing Creme, $10, aveda.com).

At night, run a humidifier in your bedroom to limit moisture loss, advises Dr. King. Wake up to a cold and windy day? Shield your skin as much as possible when dealing with extreme temps. "Hats and gloves are your friends," says Dr. King.

Finally, carry a fragrance-free moisturizer with you to reapply whenever (and wherever) you need it. Your skin will thank you.

Your Sensitive Skin Checklist

Buy: Cica, aloe, bisabolol, oats, Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, glycerin, squalane, castor oil

Pass: Alcohol, menthol, alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids, retinol, fragrance, essential oils, exfoliants, sulfates

Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know that this story originally ran in our December/January 2022 issue. Want more? Read the print mag for free *today* when you click HERE. 

All GIFs via GIPHY | Slider image via @shayrudolph on Instagram

by Erin Reimel | 1/29/2022