Is your skin prone to reactions and inflammation? Skin sensitivity can manifest in many different ways including dry and flaky skin, redness and rosacea. If you have sensitive skin, then you’ll want to use skincare products that are extra gentle. Check out these sensitive skin moisturisers, serums, cleansers and more – tried and tested by EL editors and readers!
Cleansers, Serums and Moisturisers for Sensitive Skin
Luxe Botanics Camu Brightening Cleanser, $340
I have super-sensitive skin and have been using the same gentle cleanser for years, so I was hesitant about trying something new. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the effects of this Brightening Cleanser after a short time of using it. Made with vitamin C-rich camu camu berry extract from Brazil, the product works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, moisturise, boost collagen, soothe sensitive skin and diminish dark spots.
The cream is light, easy to apply, and has a mild scent that reminds me of a tropical spa. My skin feels clean and refreshed after applying and it hasn’t caused any irritation. What’s more, after a few weeks of using it in the morning and at night, I think my skin is looking clearer and brighter and my pores are less noticeable. It does leave my skin a little dry though, so I need to follow with a good moisturiser for optimum effects. Note: Luxe Botanics products are natural and organic, dermatologically tested, vegan and cruelty-free.
– Juliet Keys
Ignae Blue Light Serum, 30ml, $1,040
I’ve spent more time with my devices than I would have liked this year. So, when I heard about Ignae’s Blue Light Serum for skin regeneration, I was intrigued. The active ingredient here is calendula flower extract, which is rich in carotenoid compounds known for their anti-blue light and anti-inflammatory properties.
The serum is dispensed by a handy dropper, so you can control exactly how much you need – and a little goes a long way! For maximum benefit, massage a drop into cleansed skin and then moisturise. At first, I found the serum made my skin a little dry. So I reduced the amount and mixed with a little moisturiser; it works perfectly, leaving my skin super soft and hydrated.
Ignae hails from the Azores, a destination in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean that’s famed for its hot springs and volcanic beaches. It’s a clean beauty brand that has minimal impact on the environment and is free from all the usual nasties, so it’s ideal for sensitive skin.
– Kate Woodbury
Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Anti-Aging Body Cream, $970
My active lifestyle exposes me to various factors that cause skin ageing. So, I enjoy a rich body cream that hydrates the skin well. But most creams leave my skin feeling sticky or they have a fragrance that’s either overpowering or not to my liking. The first time I applied this body cream, I was surprised at how quickly my skin drank it up – it immediately felt smooth to the touch. Best part? It’s well suited to sensitive skin and it doesn’t leave a sticky sensation but rather a pleasant cooling one instead. After a few weeks of use, my skin had become more supple, softer to the touch and looked more elastic. Even the appearance of dry skin on challenging spots such as my elbows and back of my heels had improved. There wasn’t any fragrance I could detect – perfect! – and the pump made for easy application. I now look forward to using this daily.
– Patricea Chow
Other Skincare Products for Sensitive Skin
Bia Exfoliating Wash by Codex Beauty Labs, 125ml, $248
My skin always becomes a little dryer and more sensitive in HK’s cooler months. So the Codex Bia collection, especially formatted for dry skin, seemed just the ticket. Hailed as plant-powered skincare, the range is infused with native Irish botanical extracts.
I tried the Exfoliating Wash (with milk thistle, elderflower, grapefruit and jojoba) and loved the results. Just massage a small amount onto damp skin and the jojoba grains get straight to work, gently cleansing and polishing. There’s a zesty grapefruit fragrance that’s really lovely in the morning, and the product leaves my skin fresh and clean. Highly recommended!
– Kate Woodbury
Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Wash & Shampoo, $100
If you’re looking for bathroom products suitable for the whole family, you can’t go wrong with the Aveeno baby range. Specially formulated for babies’ delicate skin and great for sensitive skin, the products are gentle but effective and ideal for everyday use. My teenage daughter has been using the Wash & Shampoo for a while and likes that it’s nice and light and doesn’t irritate her skin or scalp. It has a pleasant fragrance that doesn’t linger and her hair feels really soft even with daily use. It also comes in a pump bottle for easy application and it lasts for ages.
– Juliet Keys
This article first appeared in the Summer 2022 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
