The 17 Best Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin, According to Dermatologists
If a stinging sensation strikes your skin upon application of your nightly lotions and potions, it’s a signal that you need two things: a moisturizer for sensitive skin and a break from irritating skincare ingredients like exfoliators and acids. Whether you naturally have sensitive skin, or your barrier is over-treated and in need of repair, a calming sensitive skin moisturizer can do wonders to bring you back to center. “Having an occasional sensitization to a product can occur to many people, but an ongoing sensitivity to products and persistent symptoms like redness, irritation, or itching, may indicate a possible underlying condition,” says Michael Kassardjian, D.O., board-certified dermatologist in LA, such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. Sensitivity usually also comes with dryness because “having a thinner or damaged skin barrier allows moisture to escape more easily,” Dr. Kassardjian explains. Mature skin may also be more sensitive because the skin barrier thins with age, he adds, which may mean you need to switch up products every few years. If you’re in the market for a new cream to restore your skin’s peace, keep scrolling for the best moisturizers for sensitive skin to add to your daily routine, according to dermatologists and reviews. Vanicream is a great option for very sensitive skin because it’s incredibly gentle, says Dr. Kassardjian. Consider it a no-brainer for what it doesn’t contain: common irritants, such as dyes, fragrances, parabens, lanolin, and formaldehyde. Instead, it “contains ceramides to help hydrate and moisturize skin,” he adds. Plus, it has even earned a stamp of approval from the National Eczema Association. With tens of thousands of rave reviews on Amazon, testers say it’s a winner, too. “I have very sensitive skin and can NOT tolerate many lotions/creams, but this one is very nice and not greasy,” explained one reviewer. Active ingredients: Glycolic acid Free of: Dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, botanical extracts, gluten