11 best moisturisers for sensitive skin 2024 – to calm irritation and soothe reactive skin

Those of us with a reactive complexion will likely be in need of one of the best moisturisers for sensitive skin, to soothe, calm and de-escalate. If you fall into that category, finding the right kind of products is essential in order to stave off reactions and maintain the delicate balance between a healthy complexion and a reaction or irritation, which could look like anything from breakouts to redness and flaking or dry, sore spots. While your entire skincare routine is crucial to get right, finding your perfect moisturiser is a must.

You see, the moisturiser is the bookend of any skincare routine. Whether it's a rich night cream in the PM or an SPF-powered lotion in the morning time, it's the last thing you'll put on before makeup/facing the day and bedtime. That means it's responsible for locking in all the goodness from the rest of your routine – it acts as a barrier to keep hydration and nourishment in, and anything harmful out. Sensitive skin deserves the best moisturiser to do this, and to keep skin from breaking out, getting red and itchy or dry and tight. Let's get in to more of the how and why…

SKIP TO: What are the most common skincare concerns for sensitive skin? | What are the best ingredients for someone with sensitive skin? | How to choose the best moisturiser for sensitive skin | Our full reviews.

Meet the experts:

• Cosmetic Doctor and Dermatology Expert Dr Sonia Khorana.
• Dr Marisa Garshick, Certified Dermatologist and Skin Proud Consultant.

Best moisturisers for sensitive skin at a glance:

• Best moisturiser for sensitive skin overall: Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream for Sensitive Skin
• Best affordable moisturiser for sensitive skin: The Inkey List Omega Water Moisturiser
• Best moisturiser for sensitive skin for overnight: Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Cream
• Best rich moisturiser for sensitive skin: Dr.Jart Ceramidin Cream

Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream for Sensitive Skin

£15.75 at Amazon

The INKEY List Omega Water Cream

£9.99 at Cult Beauty

DERMALOGICA Stabilizing Repair Cream

£65 at Amazon

Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Cream

£38 at Cult Beauty

Cosmetic Doctor and Dermatology Expert Dr Sonia Khorana explains that sensitivity often presents through “inflammation (bumps/rashes/redness) and itching/dryness.” People with sensitivity are also “more prone to breakouts and a general discomfort after the skin comes into contact with a particular ingredient or environmental trigger.”

Dr Marisa Garshick, Certified Dermatologist and Skin Proud Consultant explains that usually, “those with sensitive skin often have a disrupted skin barrier,” which is why it's so important to build it back up again with hydrating ingredients and effective moisturisers.

“Those with sensitive skin should focus on ingredients that help to support the skin barrier, including ceramides and ingredients that help minimise the potential for dryness, such as humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Other ingredients that can be helpful include niacinamide, which helps to soothe the skin and reduce redness and inflammation,” says Dr Marisa.

Dr Sonia adds that squalane, panthenol and centella asiatica extract are also very effective and therefore should be prioritised.

Dr Kemi Fabusiwa, skincare expert and doctor, recommends following three main tips.

“Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products,” she begins. “Fragrances can be a common source of irritation for sensitive skin. Opt for products labeled as fragrance-free or hypoallergenic to minimise the risk of adverse reactions.”

Next, “avoid harsh chemicals,” she implores. "Ingredients like alcohol, artificial colours, and sulfates can be harsh on sensitive skin. Read the ingredient list and avoid products that
contain these potential irritants."

Finally, she says it's important to opt for gentle formulas. "Look for moisturisers specifically formulated for sensitive skin. These products typically have fewer ingredients and are designed to be gentle and non-irritating.

To help you pick, we’ve put together a carefully curated list of the best moisturisers for sensitive skin, including affordable options as well as the more premium picks for every taste and budget.