My Skincare Routine For Dry, Sensitive Skin Types
If you can relate to having sensitive or stressed skin that is prone to being red, rash prone, reactive, textured or dry then this routine will probably speak to you.
People who have sensitive or reactive skin don’t always know what products they love, but they quickly learn what products they simply cannot tolerate.
In this routine our Acquisitions Specialist Tamara Cole shares with us the sensitive skincare products that have helped to calm and nurture her skin.
How do I repair my skin’s barrier?
Sensitive skin flare ups or reactivity is often related to having an impaired barrier.
The skin barrier is a number of complex layers that help to protect and support the skin. When the barrier is impaired or damaged it can often result in dryness, flakiness or irritation.
Impairment can be caused by lack of protection from environmental factors, which can cause dehydration, as well as using skincare products that don’t suit your skin.
The best way to repair the barrier is by upping your hydration and using calming products designed to support and replenish the barrier. You can also help protect the barrier with a good SPF!
Tam’s step-by-step guide to building up your skin barrier:
Step 1: A gentle makeup remover
Step 1: A gentle makeup remover
Start your routine with a gentle makeup remover like the . Very sensitive skin can even react to some of the minerals and metals in tap water, so if this is the case for you then this is an excellent alternative when cleansing the face. This formula is also superb at removing makeup and impurities. Simply dampen a cotton round with this product and swipe all over the face.
Step 2: A calming cleanser
Step 2: A calming cleanser
Follow up by cleansing your skin with the . This calming formula clears away dirt and debris without stripping the skin, with a creamy consistency dry skin types love. Simply apply the cleanser to wet or dry skin, massage in and remove with water or a muslin cloth.
Step 3: A hydrating B serum
Step 3: A hydrating B serum
The is a game changing product that locks in moisture, reduces redness and improves the barrier using a combination of Hyaluronic acid and Niacinamide. Apply several pumps of this lightweight, fast absorbing serum to the skin after cleansing both morning and night.
Step 4: A hybrid and innovative exfoliator
Step 4: A hybrid and innovative exfoliator
Many exfoliating treatments are too harsh and stripping for sensitive skin. The hydrates as it lightly exfoliates, simultaneously reinforcing the skin’s barrier while offering results similar to a 20% Glycolic treatment. Apply 4-6 drops twice daily on the face, neck and chest.
Step 5: A glowy, moisturising sunscreen
Step 5: A glowy, moisturising sunscreen
While many people with sensitive skin find chemical sunscreens irritating, Tamara finds the gentle enough for her sensitive skin. This slightly tinted sunscreen can also work as a moisturiser and a primer, working brilliantly under makeup. Apply 2-3 pumps to your face daily.
Step 6: A sleep mask that’s like a big hug from a friend
Step 6: A sleep mask that’s like a big hug from a friend
As a sometimes treat, try the . This overnight mask is a huge staff favourite that is filled with a blend of hydrating ingredients such as Argan Oil and Shea Butter. You can leave this mask on for 20 minutes before rinsing it off, or leave it on to truly rescue your barrier from the clutches of dryness and dehydration.
Repair Tips For Sensitive Skin:
- If you find that your skin is sensitive to tap water, try cleansing your skin initially with a gentle cleansing micellar water.
- Those with sensitive skin might want to go easy on products that promote cell turnover, like retinol or stronger chemical exfoliants. Our advice is to stick with a gentle formula that hydrates as it exfoliates like Lactic Acid, or Tamara’s pick the Skinceuticals Retexturing Activator.
This routine was transcribed by India Williams
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