How to Care for Sensitive Skin: Tips and Recommendations

Caring for sensitive skin requires gentle products, smart habits, and extra attention to avoid irritation. You can help reduce redness, dryness, and discomfort with the right sensitive skin care routine in Scarsdale. Here are dermatologist-recommended tips from the Westchester Center for Dermatology to keep your skin healthy and calm.

Choose the Best Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Look for products labeled “hypoallergenic,” “fragrance-free,” and “non-comedogenic.” These options are less likely to irritate the skin. Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances.

Patch Test New Products

Before adding a new product to your routine, apply a small amount to your inner arm or behind your ear. Wait 24 hours to see if any redness, itching, or swelling occurs.

Follow a Gentle Skincare Routine

A simple skincare routine with a mild cleanser, hydrating moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen is ideal. Avoid excessive scrubbing or using too many active ingredients at once.

Avoid Common Triggers for Sensitive Skin

Certain ingredients and environmental factors can cause irritation. Common triggers for sensitive skin include:

• Fragrances
• Harsh exfoliants
• Extreme temperatures
• Pollution
• Stress

Use Hypoallergenic Skincare Products

Choosing hypoallergenic products can reduce the risk of reactions. Look for options with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and oat extract.

Moisturize Daily

Moisturizing sensitive skin helps strengthen your skin’s protective barrier. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration. For extremely dry or eczema-prone skin, consider products designed for eczema and dry skin.

Cleanse with Care

Use lukewarm water and a mild, non-foaming cleanser. Avoid over-washing your face, which can strip your skin’s natural oils and increase irritation.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Sensitive skin is prone to sun damage. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are gentle and less likely to cause irritation.

Be Selective with Makeup

Look for mineral-based makeup products that are fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin. Always remove makeup thoroughly before bed to avoid clogged pores and irritation.

Manage Skin Flare-Ups

If your skin becomes irritated, apply a cool compress to soothe discomfort. Using calming ingredients such as aloe vera or colloidal oatmeal can also help. For persistent redness or flare-ups, consult with our board-certified dermatologists at Westchester Center for Dermatology.

Consider Professional Treatments

If you experience ongoing sensitivity or uneven skin texture, treatments like chemical peels for sensitive skin can help improve your skin’s appearance with minimal irritation. A dermatologist can recommend the best approach for your skin type.

One of our esteemed doctors, Dr. David Kriegel, was named an outstanding practicing doctor of New York in 2024 through MSP Communications’ peer review. The results were published in The New York Times Sunday Magazine on May 4, 2025.

Schedule a Consultation

For personalized advice on sensitive skin care, schedule a consultation with our experienced dermatologists at Westchester Center for Dermatology. Our board-certified doctors will listen to your skin concerns and help you manage your sensitive skin.

Westchester Center for Dermatology is located in Scarsdale and near patients in Hasting on Hudson, Crestwood, Tuckahoe, Thornwood, Pleasantville, Harrison, Hawthorne, and Purchase.