If your skin is red, reactive, stressed, sensitive or compromised, choose skincare products designed to soothe, cool and repair. Some brands, such as Avène, are sensitive skin specialists. Their formulations are clinically proven to minimise skin irritation and relieve key symptoms, including redness, dryness and discomfort. Repairing skincare formulations help to build and support the skin barrier. They tend to be simple, gentle, and fragrance-free. Use them to build a regime that protects and preserves the skin’s acid mantle – the delicate layer on your skin’s surface that acts as a barrier to bacteria, viruses and other potential irritants and contaminants.
Specialist anti-redness products can help to cool and calm heat and flushing. Look out too for no-rinse cleansers that reduce the risk of irritation from tap water, and ingredients such as Shea Butter, Glycerin, Aloe Vera and Vitamin E, all well known for their ability to comfort, nourish and repair. If your skin is sensitive, avoid harsh ingredients that strip or over-exfoliate, and exercise caution with super-strength actives such as Retinol and Vitamin C.