Ceradan is a Singaporean pharmaceutical company that prides itself on a formula containing ceramide, cholesterol and fatty acids in the optimal ratio 3:1:1 that is especially great at repairing compromised skin barriers. This gentle, non-foaming hydrating cleanser is suitable for both face and body, does not contain SLS/SLES, dyes, fragrance and parabens and can be used with or without water.

Freeplus is a Japanese skincare label under Kanebo Cosmetics that preaches clean, simple and safe formulations containing oriental herbs. Mild Shower is a moisturising mist consisting of natural moisturising factors and niacinamide. Use it as a hydrating toner on the face and body or over makeup to refresh.

Sensitive skin types need to be particular with the physical exfoliants they use. It cannot be too abrasive or it would exacerbate the problem. Kew Organics employs micronised organic Adzuki rice and bamboo powder to gently slough off dead skin while colloidal oatmeal, blueberry fruit fibre and vitamins C and E calm, soothe and protect the skin from oxidative damage.

Sensitive skin can be accompanied by uncomfortable tingling, stinging and even a rise in temperature that leaves you flushed. To relieve and heal, La Roche-Posay has included Neurosensine to this lightweight serum. This ingredient blocks pain sensation, and Osmolyte another key ingredient aids skin barrier repair.

Pollution and UV rays are other factors that chip away the skin’s integrity and lead to sensitivity. Japanese skincare line d program employs a three-pronged approach backed by research at the Shiseido labs to keep the skin’s natural defence barrier strong and healthy. The formula comprises a shielding film that keeps pollutants and impurities out, while an absorbing powder within the film traps any airborne particulates. Lastly the harmful particulate matter is rendered ineffective by neutralising ingredients.

Derma Lab has a proprietary Derma Mimic Complex that was formulated specifically to repair and strengthen dry, sensitive Asian skin using a combination of ceramides 1, 3 and 6 and hyaluronic acid. The Ceramide Repair Liquid also touts anti-inflammatory properties to calm and soothe and protect against pollution.

Cerave is well-loved within the sensitive skin community for its effective, no-frills formulations backed by science. The Moisturizing Cream has the MVE technology that continually hydrates skin over 24 hours in tandem with ceramides and hyaluronic acid that repair and hydrate. For the budget-conscious, this cream can be applied to both the face and body.

Derma B’s Multi Lamellar Emulsion (MLE) technology mimics the skin’s three-dimensional structure to ensure that their formulations absorb quickly to restore hydration without any stickiness and irritation. This iteration also contains olive oil and allantoin that imparts a healthy glow.