Gentle care: top 7 creams for sensitive skin

Expert: Kiryakova Anna Vladimirovna

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Any skin needs care, especially sensitive skin: it needs to be nourished, moisturized, maintained tone, soothed and prevent irritation. Creams for this type of epidermis are subject to increased hypoallergenic requirements. But you should remember: skin sensitivity can be caused by various factors, so the same cream is suitable for one person, but will not have a good effect on the skin of another. We present a rating of the 18 best creams for sensitive skin in two price segments - inexpensive and premium.

Signs of sensitive facial skin

Sensitive skin is indicated by its vulnerability. Because the sebaceous glands produce little sebum (sebum), the skin is not hydrated enough and cannot protect itself. Therefore, any impact can lead to a negative result.

It is important to understand that sensitivity does not indicate skin type. Dry, oily, normal or combination skin can also be prone to irritation. Moreover, contrary to stereotypes, sensitivity is much more common in people with fatty skin types, as well as in people with allergies. This problem is often observed in people with light or red hair.

Comparison table of characteristics

Causes of sensitive facial skin

The main reason for excessive skin irritability is disturbances in the functioning of protective mechanisms, internal problems and improper care:

• The epidermis layer retains moisture and prevents dryness. However, if its operation is impaired, the barrier function of the layer deteriorates, which increases sensitivity.
• Sebum, which is secreted by the sebaceous glands, forms a lipid film that makes the skin softer and protects from damage. But if little sebum is produced, this leads to an effect that is already familiar to us: a decrease in the protective barrier and irritation. However, if there is too much sebum, its components (like fatty acids) cause irritation.
• Normally, the acid-base balance of facial skin (pH) is 5.5. This indicator is supported by sweat glands, which also perform a protective function. Sweat rids the skin of impurities, germs and other external influences. But if the balance is disturbed, the epidermis is damaged and sensitivity becomes higher.
• In addition, sensitivity can be a consequence of internal problems. Lack of vitamins, hormonal imbalance, constant stress, and serious illnesses negatively affect the skin.
• Your lifestyle also reflects on your skin. Smoking, addiction to alcoholic beverages, coffee, and trips to the solarium should be avoided.
• Other external factors also affect the condition of the skin. Cosmetics with retinoids, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) increase irritation and dryness. The same applies to products with some herbal ingredients: rosemary, calendula, sandalwood oil.

The best creams for 2022

To choose the right cream for sensitive skin, you need to follow the advice of cosmetologists, and also study the rating, which is based on reviews from real users.

Products from Asian brands

The Saem Urban Eco Harakeke Fresh

The cosmetic product was developed in Korea and is a representative of a whole line designed specifically for the care of sensitive skin. The main active ingredient is New Zealand flax extract, which perfectly soothes, moisturizes and softens. Thanks to nutrition with a huge amount of minerals, the skin acquires a healthy and beautiful appearance.

The protective functions of the epidermis are restored, so the skin begins to better resist various irritants. The composition includes hyaluronic acid and chondroitin, due to which the epidermis is moisturized not only on the surface layers, but also in the deep ones. Saturation with moisture allows you to straighten out all the small folds, which significantly improves the relief of the skin.

Already after the first use of a cosmetic product, metabolic processes in cells begin to accelerate, including the production of elastin and collagen, which are responsible for elasticity.

The cream has a slight drawback; it leaves a slightly sticky film. However, if the product is used as a base for makeup, it is not felt at all. The estimated cost of the cream is 1,700 rubles per 60 ml jar.

cream The Saem Urban Eco Harakeke Fresh

Advantages:

• cream from the sensitive skin care series;
• can be applied under makeup;
• the jar lasts for quite a long period;
• the product restores protective functions.

Flaws:

• The kit does not include a special spatula for removing cream from the container;
• a slight sticky film remains on the face.

Mizon All in one snail repair cream

The cosmetic is intended for sensitive oily skin. It contains snail mucus, which has been famous for its nutritional and healing properties for many centuries. The concentration of this substance in the cream is very high - 92%, so we can safely say that the product is similar to a salon massage with snails. However, it is worth considering that this is why the cream can only be used after consultation with a cosmetologist.

Characteristic signs for the use of Korean cosmetics are oily skin and a tendency to acne. Snail mucus is also great for stretch marks, burns, scars and even scars. However, you should not count on correcting old and deep injuries.

Snail mucus contains mucin, which accelerates the regeneration process in the skin, which helps even out the texture and tone of the skin. This component also regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands, so fewer and fewer rashes appear on the face.

Snail mucus has the properties of a natural antibiotic, which has a beneficial effect on the microflora of the skin. The remaining ingredients of the cream help rejuvenate the epidermis and deeply saturate it with moisture and nutrients. The product slightly lightens the skin due to the presence of birch sap.

The manufacturer positions the cream as a product for oily skin types, so its main goal is to regulate the functioning of the sebaceous glands. In some cases, this leads to a feeling of tightness or dryness of the skin. To avoid this, it is recommended to additionally apply a moisturizer. From the reviews it follows that this effect is observed in rare cases.

Mizon All in one snail repair cream

Advantages:

• correction of scars;
• nutrition of the epidermis and regulation of the sebaceous glands;
• mucus concentration 92%;
• noticeable improvement in texture and complexion.

Flaws:

• in rare cases, tightness or dryness may occur.

Restoring anti-stress cream for face Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Cream

This product is intended for irritated skin, for its rapid recovery. The active components here are Asian centrella, panthenol, chlorophyll and plant complex. Thanks to these substances, the skin calms down, regeneration processes are accelerated, and inflammation is reduced.

The rich composition of the cream allows you to restore the protective functions of the skin, saturate it with nutrients and generally improve the functioning of the epidermis. After using a cosmetic product, the skin perfectly resists such unfavorable factors as sun rays, wind, and changes in humidity. The cream is suitable not only for restoring irritated skin, but also for daily care, especially after certain cosmetic procedures.

Due to the fact that the components enhance regeneration processes, scars and scars on the face are smoothed out. The cream can be applied under makeup, and its moisturizing effect lasts throughout the day. The estimated cost of the cream is 6 thousand rubles per 50 ml.

Restoring anti-stress cream for face Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Cream

Advantages:

• correction of scars;
• long-term hydration;
• absorbs well without creating a sticky film or shine;
• protective functions are enhanced.

Flaws:

• not detected.

The best creams from the pharmacy

The peculiarity is that these cosmetic products are sold only through pharmacy chains. You won't find such creams in a regular supermarket.

Pharmacy cosmetics are both a cosmetic and a pharmaceutical product. Before going on sale, all products are thoroughly tested and undergo mandatory certification (the requirements, by the way, are much stricter than for conventional cosmetics).

The packaging must indicate the full composition of the product and for what skin type it is recommended to use it. The ingredients are usually of plant and natural origin, without artificial colors and, importantly, antibiotics.

Pharmacy creams are a therapeutic product that not only masks imperfections, but also fights certain problems: moisturizes, whitens, etc.

There are also disadvantages - it is possible to use mineral oils and alcohols. It's not scary and absolutely safe. But in terms of effectiveness, such creams are inferior to natural ones, since the products act only on the surface, without penetrating into the deep layers of the epidermis.

If you like beautiful packaging and a bright aroma, drugstore cosmetics will disappoint. The bottles are usually simple, laconic in shape (the cream is often packaged in a simple plastic tube), and the aroma is either specific or absent altogether.

Lierac Hydragenist Moisturizing Cream

A light textured product designed to moisturize dry to very dry skin. The patented HYDRA O2 complex (based on oxygen nanoparticles) and hyaluronic acid instantly moisturize and relieve the feeling of tightness. Apricot kernel oil and plant extracts (roses, gardenias) nourish and smooth out fine wrinkles.

The cream is quickly absorbed and does not leave a filmy feeling on the skin after application. And reflective particles visually correct, even out the relief and give the skin a healthy glow.

Lierac Hydragenist Moisturizing Cream

Advantages:

• moisturizing without stickiness or greasy shine;
• melting texture, easy to spread;
• light, fresh, pleasant aroma;
• economical consumption.

Flaws:

• may roll off when applied (do not use as a base for makeup);
• overcharge.

Nuxe Prodigiense Enrichie

Cream with nourishing and moisturizing effect. Suitable for normal, sensitive and combination skin. It contains a complex of plant antioxidants that have a regenerating effect and prevent premature aging. The formula contains sweet almond oil, as well as extracts of cocoa, immortelle and ageratum blue (healing, soothing).

Nuxe Prodigiense Enrichie cream

Advantages:

• nourishes, visually reduces the number of wrinkles;
• natural composition, without parabens;
• contains 90% ingredients of natural origin.

Flaws:

• a bit heavy for summer, better used as a moisturizer in autumn and winter;
• nourishes perfectly, but hydration may not be enough, especially if the skin is very dry or dehydrated;
• does not protect against ultraviolet radiation (not suitable as a summer protective agent);
• a bit greasy, takes a long time to absorb;
• contains alcohol.

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Riche

Product for dry skin, suitable for people suffering from atopic dermatitis. Instantly moisturizes, the effect lasts throughout the day. The formula contains thermal water, aquabioril (a substance of natural origin with smoothing and moisturizing properties). And also carrageenan - a polysaccharide obtained from red algae, restoring the protective layer of the epidermis, shea butter, glycerin.

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Riche cream

Advantages:

• moisturizes, refreshes, masks imperfections (evens out the relief);
• without parabens;
• an excellent base product for makeup, does not crease, does not affect the durability of the foundation;
• melting texture.

Flaws:

• It is unlikely to be suitable for summer, since it does not contain UV filters;
• due to the oil content in the composition, it is absorbed for a long time;
• a specific smell (according to customers, the aroma is reminiscent of cheap hand cream), which, however, quickly disappears.

La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Legere SPF 20

Light texture - the product is also called fluid - perfectly moisturizes, instantly eliminates flaking, and relieves inflammation. Suitable even for problem skin, does not clog pores, relieves inflammation (thanks to thermal water in the composition). The moisturizing component is hyaluronic acid, which fills the cells with moisture. Contains SPF to help protect against ultraviolet rays.

cream La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Legere SPF 20

Advantages:

• rapid hydration, smoothing out fine wrinkles;
• adsorbents in the composition absorb excess sebum, so the product has a slight mattifying effect;
• non-comedogenic;
• light but not runny consistency, economical consumption;
• evens out the texture, copes with flaking (great as a base for foundation cosmetics);
• light aroma, convenient packaging.

Flaws:

• a lot of “chemistry” in the composition;
• many customers note that after stopping use, the skin becomes dry, as such there is no cumulative effect;
• For a product with a high content of artificial components, the price is very high.

Avene Hydrance Optimale UV legere SPF 20

For normal (combination) skin. Moisturizes, prevents the appearance of wrinkles, protects against the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation, thanks to the UV filters and antioxidants included in the composition. It has a slight mattifying effect (it contains special substances - sorbents) and soothes. Oil-free formula does not clog pores.

Avene Hydrance Optimale UV legere cream SPF 20

Advantages:

• moisturizing without greasy shine or stickiness;
• slight matting effect;
• unobtrusive, pleasant smell;
• light, airy texture;
• suitable for use morning and evening;
• evens out the terrain;
• due to the absence of oils, it does not clog pores;
• contains components that provide effective SPF protection.

Flaws:

• composition - many artificial ingredients, including carbomers and preservatives;
• does not fight problems, but masks shortcomings;
• high consumption - the texture is fluid, plus the product is quickly absorbed;
• It may be a little heavy for oily skin, most likely due to the polymers in the composition;
• the price is quite high for a relatively small volume of 40 ml.

Natural (organic)

Belita Vitex, comfort cream for skin prone to redness

A gentle universal cream that was developed for women over 35 years old with sensitive skin prone to rosacea. Active components relieve inflammation, reduce redness, saturate the epidermis with nutrients, smooth out wrinkles, inhibit the formation of new ones, provide antioxidant protection, correcting the color and surface of the skin. Regular use returns her to a healthy appearance. The cream consists of 95% natural ingredients.

Belita Vitex, comfort cream for skin prone to redness

Advantages:

• low cost;
• can be used by ladies prone to allergies;
• delicate cream texture.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Natura Siberica

The manufacturer of Natura Siberica cream for sensitive skin is a Russian company that produces environmentally friendly cosmetics.

The light, delicate day cream contains allantoin. This component is one of the oxidation products of uric acid with potassium permanganate. It promotes deep cleansing of the upper layers of the epidermis. Hyaluronic acid performs the same function, and vitamin P increases elasticity and strengthens the skin structure.

Another positive feature is the content of strong sun filters (SPF) equal to 20. Natura Siberica cosmetics do not contain oxygen-containing silicone compounds, mineral oils, esters, EDTA, PEG, BHT-BHA.

Natura Siberica cream for sensitive skin

Advantages:

• affordable price;
• protects against ultraviolet radiation;
• penetrates deeply into the epidermis, moisturizing it;
• suitable for skin prone to allergies;
• The texture of the cream is light and delicate.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Professional

Sebum-regulating moisturizing Cetaphil Dermacontrol Pro

Dermatological cosmetic product used for everyday care. The cream not only relieves redness, but also successfully treats acne. The product, created for professional care, whose effect lasts up to 24 hours, intensively moisturizes dry skin. In addition to the therapeutic effect, it also has a protective effect against ultraviolet radiation.

Thanks to oleosome technology, the active substances of the product are delivered to the deeper layers of the skin. To quickly restore the upper layers of the epidermis, ceramides were introduced into the composition. Increased oiliness of the skin can be removed with the help of silicon dioxide.

Seboregulating moisturizing cream Cetaphil Dermacontrol Pro

Advantages:

• healing effect;
• protective effect against ultraviolet radiation.

Flaws:

• not found.

Moisturizing cream "Aloe V" from Dermatime

Suitable for daily skin care. Specially selected ingredients do not lead to intoxication and allergic reactions of the epidermal layer.

The composition contains only natural ingredients. The only limitation to the use of professional medicinal cosmetics is personal intolerance to one of the constituent ingredients. Therefore, before starting use, you should test on a small area.

During therapy, the moisturizing effect lasts for a long time, due to which the products help reduce side effects.

Aloe V cream Dermatime

Advantages:

• natural ingredients;
• has soothing, smoothing and antioxidant properties;
• does not cause allergies.

Flaws:

• not found.

Sensitive Skin Types

Depending on the causes of irritation, skin is divided into several types:

• Weak from birth, most often light and dry. Reacts negatively to any external stimuli. Owners of this type most often cannot spend time in the sun.
• Situationally sensitive - due to improper care, poor-quality cosmetics or aggressive procedure. If you do not address the aggravating factors and take care of your skin, all negative consequences will disappear.
• Sensitive due to internal problems: nervous exhaustion or severe stress, internal diseases. This type needs to be treated together with an endocrinologist.

If you suspect that you have sensitive skin and know how to determine it, all that remains is to choose the right care.

How to care for sensitive skin

Selecting the right products and giving up certain habits will help significantly reduce skin sensitivity.

• Pay attention to the composition of cosmetic products. Look for the label “for sensitive, irritation-prone skin.” Choose products approved by dermatologists. Such products have undergone clinical trials, which means they have definitely proven their effectiveness and safety.
• The correct selection of cosmetics is important. Avoid products that contain alcohol, alkalis, or aggressive surfactants: they dry out the skin.
• Also use cosmetics more carefully: they do not always involve taking care of irritated skin. In the store, try applying a little product to the skin of your hand and see the reaction: if redness appears, this cosmetics is not for you.
• Do not use fatty creams and cosmetic oils. They create a fatty film, which prevents moisture from entering the skin.
• Try to drink more water: the necessary moisture enters the body from the inside. Eat a balanced diet, eat more healthy foods: fast food will negatively affect your skin.
• Avoid scrubs and peels: their particles scratch the surface of the skin.
• Wash with warm water, ideally filtered and not tap water - it is very hard. Never cleanse your face with soap: it dries the skin. After washing, lightly and gently touch the skin with a towel: aggressive movements will cause irritation.
• In cold and windy seasons, apply a moisturizing and nourishing cream half an hour before going out: it will protect your face from external factors. Choose a cream that is dermatologist-approved and fragrance-free—this is very important for sensitive skin.

Natura Siberica “Protection and Moisturizing”

Photo taken from open sources
Natural cream for high-quality daily care. It boasts a sun protection factor of spf 20 and a working organic formula, in which you will find many plant extracts, oils, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. At the same time, the cream is not at all heavy, absorbs quickly, and is suitable for makeup. In general, be sure to try it. The price is not bad, but the range in different stores is large - from 500 to 800 rubles.