Sensitive skin tends toward inflammation, which robs skin of moisture. Using cream-based, rather than glycerin-based, cleansers is a general rule to follow. Fragrance, alcohol and oil are other ingredients to avoid in cosmetic products for sensitive or dry skin. These can cause allergies, chapping or clogged pores.
Clogged pores are detrimental to sensitive skin because they allow toxins to build up, become inflamed and cause blemishes. To avoid this condition, purchase noncomedogenic skin care items. Sun exposure is another major irritant, especially to facial skin. The American Association of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that everyone use a sunblock of SPF 30 daily. This acts to prevent skin cancer, sunburn and loss of moisture.
Cleanser
Dirt is the remaining common threat to sensitive skin care. Chase dirt away twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Use an alcohol-free makeup remover and scrub as necessary to deep-clean pores too. Start your cleansing routine with disposable pads such as Almay Oil-Free Makeup Remover Towlettes, winner of the Editor's Choice Award at "Allure." Almay is the top-selling makeup remover formula in America.
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Cleansing Pads are recommended by Consumer Reports for sensitive and dry skin. For deeper cleansing, try Aveeno Skin Brightening Daily Scrub or Clinique Exfoliating Scrub. These cosmetic products were rated 2008-2009 best beauty buys by "InStyle."
Moisturizer
Get great daytime protection and nighttime skin care from moisturizers. Clinique's fragrance-free moisturizers come in different weights and formulas for varied sensitive skin types. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, an "Allure" Best of Beauty Readers' Choice winner in 2009, works all day to seal in moisture and deflect dust and dirt. At night, try its companion product, Super Rescue Antioxidant Night Moisturizer to repair dry skin and lessen visible wrinkles.
Additional hypoallergenic cosmetic products that nourish facial skin include Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer (SPF 30) and Aveeno Ultra Calming Daily Moisturizer (SPF 15). In 2009, Positively Radiant was chosen best all-around moisturizer by "Cosmopolitan" readers, and Ultra Calming was recognized as a best buy for sensitive skin by "InStyle."
Sunscreen
Exposed skin still needs sun protection on cloudy days. Rain or shine, use an effective sunscreen or cosmetic product that includes sunblock. The AAD endorses Johnson & Johnson's Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock (SPF 55) for daily use. It's oil-free and waterproof, so it stays on longer between applications without harming your skin.
Facial and dry skin can be especially sensitive to sunscreens. Aveeno offers Continuous Protection Sunblock formulas especially for the face in SPFs 30 and 70. Another popular facial sunscreen with a clean feel is Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, available in a variety of SPFs up to 100+. This sun skin care line is recommended by the American Cancer Society.
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