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When I had an unfortunate incident with retinol (sensitivity, redness, burning), the Gentle Skin Cleanser was the only face wash I could tolerate. It actually felt soothing to coat my skin in the lotion-y formula.” \u2014Lexi Novak, Allure<\/em> tester<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\nKey ingredients:<\/strong> niacinamide, panthenol, glycerin<\/li>\nFragrance-free:<\/strong> yes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBest for Acne-Prone Skin:<\/strong> Ourself Daily Purifying Cleanser<\/h2>\n\n
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Ourself<\/p>\n
Daily Purifying Cleanser<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Why it’s worth it:<\/strong> Ourself\u2019s Daily Purifying Cleanser is equal parts cleanser and moisturizer, which is exactly what skin needs to steer clear of blemishes, dryness, and irritation alike. This gel-to-foam face wash\u2019s multitasking formula swaps harsh surfactants for a gentle cleansing agent derived from coconut fatty acids to gently wash away sweat, oil, and excess sebum. Meanwhile, a conditioning blend of murmuru butter, niacinamide, and saccharide isomerate (a moisturizing compound derived from sugar) leaves skin feeling soft and supple post-rinse. \u201cThis gentle daily cleanser uses a blend of hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients to effectively remove impurities without stripping the skin\u2014ideal for sensitive, reactive, or dryness-prone skin,\u201d adds Anna Karp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.<\/p>\n\n
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\u201cMy skin is frequently red and sensitive, but as of lately, I\u2019ve been breaking out more than I ever have in my life. Thankfully, this intensive formula has helped minimize both blackheads and painful cystic acne alike, all without stripping my skin. I call it my Goldilocks formula: it\u2019s not too drying, but not so mild that it\u2019s useless for cleansing. \u201d Jennifer Hussein, Allure<\/em> contributing writer<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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\nKey ingredients:<\/strong> cocamidopropyl betaine (coconut fatty acid-derived surfactant), murmuru butter, saccharide isomerate, niacinamide, beet root extract<\/li>\nFragrance-free:<\/strong> yes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBest for Redness:<\/strong> Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser<\/h2>\n\n
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Dermalogica<\/p>\n
Ultracalming Cleanser<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Why it’s worth it:<\/strong> Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Ontario, is a big fan of anything that contains oat and cucumber\u2014and the Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser fits the bill. “These are gentle, soothing ingredients that comfort the skin, restore moisture, and reduce inflammation,” says Dr. Yadav. In addition, this gel cleanser also contains calming lavender extract to reduce redness and is free from quite a few potentially troublesome irritants like alcohol, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives.<\/p>\n\n
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\nKey ingredients:<\/strong> oat kernel extract, lavender extract, ginger root extract<\/li>\nFragrance-free:<\/strong> yes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBest No-Rinse:<\/strong> Eau Thermale Av\u00e8ne Tol\u00e9rance Extremely Gentle Cleanser<\/h2>\n\n
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Eau Thermale Av\u00e8ne<\/p>\n
Tol\u00e9rance Extremely Gentle Cleanser<\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Why it’s worth it:<\/strong> If your skin is so irritated that it can\u2019t even handle a splash of warm water, Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and Englewood, New Jersey, recommends the non-sudsing, no-rinse Eau Thermale Av\u00e8ne Tol\u00e9rance Extremely Gentle Cleanser. \u201cThis cleansing gel is gentle and helps to remove makeup, dirt, and oil while also calming the skin,\u201d she says. Dr. Garshick also notes that the key ingredient, thermal spring water, not only provides instant soothing relief but also supports the skin barrier, making it great for those with sensitive skin that\u2019s on the mend.<\/p>\n\n
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\nKey ingredients:<\/strong> thermal spring water<\/li>\nFragrance-free:<\/strong> yes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBest for Oily Skin:<\/strong> Fresh Soy Face Cleanser<\/h2>\n\n
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Why it’s worth it:<\/strong> Dr. Park also vouches for Fresh’s Soy Face Cleanser, a frothy face wash formulated with cucumber extract and aloe vera to calm and hydrate irritated skin. “I especially love using this face wash when I travel because it helps a lot with the irritation that inevitably occurs after a flight,” Dr. Park says. Plus, it’s infused with nourishing rosewater, also known for its calming properties. It thoroughly cleanses pores and reduces congestion, making it a solid pick for oily or combination skin types.<\/p>\n\n
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\nKey ingredients:<\/strong> aloe vera, cucumber extract, soy proteins<\/li>\nFragrance-free:<\/strong> yes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/p>\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What is sensitive skin, and how do I know if I have it?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n“Sensitive skin is skin that is more reactive than usual,” Illinois board-certified dermatologist Jessie Cheung, MD, previously told Allure<\/em>.<\/em> This means your skin can be easily irritated by the elements, air pollution, hormones, or, you guessed it, topical skin care products. “If [you find yourself being] cautious with trying new skin products or find that you’re frequently battling red, flaky, itchy, or bumpy skin, then you probably have sensitive skin,” Dr. Cheung, adds. Because “sensitive skin” isn’t a medical condition but rather a complaint or finding, it can be tricky to know whether you have it. Ask your dermatologist for tailored skin care advice if you suspect you might.<\/p>\nWhich facial cleanser ingredients are best for sensitive skin types?<\/p>\n
Regarding ingredients, sensitive skin types need to be particularly discerning. Overall, Morgan Rabach, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, suggests seeking hydrating, soothing, and moisture-sealing ingredients, such as tried-and-true hyaluronic acid, oatmeal, and aloe vera. \u201cInstead of strong, soapy, clean cleansers, look for mild cleansers using emulsifiers,\u201d she says. Dr. Rabach also suggests using a pH-balanced cleanser, which is closer to the natural skin pH of around 5 to 5.5.<\/p>\n
What should I avoid if I have sensitive skin?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\nAmy B. Lewis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, previously told Allure<\/em> that people with sensitive skin should avoid sulfates, exfoliants, retinoids, isopropyl alcohol, glycolic, and salicylic acids\u2014to name a few. “Some patients think they’re sensitive because they’re red and dry, but really they’re vaping, or smoking cigarettes or weed\u2014so their skin isn’t as resilient as it used to be,” adds Jeanine Downie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Montclair, New Jersey. If smoking or sun damage (don’t forget your sunscreen, please) is behind your sensitive skin, topicals aren’t going to fix or help your skin concerns.<\/p>\nSensitive skin isn’t a one-size-fits-all concern, so you may find your triggers inconsistent with conventional wisdom. Therefore, pay close attention to your skin after using any new products and talk to your dermatologist for more information.<\/p>\n
How should I choose a face wash for sensitive skin?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n“You want to use gentle, hydrating cleansers that remove impurities without stripping the skin barrier of all its natural moisturizing factors,” explains Washington, D.C.-based dermatologist Adam Friedman, MD. Before you wash your face, seek out products with as short an ingredient list as possible, adds Dr. Irwin. “For sensitive skin, specifically, you want products that are free of artificial fragrances, parabens, and phthalates.”<\/p>\n
How often should sensitive skin types cleanse?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\nEven if you have sensitive skin, cleansing morning and night is essential for keeping your pores clean\u2014just make sure the face wash you use is gentle enough for your sensitive skin. That being said, Dr. Karp recommends that severely reactive skin types cleanse with a gentle cleanser at night and simply rinse with lukewarm water in the morning.<\/p>\n
What else can I do to minimize sensitivity?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\nYour cleansing regimen is a key element for minimizing sensitivity. Both Dr. Karp and Dr. Rabach recommend washing with lukewarm water in order to minimize irritation, but there are added steps you can take to create a gentle routine that still provides a deep cleanse. \u201cOnly cleanse for half a minute, avoid cloths and textured sponges and exfoliating brushes,\u201d says Dr. Rabach. Then, beyond cleansing, Dr. Karp suggests keeping your skin-care routine short and sweet, using only a moisturizer and sunscreen during daylight hours.<\/p>\n
Meet the experts<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\n\nSejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City<\/li>\n Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey<\/li>\n Anna Karp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.<\/li>\n Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Ontario<\/li>\n Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Austin, Texas<\/li>\n Marisa Garshick, MD a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and Englewood, New Jersey<\/li>\n Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle, Washington<\/li>\n Morgan Rabach,MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City<\/li>\n Brandith Irwin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City<\/li>\n Jessie Cheung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Illinois<\/li>\n Adam Friedman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, D.C.<\/li>\n Amy B. Lewis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City<\/li>\n Jeanine Downie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Montclair, New Jersey<\/li>\n Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Tennessee<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How we test and review products<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\nWhen Allure<\/em> tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.<\/p>\nFor our list of the best face washes for sensitive skin, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients, efficacy, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors\u2014along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.<\/p>\n
Our staff and testers<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/p>\nA beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure<\/em> wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors\u2014in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon\u2014is essential to reaching that goal.<\/p>\nAfter all, can we really<\/em> say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.<\/p>\n<\/inline-embed><\/p>\n
Read more about our favorite skin-care products:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Austin, Texas, also recommends this cleanser for sensitive skin types: \u201cYou get a gigantic stock for a reasonable price and can be confident that it will never irritate your skin,\u201d she says. Further proof that it’s worth a buy? It’s won three Best of Beauty Awards and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":498,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[55],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-497","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beauty"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/497","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=497"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/497\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/498"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=497"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=497"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sasgai.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=497"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}