8 Ingredients to Look For if You Have Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, chances are that you have been frustrated when trying a new skincare product resulted in the assumed irritation. It may be a while before you try anything new again for fear of the same reaction. You might be ready to give up completely. Don’t throw in the towel just yet! Sensitive skin shouldn’t keep you from developing your own skincare routine. The key is finding the products and ingredients that result in happy, healthy skin. Here are eight ingredients to look for if you have sensitive skin.

1 - Aloe Vera

If you have ever stayed out in the sun too long without sunscreen you know the magical effect aloe vera can have on your skin. Healing sunburnt skin is only one of the ways aloe is great for skin sensitivity. It also acts as a moisturizer that can help prevent skin drying. Aloe is full of nutrients great for overall skin health and even fight the signs of aging.

2 - Honey

Next time you sweeten your tea with honey consider this, that sweet nectar is actually an incredible compound made by tiny little alchemists who love flowers, live in groups, and can fly. Of the many reasons to save the bees, honey is top on our list. Honey is full of antioxidants and nutrients. It is anti-bacterial and has anti-inflamatory properties. There is a reason that everyone’s favorite cartoon bear had such a natural glow.

3 - Chamomile

Speaking of tea, Chamomile is another great skincare ingredient that is more commonly associated with a hot beverage. Chamomile is full of flavonoids and antioxidants which can help reduce the signs of aging. You will often see it under the alias Bisabolol on the back of some products.

4 - Shea Butter

This is one you see in skincare all the time. Shea Butter, or Butyrospermum parkii, is a plant lipid that helps soften and sooth the skin. Like many of the other ingredients we have listed Shea Butter is rich in antioxidants. When used topically shea butter does not seem to produce any allergic sensitizations. Shea butter is often found in products intended for use on dry skin such as a moisturizer or stretch mark cream.

5 - Oatmeal

You probably already know oatmeal as a rich source of fiber in your balanced breakfast. But, did you know that it’s actually great for your skin? Oats can help fight dryness, act as a moisturizer, and even cleanse pores and exfoliate the skin when used as a scrub.

6 - Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a super moisturizer. Individuals with mild to moderate xerosis, dry skin, show significant improvements in skin hydration and lipid levels on the surface of the skin. Another plus – it smells incredible! Coconut oil will leave your skin feeling great and you thinking of days on the beach.

7 - Calendula Officinalis

No it’s not a spell. It’s the Latin name for the pot marigold, a flower native to Europe with some shocking dermal benefits. Calendula prevents acute dermatitis better than traditional methods. One of our favorite uses of this ingredient is in creams designed to soothe skin effected by radiation therapy.

8 - Squalane

Squalane is a lipid commonly sourced from olives. It is a rich source of antioxidants and is often used as emollient. When used in cosmetics squalene produces very little irritative effects. Squalane is naturally produced by skin cells, so it only makes sense that it is an important ingredient to look for in your next run to the beauty aisle. Scintera uses squalene in our Silicone Scar Gel to ensure a smooth and pleasant application.

This list is not exhaustive. It won't pinpoint the perfect skincare product for your skin. It will give you an idea of what to look for next time you try to find the right skincare product. Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is unique. What works for someone else may not work for you. No matter how frustrating it may be to live with sensitive skin, there are ingredients and products out there that can help you achieve your skincare goals. Hopefully, this list of ingredients can help point you in the right direction.