CREAM FOR DRY AND SENSITIVE SKIN: WHAT IT SHOULD CONTAIN AND WHAT TO AVOID

Dry and sensitive skin needs a different approach than normal skin. It tolerates less and irritates more quickly. Therefore, for this skin type, the ingredients matter more than the number of steps. We will look at what a cream should contain and what to avoid.

Dry or dehydrated skin

First, a small but important distinction. Dry skin has a permanent lack of lipids. Dehydrated skin has a lack of water and can be temporary.

Dry skin primarily needs nourishment, i.e., fats. Dehydrated skin needs water bound in the skin. However, both problems often go hand in hand. Sufficient lipids help create a functional skin barrier that limits excessive water evaporation from the skin. This allows the skin to retain hydration much better. We explain the connection with the barrier in the article The skin barrier and how it works.

What dry and sensitive skin needs

For very sensitive skin, a simple rule applies: fewer ingredients, a clear purpose, no unnecessary irritation.

Lipids, which the skin lacks, help. These are fatty acids and fats similar to its own. They help replenish the protective layer and soothe tension.

Suitable ingredients

Welcome in the composition are:

• plant and animal lipids
• ceramides and fatty acids
• simple, clear composition
• gentle, well-tolerated oils

Unsuitable ingredients

On the contrary, sensitive skin is often burdened by:

• high alcohol content
• strong fragrance and dyes
• aggressive preservatives
• long and unclear composition

Hydration versus nourishment

This is a common misunderstanding. Hydration provides water. Nourishment provides lipids. Dry skin usually needs both, but nourishment is often more important for it.

Anhydrous balms primarily provide lipids. That's why they are effective for very dry skin. How to choose a specific product is discussed in the article how to choose a cream for skin barrier repair.

What care proves effective

For dry and sensitive skin, anhydrous cosmetics with a simple composition are worthwhile. Bohemian Balm is based on bioidentical tallow, manufactured in the Czech Republic, and has a short ingredient list. It has been tested by the National Institute of Public Health, with positive results for skin prone to atopic eczema.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cream is suitable for very sensitive skin? A cream with a simple, lipid-based composition, without alcohol and strong fragrance.

What is the difference between dry and dehydrated skin? Dry skin lacks lipids, dehydrated skin lacks water. They often appear together.

Is hydration alone enough for dry skin? Usually not. Dry skin mainly needs lipid replenishment.

Is anhydrous balm suitable for the face? Yes, for dry and sensitive skin. Apply a thin layer to slightly damp skin.

Where to go next

Bohemian Balm is suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Anhydrous, with a simple composition, and clinically tested for skin prone to atopic eczema.

Choose care for dry and sensitive skin

With love and respect, Markéta