9 Skin Care Hacks for Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin got you down? If you’re blotchy or just plain dry, your skin might need a little additional attention. Look no further—use the following nine hacks and you'll be well on your way to caring for sensitive skin like a pro. Plus, we're also sharing our best facial wash for sensitive skin, best moisturizer for sensitive skin, and more skin care products to create a skin care routine for sensitive skin.

HACK #1: PAY ATTENTION TO Skin Care PRODUCT LABELS

When you have sensitive skin, it’s important to read product labels before putting anything on your face. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), those with sensitive skin should avoid products that contain fragrances, soap, or alcohol. The AAD states that acids may also be irritating to sensitive skin. So, the next time you’re out shopping for new skin care products, don’t buy anything until you’ve looked over the ingredient list!

HACK #2: TEST NEW skin care PRODUCTS first

Before diving into a new beauty routine, patch test any unfamiliar products. A quick trial run can help determine if you might experience any potential discomfort. Apply a small amount of product to your wrist and pay attention to how your skin responds.

HACK #3: Learn How to Cleanse Your Face the Right Way

According to the AAD, washing your face once a day should be enough to keep your sensitive skin clean (unless you’re wearing makeup, in which case it’s important to cleanse before going to bed). And you should avoid over-exfoliating, since this can cause further irritation. Reach for a micellar water, like the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin, which hydrates and soothes. Pour some out onto a cotton pad and wipe the pad across your face.

HACK #4: WASH UP IN LUKEWARM WATER

Attention all those with sensitive skin: It’s time to turn down the dial the next time you’re in the shower! Super-hot water can strip your skin of essential moisture, so bathe in lukewarm temps from now on—your sensitive skin will thank you!

HACK #5: PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN

Caring for sensitive skin and sun protection go hand in hand. Yes, everyone—regardless of skin type—should wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. That’s because spending prolonged periods of time in the sun without protection can lead to damage. Plus, the sun can burn you—so if you have sensitive skin that’s easily irritated, it’s even more important to keep it protected. That means using a broad-spectrum sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF as directed, limiting your amount of time in the sun (especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., which are peak hours), seeking shade, and covering up exposed areas in long sleeves, pants, UV-blocking sunglasses, and a broad-brimmed hat.

HACK #6: Calm sensitive skin with a soothing face mask

When you have sensitive skin, you might not think that you can use a face mask—but it’s all about finding one that offers gentle cleansing to stressed areas, like the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Clear & Comfort Face Mask. Twice a week, apply an even layer of face mask to clean, dry skin, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.

HACK #7: Never skip out on moisturizer

When you have sensitive skin, you may be nervous to apply even more products onto it. Here’s the thing, though—your skin needs moisture. When your complexion is properly moisturized, that hydration will serve as a barrier to the outside world, meaning your sensitive skin will be more protected against outside aggressors. Try the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Cicacream Face Moisturizer Pro-Retinol & Centella Asiatica, which helps repair the skin barrier to resist visible signs of aging.  

HACK #8: NEUTRALIZE the look of REDNESS WITH GREEN CONCEALER

All aboard the color correcting concealer trend! Color correction involves using a concealer that’s a shade opposite your skin concern on the color wheel. That means that green concealer can help neutralize the look of redness. The L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Color Correcting Crayon in Green works like a charm. Apply it to any necessary areas of your face before covering it up with a quick swipe of the L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Super-Blendable Multi-Use Concealer.

HACK #9: SWAP OUT FOUNDATION FOR BB CREAM

Who needs foundation when you can use a product that will take care of all your complexion needs in one step? The L’Oréal Paris Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream Anti-Redness is formulated with color-transforming pigments infused in an ultra-light lotion to help counteract the appearance of redness. Because no one has to know you have sensitive skin unless you want them to!

There you have it, a skin care routine fit for your skin’s sensitive needs. Want to learn more about sensitive skin? Check out our article, Our Best Skin Care Products for Sensitive Skin.