Sensitive skin is notoriously one of the most difficult skin types to care for, as it can react negatively and flare up when exposed to certain ingredients, products, or even environmental factors, leaving your face red, itchy and inflamed.

Fortunately, if you're looking for skin care for sensitive skin, there are plenty of non-irritating options to choose from, so you can build an effective skin care routine that soothes, nourishes and hydrates without triggering irritation.

Let's take a look at what sensitive skin is and why it can be so difficult to deal with - then we'll go into skin care tips for sensitive skin.

What Is Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin is one of the five main skin types. Others include dry, oily, "normal", and combination. Compared to the other skin types, sensitive skin tends to be especially delicate and may reactive negatively to harsh chemicals and added fragrances that are found in many cosmetics and skin care products.

Symptoms of Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin often find that their skin flares up or reacts badly after they use certain products, like cleansers or lotions. This can result in redness, itchiness and irritation, as well as dark spots and breakouts.

In addition, people with sensitive skin may experience irritation when their skin is exposed to certain environmental conditions. For example, your skin may become irritated after spending a long time in the sun, or on a very cold and windy day.

It can be challenging to find the right skin care routine for sensitive skin that will minimize the risks of any unwanted irritation.

Causes of Sensitive Skin

So, what causes sensitive skin? In many cases, sensitive, irritation-prone skin is genetic, while others are born with skin that is more resistant and less reactive.

There are also skin conditions that can lead to sensitive skin, like contact dermatitis, aquagenic pruritus, cutaneous mastocytosis, and eczema, which affect the skin in various ways and may lead to sensitivity, irritation, hives, and other symptoms.

Dry skin can also lead to sensitive skin. If your skin is dehydrated, it's more likely to become itchy, red or irritated, which is why an effective moisturizer is essential in caring for sensitive skin.

Best Skincare Products for Sensitive Skin

If you're looking for the best skin care for sensitive skin, which products should you focus on, and which products or ingredients should you avoid? First, keep an eye out for things that are known to cause irritation in sensitive skin, such as fragrances, sulfates, alcohol, harsh exfoliants, and preservatives, such as parabens.

Look for products that contain low levels of these ingredients, opting for fragrance-free and paraben-free skin care whenever possible.

Plant-based formulations are often less likely to trigger adverse reactions, making them a great choice for sensitive skin.

When possible, choose products with fewer ingredients. This will reduce the risk of encountering sensitive skin triggers that can cause irritation.

Our Recommendation: Kind Science
Skincare for Sensitive Skin

If you're looking for the best skin care for sensitive skin, Kind Science's plant-powered lineup is a great place to start. Made with sensitive skin in mind, Kind Science products are formulated without harsh chemicals and instead use powerful plant ingredients with well-established safety and efficacy, such as bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinol.

Here's a simple Kind Science routine that's perfect for sensitive skin:

• Cleanse - The first step of any skincare routine is to remove dirt, grime, and pollutants from your face. Kind Science's Gentle Cleanser contains calming chamomile and skin-balancing green tea extract. It leaves skin soft and hydrated and effectively cleanses without causing irritation.
• Eye Cream - The skin around your eyes is especially fragile and prone to irritation. Sensitive skin types should apply Eye Cream twice daily to nourish, hydrated and visibly firm this delicate area.
• Moisturizer - Many people with sensitive skin struggle to find a good quality moisturizer that effectively hydrates without causing itching or irritation. Hydration Cream from Kind Science is packed with clinically validated hydrators, like snow mushroom, that are known to perform without irritation.
• Face Oil - Radiance Oil is a silky, lightweight blend of oils that helps seal in moisture while delivering an instant radiance boost for sensitive skin. Moringa and jojoba oils provide a wealth of antioxidants that are essential for healthy-looking skin.
• Exfoliate - Those with sensitive skin may avoid exfoliation because they think it's too abrasive for their skin type. However, you can try using a non-irritating exfoliating treatment, like Kind Science Micro Exfoliant+, once a week to gently polish and brighten without irritating your sensitive skin.

Top Skin Care Tips for
Skincare
for Sensitive Skin

Here are our top tips for avoiding irritation when caring for sensitive skin:

• Avoid using hot water in the shower or when washing your face.
• Shield sensitive skin from harsh weather by covering your face on cold and windy days.
• Wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
• Use fragrance-free skin care whenever possible.
• After a shower or bath, pat your face and body dry rather than rubbing.
• Always test small amounts of new products first to see how your skin reacts.
• Consult with a dermatologist for expert advice.