
Moisturizers That Work Wonders for Sensitive Skin
All skin needs moisture to look and feel its best. But those with sensitive skin may have a harder time finding the right moisturizers when it seems like almost every formulation causes issues with your already fragile face. So how to pick up right moisturizers for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin is a common issue but not a medical diagnosis by itself. The term generally refers to skin that is more prone to inflammation. The cause of the inflammation may differ for each person.
The environmental triggers like humidity, temperature, wind, and sun exposure can cause sensitive skin. However, lifestyle triggers such as using too many products with irritating ingredients or even spending time in chlorinated pools can also make skin more sensitive. When so-called “normal” skin is overexposed to these triggers over time, it can become sensitized.
People with generally sensitive skin type have local reactions to chemicals, dyes, and fragrances present in products that come into contact with their skin.
They may also get rashes or irritation from clothing or friction. Some people are allergic to certain substances and may react on their skin.
Sensitive skin may also be a symptom of an underlying condition. Finding ways to avoid potential triggers and soothe irritated skin may help people with sensitive skin find relief and improve their quality of life.
The main rule to follow for sensitive skin? Less is more. Since moisture is crucial for healthy skin, choosing the right moisturizer is even more important because it may be one of the only products your skin can tolerate.
How to Pick up a Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
Hypoallergenic moisturizers may reduce dryness without irritating sensitive skin. Some ingredients may work better than others, depending on the type of sensitivity.
For instance, people with very dry skin may respond well to ingredients such as urea or lactic acid.
Some simple oils, such as shea butter or coconut oil, may work better for others. It is always important to test a product on a small area of skin before applying it to the rest of the affected skin.
Regular use of moisturizers is a therapeutic cornerstone for sensitive skin management. As you go about choosing one, there are a few key things you need to look for, particularly when it comes to the ingredient list.
In general, moisturizers should be free of dyes, fragrances, and scents. The list of ingredients should be minimal — ideally under 10.
Here are a few key steps to picking the right formula for your skin:
Understand the Three Basic Categories of Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin
Moisturizers can be categorized into three main types:
- humectants, which bind water to the skin
- occlusive, which create a physical barrier on the skin
- emollients, which help restore the skin barrier
Ideally, moisturizers for sensitive skin should overlap between an emollient and an occlusive in order to provide necessary hydration and prevent outside elements from penetrating the skin. He says that a moisturizer with all three components would also work, but these formulations tend to have many more ingredients.
Check for Irritating Ingredients
Some moisturizers contain ingredients that can lead to either allergic reactions or irritant reactions.
For instance, propylene glycol is a common irritant used in many skin creams that should be avoided. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), propylene glycol is “found to provoke allergic reactions in patients with eczema and other skin allergies.”
In order to find a moisturizer that works for you, you’ll need to patiently vet products first by reading labels. You should also be willing to test out a few formulas before settling on the right one for your skin care routine.
Consider Two Moisturizers Best for Sensitive Skin
The purpose of moisturizers is to add hydration back to your skin by creating a barrier on the skin’s surface. This traps moisture in the skin and helps to soften, smooth, and hydrate your skin cells. Moisturizers have different consistencies and contain different ingredients based on the needs of the skin ID they’re treating.
You may want to consider using two different moisturizers in your skincare routine for the sensitive skin. A light moisturizer can be applied to the T-zone to help smooth skin cells without clogging pores. Conversely, a heavier product can be used on the cheeks and periphery of your face. you’re more likely to see positive results that leave your skin feeling clean, fresh, and rejuvenated.
Look for Moisturizers Containing These Ingredients
As you search for products for your combination skincare routine, look for moisturizers that contain these ingredients:
- Humectants: Your body produces these naturally to retain your skin’s moisture. They create a barrier on the surface of the skin that not only keeps water in but attracts water to the skin cells. They’re lightweight and don’t clog pores, so they’re ideal for combination skin. Look for products that contain vegetable source glycerin, betaine, propanediol, hyaluronic acid and it appears in the higher ranking which means the dosage is higher to give effective moisturizing effect.
- Antioxidants: While most of our antioxidants come from the foods we eat, they can be obtained through skincare products. Vitamin C brightens the skin and serves as an anti-inflammatory while vitamin E smoothens, moisturizes, and heals the skin. Antioxidants can be found naturally in pomegranate, chamomile, knotgrass extract, and even honey.
- Lamellar Emulsion: This emulsion structure mimics the lipid structure of the skin, creating a protective layer on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss and protect against the environment. Excessive sun exposure and age can weaken the skin barrier. Moisturizers with this ingredient can repair the skin barrier. and help restore your skin’s hydration. Keep in mind that lipids are oily by nature, so they are best used on areas of your face with dry skin.
Find the Right Moisturizers with Snowperk for Sensitive Skin
It’s important to find the right products that meet your specific needs. With Snowperk’s personalized product line, you’re sure to find the right moisturizers for your sensitive skin.
We can help you determine your skin ID and guide you in developing your perfect skincare routine.
Shop snowperk products to find the right moisturizers for your sensitive skin today!