Focus on What You Need
If you haven’t given much thought to your routine, start by taking a long hard look at the ingredients in the face wash you turn to every single day. What you use to cleanse your pores makes a difference in the vitality and condition of your skin, making it essential to only choose a facial cleanser that suits your needs. From what to avoid to recommended products, consider this your guide to finding the best face wash for sensitive skin.
Be Mindful of Face Wash Ingredients
When your pores are susceptible to flare-ups, harsh chemicals can wreak havoc, according to Kim Nichols, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon in New York City. Instead of products that will dry out skin or potentially cause a breakout, Dr. Nichols suggests looking for nourishing, non-irritating ingredients that will soothe while they cleanse. You’ll also want to avoid any exfoliant that isn’t hypersensitive or gentle. “Always steer clear from harsh physical scrubs, such as beads with rough edges, as they can cause micro-tears on the skin, making the skin prone to irritation or inflammation,” she says.
Ingredients to Avoid for Sensitive Skin
When you’re seeking the best face wash for sensitive skin, you can’t head to your local drugstore and pick up the first product you see. Be sure to check labels for potentially harmful ingredients. What should you keep an eye out for? Jeannel Astarita, a medical aesthetician and founder of Just Ageless in New York City, recommends avoiding parabens, phthalates, and fragrances since they can cause an imbalance in your skin’s pH and lead to rashes, overdrying, breakouts, and redness. Astarita also urges those with sensitive skin to refrain from any cleansers or washes that claim to leave skin “tingly.” These often include menthol or eucalyptol and will strip your skin of its natural sebum, which leads to extreme irritation and dryness. Dr. Nichols also says to exercise caution when using a facial cleansing brush, like a Clarisonic, because the bristles can be too harsh for unpredictable skin. “Sometimes these devices can also over strip the skin of its natural oils, which can lead to more sensitivity or acne,” she says. When in doubt, speak with a trusted dermatologist who can recommend the best regimen for your skin.
9 Best Face Washes for Sensitive Skin
Free of damaging chemicals and full of soothing vitamins and mindful ingredients, try one of these recommended face washes for sensitive skin. To buy: $62; defenage.com To buy: $32; ominutrition.com To buy: $8; target.com To buy: $18; ulta.com To buy: $52; amazon.com To buy: $49; eleniandchris.com To buy: $15; amazon.com To buy: $38; dermstore.com To buy: $28; sephora.com
