Best Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin: Dermatologist-Recommended Steps and Products

Cleansing: First Step for Sensitive Skin

Proper cleansing removes dirt, oil, and impurities without leaving the skin feeling stripped or dry.

Using a gentle cleanser designed for sensitive skin helps maintain the skin’s protective barrier and reduces the risk of irritation or redness.

How to Choose the Best Cleanser

Choosing the right cleanser is crucial for sensitive skin types.

Dermatologists recommend selecting fragrance-free, non-foaming formulas that avoid sulfates, alcohol, or harsh surfactants.

Look for soothing ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid, which help restore hydration and reinforce the moisture barrier.

Cream and lotion cleansers typically offer a milder cleanse than gel or foam varieties.

Cleansing balms are also effective, particularly for those who wear makeup, as they gently dissolve impurities without tugging on the skin.

Avoid cleansers labeled with high astringency or exfoliating beads, since these can trigger sensitivity.

Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested options add another layer of reassurance.

It’s ideal to perform a patch test on a small part of the face before using a new product regularly.

This practice helps identify any potential reaction before applying it widely.

Gentle Cleansing Techniques

Technique plays a significant role in caring for sensitive skin.

Use lukewarm—not hot—water to prevent aggravating dryness or redness.

Hands should be clean and free from rough textures or soaps that could leave behind residue.

Massage the cleanser into the skin using soft, circular motions for about 30 seconds.

Rinse thoroughly with water, making sure no residue is left, since leftover product can cause irritation.

Avoid using washcloths or cleansing brushes, which can physically damage the skin’s surface.

Pat the face dry with a soft microfiber towel, rather than rubbing.

Cleansing once at night is often sufficient for people with drier or reactive skin; a quick rinse with water in the morning can be enough if no heavy products have been used overnight.

Over-cleansing can weaken the skin barrier and increase sensitivity.

Popular Cleansers for Sensitive Skin

Several cleansers stand out for their effectiveness on sensitive skin.

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is well-known among dermatologists for its gentle formula containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid.

This product helps repair the skin barrier while cleaning away impurities.

Another widely recommended option is the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, which is fragrance-free and contains soothing niacinamide.

Micellar water can be useful for quick, no-rinse cleansing, particularly for makeup removal.

Cleansing balms like those from Clinique or Banila Co provide a thorough yet soothing cleanse, ideal for double cleansing routines.

For a complete guide to step-by-step skincare routines and more product suggestions, see the recommendations on Vogue’s best skincare routines and the practical tips on Nordstrom’s sensitive skin routine.

Optimal Hydration and Moisturizing

Sensitive skin benefits significantly from carefully chosen hydration practices and gentle yet effective moisturizers.

Selecting products with the right ingredients reduces the risk of irritation, helps prevent moisture loss, and supports a resilient skin barrier.

Hydration for Sensitive Skin

Hydration is key for people with sensitive skin, as a well-hydrated barrier helps control redness, dryness, and discomfort.

Using a fragrance-free and non-alcoholic toner or essence can add an extra layer of moisture before moisturizing.

Products that contain hyaluronic acid and glycerin are particularly effective because they draw water into the skin, helping it retain a smooth, plump appearance.

Environmental stressors and frequent cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils.

To counteract these effects, applying a hydrating serum right after cleansing—while the skin is still damp—can maximize water retention.

Drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier during dry seasons also supports the skin’s hydration levels from within.

Moisturizer Ingredients to Look For

Sensitive skin types should look for moisturizers that are labeled as hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic to minimize the risk of breakouts or reactions.

Ingredients like ceramides help restore the lipid barrier, which is often weakened in sensitive skin, reducing moisture loss and enhancing natural resilience.

Squalane is a lightweight, non-irritating oil that moisturizes without clogging pores.

Colloidal oatmeal and shea butter are soothing agents that calm reactivity and supply deep hydration.

A comparison of key ingredients:

Ingredient	Benefit
Ceramides	Barrier repair, reduces transepidermal water loss
Hyaluronic Acid	Intense hydration, plumps the skin
Glycerin	Attracts moisture, softens skin
Squalane	Lightweight moisture, non-comedogenic
Colloidal Oatmeal	Soothes irritation, reinforces barrier
Shea Butter	Deep nourishment, ideal for dry patches

Choosing formulations with minimal additives and no parfum or dye is wise for anyone prone to flare-ups.

Best Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin

Gentle, effective moisturizers for sensitive skin are widely recommended by dermatologists. Products that combine ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane can provide optimal hydration without overwhelming delicate skin.

Brands like CeraVe and La Roche-Posay create formulations that are specifically designed for sensitive complexions. These are highly rated for their gentle texture and efficacy.

Look for moisturizer options such as gel-cream formulas for oily-prone sensitive skin. Richer, cream-based products suit those with dry, flaky patches.

Applying moisturizer twice daily, especially after cleansing, helps maintain consistent hydration. This supports the skin’s barrier function.

For extra protection, layer a mineral-based sunscreen over moisturizer in the morning. This further shields against environmental triggers.