Dry, sensitive winter skin? Not this year. When I was in middle school, I dealt with mild cystic acne that just wouldn’t go away. The dermatologist’s office practically became my second home as I went back and forth, trying new prescription creams and skincare routines, but nothing seemed to work.
Eventually, I went on Accutane, which proved to be a lifesaver. After finishing the treatment, though, my skin type completely changed from oily to dry and sensitive. Especially during the winter months, my skin became even more sensitive due to the cold, leading to redness and cracking.
Through trial and error in learning what doesn’t work and what does, I’ve found some amazing products. Here are some of my favorite products that have revived my skin to a hydrated and healthy barrier that you should definitely try this winter:
- Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Barrier Face Cream
-
Avène is one of my favorite skincare brands because of its focus on sensitive or irritated skin. This cream is designed to protect, soothe, and heal skin that’s red or irritated. It’s meant to help restore hydration levels for skin restoration within 48 hours with an 80% reduction in discomfort. I apply it in the morning and before I go to sleep for the best results.
The key ingredients that make Cicalfate a magical cream are copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, and micronized sucralfate. The zinc and copper prevent the skin from bacterial growth while the sucralfate stimulates the skin’s healing process, replenishing the skin’s barrier.
Its effectiveness in quick relief for skin problems makes this product highly valuable in your routine. You can purchase Cicalfate on Avène’s website or at your nearest Walgreens.
- ATOPALM Intensive Moisturizing Cream
-
You know that feeling when your skin gets so tight you can barely move your face, it’s itchy, flaky, and uncomfortable? That’s dry skin.
The ATOPALM Intensive Moisturizer has been the only thing that truly fixes this problem for me. Seasonal weather changes always make my skin act up, but ATOPALM keeps my skin hydrated without making it oily.
Founded by a doctor wanting to treat his son’s severe eczema, ATOPALM originated in South Korea with an emphasis on sensitive skin. What’s unique about this moisturizer is that it has a multi-lamellar emulsion (MLE).
Under a microscope, this formula shows a special cross pattern that’s identical to the pattern of the natural lipid of healthy skin. Once on the skin, the ingredients take the place of the damaged lipid layer, tricking the skin into a healthy and naturally restored one.
In using this product in your routine, the skin begins to self-protect and hydrate. To purchase the ATOPALM moisturizer, you can browse Walmart or Target online only.
- Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray
-
The story of Avène begins in a spring in France. A horse with skin problems reportedly healed after bathing in the spring, leading to the water’s reputation for soothing sensitive skin.
By 1871, Avène Thermal Spring Water was shipped to treat burn victims, and in 1990, the modern skincare brand Eau Thermale Avène was officially established.
The thermal spring water spray is clinically proven to soften and soothe the skin due to its biological properties. The ultra-fine refreshing mist has a neutral pH balance that instantly reduces sensitivity.
It can be used after cleansing, to set makeup, and even for a midday refresher. As I use it, it’s improved my skin texture and doesn’t dry out my skin, but instead softens and restores its barrier. You can purchase the spray at your nearest Walgreens or Avène website.
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment
-
After using Accutane, Aquaphor became my lifesaver. My skin texture was on the drier side around my forehead and nose area, which this ointment has been able to improve.
The key ingredients are petrolatum, glycerin, and panthenol. When I use it on my dry problem areas, my skin instantly feels soft and plump. Incorporating this along with your general moisturizer won’t disappoint you. You can find any Aquaphor product at your nearest drugstore.
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum (with Ceramides)
-
I love using hyaluronic acid before my moisturizer, and The Ordinary has a great water-based serum that delivers instant hydration. The ceramides in the formula support a healthier and smoother skin barrier, and the B5 vitamins lock in additional moisture.
What I love about The Ordinary is that it’s very accessible and affordable; you can find it at Target and Ulta Beauty. This serum has truly changed the elasticity of my skin and brightened my undertones.
Finding the right products for dry, sensitive skin can feel overwhelming, especially when your skin has changed dramatically, like mine did after suffering from acne in my teenage years. However, through patience, research, and plenty of trial and error, I’ve discovered a handful of products that consistently calm, restore, and protect my skin barrier.
Each of these products has played a specific role in keeping my complexion hydrated and restored during the harsh winter months. If you’re struggling with dryness or irritation, consider adding one or two of these to your routine and see how your skin responds.
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest!