How to Soothe Super Dry, Sensitive Skin

If your skin is feeling extra dry, tight, or just plain uncomfortable, we get it. Finding the right products can feel like detective work—one wrong move, and suddenly your skin is angry. But don’t worry, we’ve got you.

Before anything, check in with a dermatologist to rule out eczema or other underlying concerns. If that’s the case, there are plenty of options to help calm things down. Once you know what’s up, it’s all about building a hydrating, skin-loving routine that keeps your skin soft, smooth, and happy.

A No-Stress Routine for Dry, Sensitive Skin

The goal? Less irritation, more hydration. That means sticking to fragrance-free, ultra-moisturizing, and non-irritating cleansers, creams, and sunscreens. Even if your face is fine, sensitive skin tends to flare up on the body—especially in rough, dry patches. A gentle routine helps everything else work better, so your skin isn’t fighting to stay balanced.

Hydration is everything. The right moisturizer makes a huge difference, but not just any formula will do. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and omega fatty acids—they drench your skin in moisture without irritation. Also, lock it all in by applying moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This tiny step? Game-changer.

What to Avoid (Because Your Skin Deserves Better)

If your skin is already struggling, don’t make it work harder. Skip anything with fragrance, essential oils, harsh surfactants, citrus, or drying alcohols. Even natural scents can trigger irritation, so keep it simple. Also, limit long, hot showers—they feel amazing, but they strip away moisture fast.

Your hands? They need extra love. Soaps (even fancy ones) can be too harsh, so switch to a creamy body wash and follow up with a fragrance-free moisturizer every time you wash your hands. Little changes like this make a big difference.