Sensitive skin routine.

Sensitive skin is a common condition affecting millions worldwide. In recent years, the number of people experiencing skin sensitivity has increased by over 50%, likely due to exposure to daily aggressors such as pollution, extreme temperatures and UV light, alongside harsh skincare actives and lifestyle factors like stress, screen time and poor-quality sleep. While we can't fully control the daily stressors causing sensitivities, we can show our skin some TLC to help calm and soothe compromised skin. Your sensitive skin requires special care and treatment – and we've got that covered.  

With 50+ years of rigorous testing and dermatological research behind us, including comprehensive allergy testing since day one, we have always been committed to skin safety, in service of all skin. Having sensitive skin doesn't mean you can't get great results from your routine, it's just about choosing wisely. In this article, we are taking it right back to basics, covering what sensitive skin is, detailing some of the most common causes and symptoms, and explaining how to care for sensitive skin. We'll also cover our broad range of dermatologist-guided sensitive skincare products, expertly formulated to deliver great results, without irritation. 

Table of Contents

1. What is sensitive skin?

2. What causes sensitive skin?

3. Clinique products designed for sensitive skin:

- Best face wash for sensitive skin.

- Best cleanser for sensitive skin.

- Best exfoliator for sensitive skin.

- Best moisturiser for sensitive skin.

What is sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is a condition that makes your skin more prone to irritation and allergic reactions than other skin types. People with sensitive skin may experience redness, itchiness, burning sensations or flakiness more often than others.

These symptoms are often localised to the hands, face and neck, however they can occur on any part of the body. By understanding the underlying causes of the condition, you can select sensitive skin care to help reduce flare-ups and avoid any irritation. 

What causes sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin can be caused by several factors, including genetics, environmental and lifestyle factors and the use of skincare products that contain harsh active ingredients and chemicals.

Many people inherit sensitive skin from their parents, as genetics play a significant role in determining your skin's sensitivity. If your family history is known to have this issue, there's a likelihood that you will also experience sensitivities.

Certain environmental factors, such as pollution and UV rays, can also have a negative effect on skin. Additionally, exposure to extreme temperatures or dry air during winter can exacerbate existing sensitivities. This is why it's so important to including SPF in your sensitive skin routine.

Finally, using skincare products containing harsh chemicals, fragrances and preservatives can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. This is why our experts recommend gentle, effective, soothing skincare products for sensitive skin, as these will help calm and nourish your skin.

How to care for sensitive skin.

Selecting skincare products for sensitive skin can be tricky, but you can rest assured that all Clinique formulas are allergy-tested and 100% fragrance-free, ensuring the utmost safety and efficacy. Many of our skincare formulas are tailored to specific skin types and concerns – and sensitive skin is no exception. Our experts recommend adding the following products to your sensitive skin routine:

Best facial soap for sensitive skin:

The Clinique All About Clean Liquid Facial Soap is a gentle yet effective facial cleanser that works well with sensitive skin. The facial soap contains a soft, non-drying lather that loosens surface flakes, removes dirt and debris and protects the skin's natural moisture balance.

What's more, this face wash for sensitive skin comes in different formulations to suit different skin types – from very dry, to combination, to oily – ensuring that you're covered no matter your skin type. To use, simply lather between palms with tepid water and massage over a makeup-free face and neck. Rinse thoroughly, then pat the skin dry. Be sure to use both during the day and night to keep your skin clean, comfortable and refreshed.

Best cleanser for sensitive skin:

To remove stubborn makeup, dirt, and debris, we recommend the Clinique Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam. This lightweight formula creates a plush, velvety-soft foam that cleanses sensitive skin with care, leaving the skin feeling fresh and comfortable.

To use, simply shake a few times and press the nozzle to dispense the velvety soft foam onto your hands. Gently apply the foam to your face to remove oil and grime. Rinse off with tepid water (hot water can exacerbate sensitive skin symptoms) and pat dry. 

Best exfoliator for sensitive skin: 

After cleansing your skin, it's important to ensure that the skin is exfoliated. This step removes dead skin cells that can leave your skin looking dull and uneven, plus it helps prep for better absorption of hydrating serums and moisturisers. Selecting an appropriate exfoliator for sensitive skin can be particularly challenging due to the risk of irritation and redness. Different skin types have varying sensitivities, and finding a product that effectively exfoliates without causing discomfort can be difficult.

The Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1.0 Twice A Day Exfoliator offers a safe and effective solution. It is a super gentle, alcohol-free liquid exfoliator containing glycerin, witch hazel and sodium hyaluronate, formulated to exfoliate, tone and refresh the skin while balancing its pH levels. Clinique's range of Clarifying Lotions caters to various skin types, providing options for dry sensitive, very dry, dry combination, combination oily and very oily skin types.

Best moisturiser for sensitive skin:

Dry skin can exacerbate itchiness and discomfort, making hydration especially important for people with sensitive skin.

If you're looking for the best moisturiser for sensitive skin, we recommend a two-step hydration process to ensure your skin is sufficiently quenched – starting with the Moisture Surge™ Hydro-Infused Lotion. This lightweight formula is powered by hyaluronic acid to instantly plump the skin and create a "moisture reservoir" for ideal hydration, while soothing aloe vera bioferment is a nutrient-rich ingredient that helps the skin retain moisture. The lotion also contains acetyl glucosamine to help smooth the skin's texture, leaving your skin smooth and glowing. To use, apply on clean skin during the morning and night, patting onto the face and neck.

After applying the hydrating lotion, the next step is our best moisturiser for sensitive skin: Moisture Surge™ 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator. These two products work together to help boost and retain your skin's moisture, without any irritation or sensitivity. 

Moisture Surge™ 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator is a refreshing, oil-free, gel-based moisturiser that locks in moisture and provides an instant hydration boost, making it an ideal moisturiser for sensitive skin. It’s also built with aloe vera bioferment and hyaluronic acid, which help skin to attract and retain moisture for refreshing, lasting hydration.

To use, simply apply a small amount on your fingertips and gently massage onto the face. You can expect your skin to feel soothed and hydrated in as little as three seconds. This moisturiser should be used both morning and night for best results, but it's gentle enough to top up throughout the day, as and when you need a hydration boost.

In conclusion, caring for sensitive skin requires a gentle, considered approach. Less really is more with sensitivies, so it's best to avoid any harsh actives like retinoids or AHA/BHAs. By using Clinique's range of sensitive skin products, you can take comfort in knowing that your skincare routine has been dermatologist-developed and approved to reduce the chances of irritation.

Shop Clinique skincare for sensitive skin.