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How Do I Choose the Best Lotion for Sensitive Skin?

Angela Crout-Mitchell
Angela Crout-Mitchell

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best lotion for sensitive skin, such as the product's ingredient list, knowing which ingredients to avoid, and your skin type. Each individual's skin type has great deal to do with the type of skin products you choose because dry, normal, and oily skin can all manifest the common signs of sensitive skin. Most medical and beauty experts agree that all skin types benefit from effective and safe moisturizing products. For many people with sensitive skin, it is often a trial and error exercise to find the right products for their needs. You should stop using any facial cream or body lotion that causes adverse side effects and consult a doctor if necessary.

Sensitive skin products usually contain specific ingredient types to reduce the likelihood of an allergic reaction and to provide the best possible moisturizing benefits. Dermatology experts suggest looking for skin care products that contain antioxidant ingredients, including green tea extracts, licorice root extract, pomegranate, and chamomile. These ingredients are considered incredibly useful in fighting free radicals and reducing the signs of aging. A good lotion for sensitive skin is also likely to contain sunscreen ingredients as well. Dermatologists usually suggest using a product with an SPF of 15 or greater for the best results.

Pomegranates provide antioxidants in skin lotion.
Pomegranates provide antioxidants in skin lotion.

The ingredients in the lotion for sensitive skin are important, and so are the ingredients that are left out. People with sensitive skin usually benefit from avoiding products containing fragrance of any kind. These scents are typically synthetic and often cause disastrous effects on the skin, such as hot feelings, rashes, and painful blemishes. Skin care products containing alcohol or various acids commonly used in moisturizers are discouraged as well. Experts suggest choosing lotions and moisturizers that contain ten or fewer ingredients as a good rule of thumb.

People with sensitive skin should test lotion on their hands before applying it to their face to see how their skin reacts.
People with sensitive skin should test lotion on their hands before applying it to their face to see how their skin reacts.

Sensitive skin can be a problem for people with all skin types. The best lotion for sensitive skin to meet your needs should be formulated to correctly treat sensitive skin and benefit your skin type. People with dry and sensitive skin will require products with heavy moisturizers, such as lanolin. Those with oily or combination skin may benefit from products designed to minimize breakouts and not clog the skin's pores. Normal skin types are encouraged to choose a moisturizer for sensitive skin that also contains suitable ingredients and is the right consistency for maintaining their skin's feel and appearance.

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    • Pomegranates provide antioxidants in skin lotion.
      By: volff
      Pomegranates provide antioxidants in skin lotion.
    • People with sensitive skin should test lotion on their hands before applying it to their face to see how their skin reacts.
      By: Africa Studio
      People with sensitive skin should test lotion on their hands before applying it to their face to see how their skin reacts.
    • Fragrance-free lotions and moisturizers are recommended for people who have sensitive skin.
      By: Mikhail Malyugin
      Fragrance-free lotions and moisturizers are recommended for people who have sensitive skin.
    • A good lotion for sensitive skin is likely to contain sunscreen ingredients.
      By: Maksim Å meljov
      A good lotion for sensitive skin is likely to contain sunscreen ingredients.