Top 5 Drugstore Skincare Recommendations for Sensitive Skin

You might have sensitive skin if you’ve ever experienced redness, irritation, stinging, or dryness after using skincare products. But how can you know for sure? Sensitive skin reacts more quickly to environmental stressors, skincare products, and temperature changes. Signs include frequent redness, burning sensations, or breakouts when using new or harsh products. If this sounds familiar, your skin may be on the sensitive side. The good news is that you can soothe and protect your skin without irritation with the right products.

Here are my top 5 drugstore skincare recommendations for sensitive skin—products I turn to when my skin feels extra sensitive.

1. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

When your skin is irritated or extra sensitive, the last thing you want is a cleanser that strips it of its natural moisture. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is a gentle, non-foaming formula that cleanses without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry. Key ingredients like ceramides help restore the skin barrier, while hyaluronic acid locks in moisture. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it perfect for sensitive skin types.

How to Use: Apply to damp skin, gently massaging in circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Use morning and night.

2. Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion

For a lightweight, everyday body moisturizer, Vanicream Lotion is a go-to for sensitive skin. It's free from common irritants like dyes, fragrances, and parabens, making it ideal for those prone to allergies or irritation. It contains glycerin, a powerful humectant that helps your skin retain moisture, keeping it soft and hydrated all day.

How to Use: Apply generously to clean dry skin after cleansing, morning and night, or as needed.

3. Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream (Dr. Ali Holy Grail)

When my skin is reactive, I reach for this to calm things down. This cream is designed for hypersensitive and irritated skin, formulated with minimal ingredients to reduce the risk of reactions. It contains Avene Thermal Spring Water, which has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm redness and discomfort. Fun fact: this is the moisturizer I always travel with!

How to Use: Apply a small amount to clean dry skin once or twice daily. For best results, follow with sunscreen during the day.

4. CeraVe Healing Ointment (Dr. Ali Holy Grail)

CeraVe Healing Ointment is a lifesaver for those particularly rough patches or irritation areas. This multi-use balm contains petrolatum to form a protective barrier, as well as ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and repair the skin. It’s ideal for slugging, which is the technique of applying an occlusive agent to lock in moisture overnight (see my slugging post!).

How to Use: Apply a thin layer to dry or irritated areas as needed- or slug!

5. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Sensitive skin still needs sun protection, but many sunscreens can irritate or sting. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which physically blocks harmful UV rays without irritating the skin. It’s enriched with ceramides and niacinamide, which help soothe and restore the skin’s natural barrier.

How to Use: Apply generously to all exposed skin 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

Ingredients to Avoid for Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients in your skincare products. Some ingredients are more likely to cause irritation or worsen sensitivity:

1. Fragrances: Synthetic and natural fragrances can trigger irritation, so it’s best to stick to fragrance-free formulas.

2. Alcohol (denatured or SD alcohol): These can dry out the skin and compromise the skin barrier.

3. Sulfates: Often found in cleansers, sulfates can be too harsh for sensitive skin, stripping it of essential moisture.

4. Essential Oils: While they may be natural, essential oils like peppermint or lavender can irritate sensitive skin.

5. Harsh Exfoliants: Physical exfoliants with large, rough particles or chemical exfoliants with high concentrations of acids (like glycolic acid) can be too aggressive.

By choosing the right products and avoiding known irritants, you can keep your sensitive skin calm, hydrated, and healthy. These drugstore products offer gentle, effective solutions without breaking the bank—making them reliable staples in any sensitive skin routine.