Tips for Finding Sensitive Skin Products That Work

If you have sensitive skin, you know it can be challenging to find products that meet your unique requirements. But don’t fret; there are plenty of solutions out there that will work for you.

To help you narrow down your search, we asked dermatologists for their top tips for finding sensitive skin products that work. Plus, they shared which ingredients to avoid so as not to cause further irritation.

Avoid Coconuts

Coconut oil has long been celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and skin softening effects. According to dermatologists and natural beauty enthusiasts alike, it can reduce redness and inflammation, helping combat eczema or chronically dry skin conditions.

Coconut oil should not be used on sensitive skin as it can clog pores and lead to breakouts in oily or acne-prone complexions. Instead, opt for a lightweight natural oil that hydrates without clogging pores.

If you have a coconut allergy, it is essential to eliminate all foods and products containing coconut from your diet. While this may be difficult, the only way to ensure you do not experience an allergic reaction is by abstaining from them altogether.

Additionally, those with coconut allergies should avoid skincare and haircare products that contain coconut-derived ingredients. Some common ones are Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, and Coconut diethanolamide. These chemicals have been known to cause itchy, blistering rashes in those who are intolerant of coconut.

Look for Fragrance Free

Fragrance is a commonly found ingredient in skin care and beauty products. It can be problematic for those with sensitive skin. It may irritate their skin, leading to breakouts or itching and reddening.

Additionally, it may exacerbate other skin conditions like rosacea or eczema. Furthermore, it has the potential to contribute to breathing difficulties like a runny nose or congestion. It has been known to trigger asthma flare-ups by making it difficult to breathe.

When trying to avoid scented products, be sure to read the ingredients list carefully and confirm that your chosen items do not contain any synthetic fragrances. This is especially important if you’re searching for a body wash or face wash that doesn’t have any scents in it.

Finding a skin care product that works for you requires checking its label for “fragrance free” or “all natural.” Additionally, read ingredient labels carefully. Some ingredients may be labeled as natural or organic but actually contain synthetic additives that could be hazardous when applied to sensitive skin.

The good news is that there are plenty of skincare and beauty products without fragrances, making them gentle on sensitive skin. Since these items come in various formulas, research which one works best for your individual needs.

A suitable option is castile soap, a natural option with a light fragrance that does not cause irritation or dryness. Castile liquid soap is non-toxic and packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals that can improve your skin’s health, add moisture, and help prevent common skin conditions.

It’s essential to remember that fragrance-free doesn’t necessarily equal unscented, as this term is unregulated in the United States. Thus, even products labeled as “unscented” might still contain some form of scent either to mask an unpleasant odor.

Look for Natural Ingredients

If your skin is sensitive, there are plenty of natural ingredients that can help. The key is knowing which ones will benefit you and which ones may irritate or worsen symptoms.

One of the benefits of natural products is that you can test them on a small area of skin first to see how they feel. This helps avoid products that irritate your skin. Furthermore, natural ingredients often eliminate common allergens like gluten and certain acids which are highly irritating for some individuals.

Start by searching for cleansers that don’t contain sulfates or other surfactants which strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, opt for formulas that are oil or cream based. This will keep skin hydrated and balanced, which can make all the difference between dry and itchy skin.

Another beneficial ingredient you should look for is hyaluronic acid, which naturally occurs in the body and acts as a moisturizing agent. It has become widely used in skin care products due to its anti-aging benefits.

Finally, seek a product that contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that shields your cells from damage. Not only that, but vitamin E also has been known to be highly hydrating and aid in wound healing.

Plant-based ingredients can be beneficial in your skincare regimen. Edelweiss extract is one such example. It has powerful anti-oxidants that help regulate inflammation levels on skin cells while also replenishing moisture levels and strengthening its barrier function.

Tea tree oil is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help soothe skin issues like acne and eczema. Be sure to only use a few drops at a time in order to avoid irritation. You can find tea tree oil in many over-the-counter products or you can make your own at home by mixing a few drops with water before applying directly onto your skin.

Look for Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a plant renowned for its healing properties.It’s one of the best natural solutions to many common skin issues. From acne to sunburns, aloe vera helps speed up skin repair while decreasing redness. But aloe vera doesn’t just work on sunburns. You can also use it on cuts, scrapes, rashes or dry flaky skin!

To maximize the therapeutic effects of aloe vera gel, you need to choose one with high quality aloe vera gel that is infused with antioxidants, vitamins, amino acids and minerals. Furthermore, be sure to steer clear of ingredients which could irritate you such as alcohol or fragrances.

Aloe vera gels come in many different formulations. Be aware that not all aloe vera products are created equal. Some contain thickeners and preservatives which may strip your skin of moisture.

It is essential to find an aloe vera product that contains the actual plant, so you can reap all of its benefits. This way, you won’t just be getting what’s on top but the full effects of the gel itself.

When purchasing aloe vera products, look for ones with the International Aloe Science Council seal on their label. This guarantees that the item has been tested and confirmed to contain pure aloe vera.

Quality aloe vera gel should have an ingredients list free from artificial colors, parabens and mineral oils. Furthermore, it should dissolve quickly without leaving behind a sticky residue that can irritate your skin.

Thankfully, there are a few brands that provide superior aloe vera gels. Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel is one such example. It combines seaweed extract with aloe vera juice to soothe your skin without alcohol, making it suitable for all skin types.

Do you have any go-to tips for those with sensitive skin? Share them with us in the comments.