Working with My Sensitive Skin

My skin has been considered “sensitive” ever since I was a little kid. In elementary school, when using face paint for Halloween, I ended up with burn marks on my cheeks that lasted for days. I literally had lines etched into my face where the face paint had been. Another time, a couple years ago, I bought a turtle neck sweater I absolutely loved, and I ended up with a rash in the pattern of the sweater all down my back and shoulders. Even more recently, right before my sister Katie’s rehearsal dinner, my sister Sam put primer on my face and I ended up feeling this burning sensation as she was applying the rest of my make up. It turns out, my skin just couldn’t handle the primer, and we had to take it off ASAP.

Basically, my skin sensitivity comes from all sorts of places, although I’ve never really had a serious problem with acne or oily skin. My biggest issue is making sure that I can find products that work with my skin and don’t end up causing me any pain or reactions down the line. Does anyone else have this problem?

Here are a few of my favorite products that I know I can trust with my sensitive skin. I seriously don’t know what I would do without some of these!

  1. THIS Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream moisturizer. I use it every morning, and it works so well on my skin. I actually found this through my former roommate, Veruska, and I can’t imagine not using it. Since then, I’ve become invested in Khiel’s, and haven’t found a product yet that messes with my skin. It’s super hydrating, and just feels like a great way to start my day. I’ve used a lot of great moisturizers, but so far this one wins! 
  2.  When I’m traveling, these Neutrogena towelette makeup removers are my go-to. It’s so easy to take all of your makeup off, and I find that night calming ones literally feel better on my face. (Is it in my head? Probably.) Whenever I’m going on a trip, I stop at my local CVS and buy a pack of these! 
  3. If you know my beauty routine at all, you’ll know I’m extremely loyal to Lancome make up products. It’s one of the few brands where, across the board, I have run into zero issues. I use this liquid foundation daily, and it really does last the 24 hours it describes. I find it best to apply with this Real Techniques expert face brush. Both are staple pieces of my daily beauty routine! 
  4.  In addition to my morning moisturizer, I apply this Kiehl’s Gel Cream after washing my face at night. I find it really traps the moisture, and makes for a relaxing bed time routine. Jake loves this stuff too, and it’s great for having that nice cool feeling on your face before going to sleep. 100% recommend. 
  5. In addition to using the Lancome liquid foundation, I apply a quick layer of this Dual Finish Versatile Powder by Lancome. This really makes me feel like I give my make up a nice finish and really holds everything together. It’s a nice staple to have in your make up bag, and I’ve have honestly been using this stuff for years – wouldn’t ever switch it! The perfect powder, for sure. 
  6. Bath and Body has literally never failed me when it comes to body wash that is good for my skin. I hands down love this Warm Vanilla Sugar Moisturizing Body Wash – I use it daily, and can’t get enough. I have to say, I’ve tried most of their body washes/body gels, and I have never had a bad experience when it comes to a quality product for my skin. However, this one smells divine. 
  7. Have I bragged to you yet about Cremo Shaving Cream? I bet I have, haven’t I? I literally don’t care because I absolutely love this stuff. I use it every single time, and I barely have to use any to get the job done. Plus, the lavender one smells SO GOOD. It’s super moisturizing and, most importantly, truly works with my skin. 
  8. Last but not least, since discovering the world of face masks (check out one of the featured stories on my Instagram page to see my first ever face mask trial!), I’ve been trying all different kinds to see what I love most. Not surprisingly, Neutrogena is winning so far, with its Deep Clean Wash-Off Clay Face Mask. It’s super refreshing AND gentle. So far I think I’m liking the masks that I can rinse off rather than peel – what do you all think? 

 

Does anyone else struggle with sensitive skin and reactions to products? Let me know your favorites!