With a high number of Australian women claiming to have sensitive and intolerant skin, finding the best product to soothe the condition and provide treatment and hydration can be challenging. La Roche-Posay has earned its reputation as a preferred dermatologist’s partner skincare brand due to its minimalist formulas, rigorous testing and stringent formulation charter. We talked to Dermatologist, Dr Cara McDonald (Complete Skin Specialists, VIC) to get her expert advice on sensitive skin and what can help.
Many people are finding that they’re more prone to sensitive skin. What is the difference between sensitive and reactive skin?
Sensitive and reactive skin are different conditions but have some similar features that often coexist. Sensitive skin is a common skin type in the population. It’s usually long-standing or life-long and may affect up to 50% of individuals. It’s characterised by unpleasant sensations such as burning, stinging or a tight feeling which cannot be attributed to another specific cause such as dermatitis or rosacea. It is commonly associated with poor tolerance to skin care products, and may be exacerbated by physical and environmental triggers such as irritating products or temperature changes.
LA ROCHE POSAY Toleriane Ultra Minimalist Daily Moisturiser
Reactive skin, is skin that is prone to irritation and rashes. The skin may feel very similar with burning, stinging or itch but usually presents with associated visual changes on the skin. This is most commonly a rash which may be red, dry, peeling and/or bumpy. Those with sensitive skin are prone to developing reactive skin. Reactive skin usually results from external irritations such as harsh skin care products, excessive cleansing or environmental irritants.
LA ROCHE POSAY Hyalu B5 Serum
There are so many products on the market that claim to help. What should people be looking out for in a product that could help?
Those with sensitive or reactive skin, need to limit the number of products applied to the skin, and in particular, avoid ingredients that are known to cause irritation and allergy on the skin. The products used should have a reduced number of ingredients and be free from alcohol, fragrances and other known regulated allergens. They should have a reduced number of preservatives and be specifically
formulated for sensitive skin. The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Range is particularly effective, as it follows all these guidelines and also includes a hero ingredient – NeurosensineTM – which actively (and immediately) targets the unpleasant sensations experienced in sensitive skin.
LA ROCHE POSAY Effaclar Duo Plus
What is it about La Roche Posay Toleriane range that can help calm sensitive skin? What one soothing product should everyone have in their kit?
The Toleriane range is specifically formulated for sensitive skin with a minimalistic formula which reduces the chance of irritation or allergy in sensitive skin. The dermatologist-approved products will protect the skin but also provide an optimal environment for skin repair. The Toleriane range is infused with Shea Butter and Glycerine to hydrate the skin and La Roche-Posay’s unique, soothing Thermal Spring Water to help calm inflammation.
My go-to soothing product is Toleriane Ultra Daily Moisturiser. This can be used on all skin types and is safe to use for those prone to allergic reactions. It contains NeurosensineTM to target the increased sensitivity and unpleasant sensations experienced in sensitive skin. The Toleriane range also includes Toleriane Ultra Light for combination/oily skins, and an Overnight Moisturiser to address the occurrence of discomfort and redness upon awakening. Toleriane moisturisers showcase elegant, fast-absorbing textures that effortlessly melt into the skin making them easy to apply.
Beyond La Roche-Posay’s acclaimed Toleraine range, what are some of the cult products of the brand that everyone should try?
For me, the La Roche-Posay range is all about the ability to reduce inflammation and irritation in many skin conditions, whist simultaneously protecting the skin from the external environment and ultraviolet light. It is dedicated to creating a better life for sensitive skin. My favourite products include:
Anthelios XL Ultra-Light Fluid SPF 50+ due to its very high SPF, excellent UVA protection, tolerability in all skin types and non-greasy, non-sticky texture that disappears into the skin creating an ideal base for makeup.
Efflaclar Duo (+) is ideal for those with congested skin or acne prone skin. It actively decreases inflammation and redness, reduces congestion and moderates oil production to promote a more uniform, healthier-looking complexion.
Hyalu B5 Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Serum is a calming, gel-textured serum formulated with re-plumping Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate the skin and improve the barrier function to retain moisture. It improves the skin’s ability to repair whilst soothing inflamed skin.
When it comes to keeping your skin hydrated, what are your top tips?
Water passes from the inside the body out to the external environment. Reducing water loss and keeping the skin hydrated are dependent on a good quality moisturiser, and keeping the skin healthy so that its barrier function works optimally. Skin conditions like dermatitis and sun damage affect the barrier function and lead to dehydrated skin. I recommend using Toleriane Ultra Daily Moisturiser as it will reduce water loss and create an optimal environment for skin repair. Sun protection is a must as UV damage will stop the skin from working as it should.
Connect with La Roche-Posay
Online www.laroche-posay.com.au
Instagram @larocheposayuaunz #madeforsensitive #toleriane
Facebook @larocheposayaunz
Leave a Reply