Moisturisers That Don’t Sting Sensitive Skin
For skin prone to rosacea, a moisturiser can be a critical tool for repairing a compromised skin barrier. The right moisturiser can reduce sensitivity, calm redness, and make your skin more resilient, but finding one that doesn't cause stinging can be a challenge.
How to choose a barrier-repairing moisturiser?
I tell patients to start with a light water-based moisturiser. I like Cetaphil and Cerave brands. It is important to avoid greasy moisturisers which can block pores. If more intense hydration is required then key ingredients to seek out are ceramides, which are lipids that support your skin barrier; hyaluronic acid for more intense hydration; and niacinamide, which helps reduce inflammation.
Do “sensitive skin” labels actually matter?
The term "for sensitive skin" is a marketing term that does not have any medical definition. Products with this label often omit common irritants like fragrance and alcohol but this is not a guarantee they will work for you. Always check the full ingredient list for known irritants and beneficial barrier-repair ingredients. Make sure to patch test before committing to a new product.
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
Related articles
- A Simple Rosacea-Safe Skincare Routine
- Best Ingredients (and Worst Irritants) for Rosacea
- Minimalist Routine for Rosacea
