sensitive skin

So there’s pollution and the fact that we are constantly exposed to hidden – and harmful – airborne pollutants;  we’ve also got our hectic (and stressful) lifestyle and of course, with the availability of numerous beauty products, we can’t help but try different types to see which best suits our skin. Well, all this gives you the perfect formula to a (very) irritated complexion and with so many of us claiming to have sensitive and sensitised skin, it’s no surprise that we are always on the lookout for new products to help treat our skin.

But here’s our tip: instead of just blindly purchasing products, look at the ingredients list instead. To treat sensitive complexions, always pick products that are made with skin-soothing, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial ingredients. Here, five that you should know about.

#1: Centella Asiatica

sensitive skin
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Serum, $63, Sephora

Centella asiatica extract (also – or better – known as cica) is a plant-based ingredient that is known for its healing, soothing and calming properties, as well as other therapeutic benefits. The multi-tasking extract is rich in amino acids, beta-carotene, fatty acids and numerous phytochemicals, which are said to help treat acne scarring, calm inflammation, promote collagen synthesis and even has anti-ageing properties.

#2: Honey

sensitive skin
Chantecaille Detox Clay Mask, $273

When it comes to natural ingredients, honey is great for sensitive skin. It may be more known as a natural sweetener, but it also keeps your skin moisturised (its amazing at holding on to water), is antioxidant-rich, contains anti-bacterial properties and even slows down signs of ageing. In addition, it also treats pore concerns and is known for its healing properties.

#3: Calendula Extract

sensitive skin
Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner, $59

If your skin is constantly red, irritated and inflamed, you need to add ingredients that help soothe your complexion. One that is really popular is calendula, which is derived from the calendula flower. It is super gentle and is saturated with a host of antioxidants to protect and calm the skin.

#4: Panthenol

sensitive skin
Aesop In Two Minds Facial Toner, $75

It might sound a little intimidating but this should definitely be your go-to ingredient if you have very dry sensitive complexions. It is a derivative of vitamin B5 and behaves as a humectant (it retains moisture really well) for all-day hydration. It also helps to strengthen skin’s barrier function so that it becomes more resistant to harmful external aggressors that may damage your complexion further. Bonus: it has soothing properties too.

#5: Allantoin

sensitive skin
Glamglow Powermud Dualcleanse Treatment, $88, Sephora

While this may not be commonly known, it is an ingredient you should definitely put on your radar. Allantoin can be found in the root of a comfrey herb and is really compatible with our skin. It stimulates and supports cell regeneration, increases the moisture levels in our skin and contains healing and soothing properties. Apart from that, it also acts as a natural exfoliator to soften and brighten skin.

Main image: Showbit.com