People with sensitive skin may be more prone to skin irritants such as fragrances. Ideally all products coming into contact with the skin should be fragrance free, hypoallergenic formulas. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists
Sensitive skin formulations should be free from irritants such as fragrance, lanolin and parabens, and containing ingredients to decrease inflammation and skin discomfort. Niacinamide and ceramides are particularly effective for sensitive skin and neurosensine® in La Roche-Posay products is helpful to reduce discomfort. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists
Application of a protective barrier balm before and after shaving can be helpful. Shaving cream formulated for sensitive or allergic skin is preferable and avoidance of soap or other irritants such as aftershave containing alcohol or fragrance is essential. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists
Sensitive skin is a skin type which presents with some redness and unpleasant sensations in response to external stimuli such as environmental changes or application of skincare. Skin sensations include burning, stinging, tight or flushing feelings and an intolerance to heat, cold, wind, sun and many skincare products. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists
Sensitive skin is a constantly changing entity, influenced by countless internal and external factors.
Beyond simply removing dirt, cleansing plays an important role in balancing and strengthening the skin, and enhancing absorption of skincare ingredients. For sensitive skin in particular – skin prone to redness, tightness and discomfort – choosing the right cleanser is crucial. And soothing, minimalist formulas are key. Whether your sensitive skin tends towards dry, normal or combination, learning how to correctly cleanse is the all-important first step towards a calm and comfortable complexion. So, let’s get started.
Sensitive skin has an impaired barrier function, making it more susceptible to irritation from pollutants and allergens. The right cleanser will gently remove these impurities, while avoiding harsh, moisture-stripping ingredients. Not all sensitive skin is the same, however, and each type will benefit from a different formulation.
If your sensitive skin is normal to dry, try a gentle cleansing milk. Soap-, fragrance-, and preservative-free, new La Roche-Posay Toleriane Caring Wash contains a single, well-tolerated surfactant, Cocobetaine, to effectively remove make-up and impurities without causing dryness or irritation. Meanwhile, four powerful actives are enlisted to soothe, repair and protect the skin. La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water provides antioxidant protection; Panthenol is intensely soothing; Niacinamide targets the causes of itching and strengthens the skin barrier; and Ceramides help preserve skin moisture.
How to use: Using a small amount of the cleanser, create a lather with wet hands. Gently massage into the face, avoiding the eye area. Rinse and pat dry, without rubbing, using a soft, clean towel.
For normal to combination skins that enjoy the fresh sensation of a foaming cleanser, without the usual dryness, Toleriane Foaming Gel is ideal. With a skin-friendly pH of 5.5, the cleanser is free from soap, fragrance and preservatives, gently removing all traces of make-up, oil build-up, and impurities. Glycerin helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance, leaving the complexion soft, supple and calm.
How to use: Create a foam in your hands using warm water. Massage into the face, avoiding the eye area. Rinse well and gently pat dry.
Ultra-sensitive, dry skin needs extra care, and a true minimalist formula to cleanse and remove make-up. Enriched with moisturising glycerin, Toleriane Dermo Cleanser contains just eight high-tolerance ingredients. Free from fragrance, tensio-active ingredients and preservatives, it has a soothing rinse-off or rinse-free milk texture that is gentle enough for even the fragile eye area.
How to use: Pat on the skin with fingers, massaging gently in a circular motion. Carefully wipe off with a cotton pad, without rubbing. Alternatively, rinse off and follow with your moisturiser.
With a soothing gel texture, Toleriane Ultra Overnight has been created specially to soothe even the most sensitive and allergy-prone skins. As you sleep. Carnosine and vitamin E neutralise free radicals, while neurosensine helps soothe and reduce irritation.
Free from preservatives, parabens, fragrance and alcohol, the minimalist formula is enriched with soothing La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, and has been tested on allergic skin.
Toleriane Ultra Range provides all-day long protection and comfort for reactive skins and is hermetically sealed to avoid contamination. Intensely hydrating and easily absorbed, it allows seamless makeup application.
By a phenomenon called retro-contamination, particles in the air – potential irritants or allergens – enter the pack after it has been opened and can contaminate your daily face care products. Opt for tubes rather than jars to avoid contaminating the formula with your hands or airborne particles every time you grab some formula.
