All the Best Moisturisers That Won’t Cause Sensitive Skin to Freak Out

If you’ve got sensitive skin, you know how tricky it can be to find a moisturiser that plays nice with your easily upset complexion.

One foul move—or should we say, one errant skincare choice—and a sensitivity flareup could leave your face feeling cranky for days.

Below, we tell you how to know whether you’re dealing with sensitivity issues, the causes to be aware of, and (of course!) the best moisturisers for sensitive skin.

Firstly, What Is Sensitive Skin?

‘Sensitive skin’ is a bit of a blanket term used to describe skin that’s prone to irritation.

You’ll know you’ve got sensitive skin or you’re experiencing a reaction from skincare if your face feels hot, tingly, dry, or flaky—or even breaks out in a rash.

What Causes Sensitive Skin?

Many things can cause issues for sensitive skin, and these causes aren’t universal.

However, studies on sensitive skin have found that sensitivity is most commonly triggered by environmental factors (such as pollution, sun, dust, and extreme temperatures) and topical products (such as skincare).

If you experience reactions, it’s a good idea to keep a journal of flare-ups and list what your skin has been exposed to.

This practice will help you identify what causes sensitivity for you personally and, it’s hoped, avoid these things in the future.

What Is the Best Moisturiser for Sensitive Skin?

Now, let’s get to the fun bit: the products!

From the best face moisturiser for sensitive skin prone to redness to our fave moisturiser for extra sensitive skin, here are some of our picks for the best moisturisers for sensitive skin in Australia.

1. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Light Cream

What it is: An ultra-light moisturiser for dry, sensitive skin.

Why it’s so good: When you’re dealing with more than one skin concern—such as sensitivity and redness—things can get tricky.

But renowned French skincare brand La Roche-Posay really shines when it comes to caring for difficult skin.

Toleriane Dermallergo Light Cream is one of the best face moisturisers for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Its lightweight texture features Thermal Spring Water to cool and soothe.

 Shop it here:

Tired of scrolling? Take our moisturiser finder and find the perfect moisturiser for your needs... or continue reading our roundup of best moisturisers for sensitive skin below.

2. Embryolisse Lait-Creme Sensitive Cream

What it is: A fragrance-free French pharmacy moisturiser for sensitive skin.

Why it’s so good: This face moisturiser for sensitive skin is a non-scented version of cult favourite Embryolisse Lait Crème Concentré Moisturiser.

Lait-Creme Sensitive is one of our recommended moisturisers for sensitive skin thanks to its caring formula, which is suitable for use even on babies and children.

This paraben-free formula is made with 98% naturally derived ingredients including Shea Butter, Beeswax, and Aloe Extract. Plus, it’s an excellent multitasker.

Use it as a makeup primer, hydrating mask, makeup remover, and after-shave cream too.

Shop it here:

3. Avène A-Oxitive Day Smoothing Water-Cream

What it is: A brightening cream even sensitive skins will love.

Why it’s so good: As those with sensitive skin know all too well, illuminating skincare products don’t always play nice with easily irritated complexions.

In fact, luminising ingredients can quickly trigger a flare-up.

Enter: Avène A-Oxitive Day Smoothing Water-Cream. This mild moisturiser for sensitive skin is dosed with gradual-release Vitamin C (Ascorbyl Glucoside) to brighten, along with Hyaluronic Acid to moisturise.

 Shop it here:

4. Bioderma Sensibio AR - Daily Soothing & Anti-Redness Care

What it is: A calming moisturiser for inflamed skin.

Why it’s so good: With redness-reducing properties and a non-greasy finish, Bioderma Sensibio AR - Daily Soothing & Anti-Redness Care is one of the best face creams for very sensitive skin.

This gentle moisturiser contains Canola, Allantoin, and Enoxolone to calm upset skin and promote a healthier skin barrier.

Shop it here:

5. Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream

What it is: A deeply hydrating formula for dry, sensitive skin.

Why it’s so good: No edit on the best moisturising creams for sensitive skin would be complete without this one.

Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream contains restorative lipids, nourishing essential minerals, and Thermal Spring Water.

The cream works to reduce inflammation while combatting dry and dehydrated skin.

Shop it here:

Which Skincare Ingredients Should Sensitive Skin Types Avoid?

The causes of skin sensitivity are unique to each individual person, so it’s impossible to provide an exhaustive list of ingredients that result in reactions.

That said, researchers have found that a few ingredients irritate sensitive skin quite commonly, according to researchers:

• Fragrances (whether artificial or natural),

• Preservatives,

• Alpha-hydroxy acids,

• Alcohol,

• Propylene glycol (a hydrating ingredient), and

• Sulphates.

We hope you’ve found this guide helpful. Now that you’re armed with plenty of advice, you can add one of the best moisturisers for sensitive skin to your personal skincare routine.

For more advice on caring for an easily irritated complexion, check out our story on the best makeup removers for sensitive skin.

Want more tips and product recommendations for sensitive skin? Check out the guides below...

• 5 Beginner Active Serums That Don't Flare Up My Sensitive Skin

• Is Your Skin Feeling Irritated? Try These 4 Calming Skincare Ingredients

• Ingredients to Avoid for Sensitive Acne Prone Skin

Still on the search for the perfect moisturiser? Try our moisturiser quiz to find the best moisturiser for your skin's needs


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