The term “sensitive skin” is used by more than half of all UK adults to describe their skin — yet it encompasses a wide range of different underlying conditions, from a genuinely disrupted skin barrier to mild rosacea to contact dermatitis. Understanding which applies to you makes treatment far more effective.

What Causes Sensitive Skin?

True skin sensitivity usually involves one or more of the following: an impaired epidermal barrier that allows irritants and allergens to penetrate more easily, a hypersensitive sensory nervous system in the skin that triggers stinging or burning in response to benign stimuli, underlying conditions such as atopic eczema, rosacea or contact dermatitis, or a disrupted skin microbiome. External factors that damage the skin barrier and cause or worsen sensitivity include: overuse of actives (retinoids, acids), harsh cleansing, low humidity environments (central heating, air conditioning), UV radiation, pollution, and fragranced products.

The Ingredients to Avoid with Sensitive Skin

Fragrances — both synthetic fragrance and natural essential oils are the leading cause of contact allergic dermatitis from skincare. There is no meaningful distinction between “natural” fragrance and synthetic fragrance in terms of sensitisation risk. Even products labelled “unscented” may contain masking fragrances. Choose products specifically labelled “fragrance-free” (not just “unscented”). Alcohol denat — denatured alcohol disrupts the skin barrier and strips lipids. Found in many toners and “mattifying” products. Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) — a surfactant used in cleansers and toothpastes. A well-established skin irritant, particularly for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Choose SLS-free alternatives. Physical scrubs — abrasive particles cause micro-tears in sensitised skin. Chemical exfoliation with low-concentration AHAs is gentler. Very high concentrations of actives — high-percentage vitamin C, AHAs at low pH, and strong retinoids should be introduced gradually and may need to be avoided entirely.

The Aveeno Approach: Colloidal Oatmeal

Aveeno’s key ingredient is colloidal oatmeal — finely milled oats that have been clinically proven to: restore skin barrier lipids, reduce TEWL (transepidermal water loss), modulate skin pH, and have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. It has an excellent safety profile and is recommended for eczema-prone and sensitive skin by dermatologists. The range includes daily moisturising lotions, skin relief formulas and shower gels.

Avène Thermal Spring Water

Avène products are built around thermal spring water from Avène, France. This water has a uniquely low mineral content, a neutral pH, and contains selenium and silica. It has been clinically demonstrated to reduce skin reactivity in multiple studies. The Avène Skin Recovery Cream and Tolerance Extreme ranges are specifically designed for highly sensitive and reactive skin, including post-procedure skin.

Browse our Skin Conditions and Skincare range at Huncoat Pharmacy. Related: Intimate Health Guide.

At Huncoat Pharmacy: Avène sensitive skin range, Browse sensitive skin products.