Skincare products for sensitive skin

Supercharge your skin’s hydration level by adding one of these moisture-boosting products to your daily regime. We review five products that are specially formulated to be gentle and suitable for all skin types – including those with sensitive skin.

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion (chamomile scent)

“I don’t use body lotion that much in Singapore. With the humidity, it doesn’t feel like you need it – well, at least not like you do in colder climates. I do use it from time to time when I remember, though – and I’m particularly trying to remember my décolletage as it’s looking a bit scraggy! But I have also noticed that I’ve had little raised dry bits on my legs, and even my arms have looked a bit scaly lately. I like Aveeno products anyway, so I was happy to review this product. What I did notice is that, compared to the other moisturisers that I would put on before bed, I could still feel this in the morning.

After a week of using it, my skin texture changed and the rough bits on my arms became softer. This product features a new chamomile scented, and although I’m not sure it smells like chamomile, it’s a relaxing and calming fragrance. Love it!” – Rebecca Bisset

Available at Mannings, Watsons Sasa and leading online retailers.

Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Hyaluronic Acid Serum

“I’ve always been a fan of Skinceuticals, especially after trying and loving the H.A Intensifier a couple of years ago. This clinical skincare brand offers advanced formulas that are backed by science, and most of the products are suitable for sensitive skin, which is something I struggle with. This hydrating and soothing gel serum is another bestseller from the brand and I can see why. Made with botanical ingredients like cucumber and thyme, the gentle and paraben-free formula is suitable for all skin types – especially those with irritated or sensitive skin.

After using it twice daily for two weeks, I’ve noticed that my acne flareups seem to have toned down a little. My existing acne marks aren’t completely erased, but they look smaller and less inflamed. I also love how lightweight it feels and how well it absorbs into my skin. For extra protection, I like to layer it with the Serum 10 (a vitamin C serum) in the morning.” – Anthia Chng

Available at skinceuticals.com.hk.

PAYOT Crème N°2 Nuage

PAYOT’s founder Nadia Payot was a groundbreaking female doctor of her generation. She saw the microbes and flora that exist as a protective layer on our skin, and how changes from stress or external pollution can cause redness and irritation. This brand was developed nearly 100 years ago and has cult status in many countries.

Crème N°2 series is specially formulated for sensitive skin, and is totally hypoallergenic. With frankincense to soothe, jasmine to reduce skin stress and a soft fragrance of rose and vanilla, this cream has a gentle and comfortable scent. The texture is light like whipped marshmallow; it feels rather rich when applied, but not oily at all. A protective barrier of zinc oxide seals in and protects the moisture. I definitely noticed a reduction in redness and an increase in hydration and firmness in my skin over just a few days of using this. Paired with the Crème N°2 anti-redness CC cream with SPF50+, I am ready to face the elements! – Danielle Rossett

Available at zalora.com.hk.

QuSome Moisture Rich Cream by b.glen

“I loved the way this cream glides on. It’s rich in texture without being heavy, and only a pea-sized amount is needed to moisturise the whole face. It boasts an age recover complex, which is a unique blend of ingredients to help firm up the skin and boost elasticity – exactly what I need at the moment. I’ve been using this in the day, but I really love how my skin feels in the morning after using it the night before. My skin seems softer and brighter, and I feel that it hydrates perfectly so that my makeup application is smoother.” – Jacqui Young, Integrated Communications Manager

Available at bglen.hk.

Sunday Riley Ice Ceramide Moisturizing Cream

“As part of my lockdown routine, I’ve started a new skincare regimen, using this cream every morning and evening. The cruelty-free product is described as rich but lightweight, but this wasn’t my personal experience. Rich, yes, but it’s not exactly lightweight. However, once I got the amount for my face just right, my skin felt replenished – like it had been fed. It took a few days to hit that sweet spot, but once I found it, I loved how it made my face feel. I’ve even received a few compliments from friends – high praise indeed for this skincare hobo!” – Kate Marsden, Editor

Available at sephora.hk.

This article first appeared in the June 2020 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.