Soothing Solutions: The Best Skincare for Sensitive Skin Types
- Isabelle Shaw
- Apr 1
- 4 min read
Yes, I’m a makeup artist, but first and foremost, I’m a skincare advocate, and a sensitive skin girly through and through. At one point, I even considered becoming a dermatologist, but science and med school weren’t my thing. Instead, I’ve spent my life navigating eczema and testing nearly every "sensitive skin" product out there. For the past four years, I’ve worked in the skincare industry alongside experienced estheticians, deepening my understanding of skin health and the science behind effective products.
I understand the struggle firsthand, one day, your skin is fine, and the next, it’s red, itchy, and inflamed. Sometimes, it’s not even about the products; stress, seasonal allergies, and certain foods can be major triggers. If your sensitive skin leans more towards acne breakouts, don’t worry, there’s plenty of valuable info for you here too!
Before we dive in, remember: everyone’s skin is different. I’ve tried products that others swear by, only to have my face feel like it’s on fire. So, let’s talk about what has actually worked for me.
What to Look For
Quality Ingredients – Not all skincare is created equal. A $15 hyaluronic acid product won’t work the same as an $85 one because the quality and concentration of the ingredient vary drastically. Investing in better formulations will often save you money in the long run.
What to Avoid – Steer clear of products that list alcohol in the first half of the ingredient list, it strips your skin’s natural oils and weakens your barrier. The same goes for essential oils, which can be extremely irritating. Extracts are different and generally safer.
The Truth About “Natural” Skincare – Just because something is “natural” doesn’t mean it’s good for you. Let’s pick on beef tallow for a second, it might work for some, but for most, it clogs pores, traps bacteria, and causes long-term damage. Brands like iS Clinical and Hydrinity use naturally sourced ingredients while also being backed by science.
Know Your Triggers – My eczema triggers include seasonal allergies, pet dander, inflammatory foods (gluten, sugar, dairy, I ignore my lactose intolerance more than I should), and stress. Even getting my brows waxed or threaded causes a breakout, so I’ve learned not to do it before a big event. Understanding your triggers helps you take preventative steps.
My Favourite Sensitive Skin-Friendly Skincare
Best Brands
iS Clinical
Hydrinity
GlyMed+
Yes, these are high-end, but they’re potent, so you use less. A $150 serum that lasts six months is better than an $80 one that lasts two. If you have sensitive acne-prone skin, GlyMed+ is fantastic!
Cleanser
The key to calming sensitive skin is proper cleansing. Leftover makeup, debris, and pollutants can irritate your skin and clog pores.
iS Clinical Cream Cleanser – My go-to during flare-ups.
iS Clinical Cleansing Complex – Amazing for daily use, 3-in-1 cleanser, toner, and gentle exfoliant.
iS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser - A great treatment cleanser that gently exfoliates without stripping.
Hydrinity Prelude Treatment Cleanser – Uses MicroFusion Technology to remove pollutants while soothing the skin.
Hypochlorous Acid (A Must-Have!)
An antiseptic powerhouse for eczema, acne, cuts, and general inflammation.
Hydrinity Hyacyn Active Mist – The most stable and effective hypochlorous acid mist I’ve found. Absorbs quickly and won’t degrade vitamin C.
Tower 28 SOS Facial Spray – A great option at Sephora!
Eye Cream
The most delicate skin of the face needs to be cared for with slightly different products.
Hydrinity Eye Renew Complex – Perfect for eczema-prone eye areas, contains hyaluronic acid and cranberry extract as a retinol alternative.
Treatments
For healing and calming flare-ups.
iS Clinical Pro-Health Serum – A vitamin C serum that targets inflammation and redness.
Hydrinity Restorative HA Serum – A medical-grade hyaluronic acid that penetrates deep into the skin, originally developed for wound healing.
GlyMed+ CBD Skin Mist – A calming, healing serum in spray form.
Hydrinity Restorative HA+ Masque – Instantly soothes and hydrates angry skin.
Aquaphor – A staple for eczema-prone hands, especially in winter.
Serums
To help maintain healthy skin.
iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3 – A gentle yet effective retinol.
iS Clinical Active Serum – Great for acne and anti-aging.
Hydrinity Vivid Brightening Serum – Helps with hyperpigmentation.
GlyMed+ Restoring Fulvic Elixir – A powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatment for breakouts.
Masques & Exfoliation
An extra step in the routine when your skin just needs a little extra love.
GlyMed+ Mattifying Sulfur Masque – Kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
iS Clinical Active Peel System – A gentle yet effective AHA exfoliation.
Moisturizers
Non-negotiable step when it comes to healthy skin barriers. Yes, oily skin needs moisturizer too.
iS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion – Hydrating, healing, and gives a healthy glow.
iS Clinical Sheald Recovery Balm – Great for winter or compromised skin barriers.
GlyMed+ Oxygen Cream – Perfect for acne-prone skin.
GlyMed+ Comfort Cream – A lighter alternative to Sheald Balm.
Eucerin Original Lotion – My favourite non-greasy, non-irritating body moisturizer.
Sunscreens
No debate. You need one. Everyday.
iS Clinical Eclipse SPF 50 – Hydrating with a dewy finish, comes in tinted and untinted versions.
Color Science No Show Mineral Sunscreen – Lightweight, matte finish.
Tips for Building a New Routine
Get a skin consult or facial! An esthetician can help you find the right products. If you’re in Winnipeg, I highly recommend The A’esthetic Skin Studio.
Introduce new products slowly. Swap one product at a time and give it a week before adding another.
Be patient! Healing your skin barrier takes time. Focus on consistency over perfection.
Sensitive skin doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With the right products and habits, you can achieve healthy, resilient skin. Let me know if you have any questions, I’m always happy to help!
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