Protect and heal your skin.
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A multi-step, ingredient-rich skincare routine has practically become the gold standard. But too much of it can be just as risky as too little, as the overuse of AHAs, retinoids, and peels has weakened many of our skin barriers. That’s meant sensitive, easily irritated skin for many of us, myself included. The good news? Over the past year, the industry has woken up to the state of our delicate skin. There are a whole host of new products aimed at repairing the outermost layer of skin, from intensive treatments that speed recovery to soothing, regenerative, agricultural-based botanicals. The results are nourishing and, frankly, much needed. Below, you’ll find our favorite skin barrier-resurfacing products, including the best newly launched products and the true lipid-replenishing gems loved by dermatologists and editors alike.
Although Augustinus Bader has achieved cult status with its The Cream and The Rich Cream, this recently launched vitamin D-based rejuvenation system could be the brand’s new star. The Skin Infusion is a four-week intensive program aimed at accelerating skin cell renewal and barrier repair. It’s essentially a “skin reset.” Use the three included products morning and night before your serum and moisturizer. They’re ideal for targeting specific skin concerns, preparing for a big event, or simply supporting irritated skin when recovery is pressed for time.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo founded her line with the goal of protecting skin from irritants and external aggressors like UV rays and pollution. It’s her area of expertise, and the brand’s newest product, a soothing gel cream with ceramide complex, is designed to strengthen the lipid barrier and increase hydration. It’s quickly becoming known for its relaxing, redness-reducing properties. The cream’s pillowy feel is a not-so-small added bonus.
The basis of Lesse’s regenerating mist is “two barrier-renewing mushrooms, as well as centella, which is known for its barrier-strengthening properties,” explains the brand’s founder, Neada Deters. The mist is designed to take the best properties of a toner – hydration and balance – and enhance them by adding repairing elements. Regenerative mushrooms (tremella and butterfly tramete) strengthen the outer layer of the skin. The mist is perfect for hyperpigmented, dry and sensitive skin.
The dermatologists’ favorite
This list wouldn’t be complete without Skinceuticals’ iconic Lipid Replenishment Cream. The lotion matches the pH of our natural lipid barrier and is rich in ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids – all essential ingredients for repairing and maintaining the skin barrier.
Developed over two years, Murad’s Cellular Hydration Repair Mask combines blueberry seed oil (rich in fatty acids), hydrating hibiscus extract and soothing Canadian willowherb to strengthen skin during rest time. It’s an extra boost for dehydrated and over-exfoliated skin.
Tower 28th’s Recovery Cream went viral after its launch last summer, and for good reason. A favorite of Hailey Bieber and editors alike, the soft cream is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It works to nourish skin without clogging pores and contains ingredients specifically formulated for the most sensitive skin types.
Prickly pear seed oil – developed from nutrient-rich Moroccan cactus, anti-inflammatory jojoba oil and fatty avocado oil – are some of the ingredients in Dualist’s soothing, barrier-boosting facial oil. This is a versatile product, ideal for those looking to simplify overly complex routines without sacrificing results. It also feels incredibly lightweight and is safe for sensitive skin, a rarity for oils.
After a visit to your dermatologist…
While reparative products can be useful for anyone with overly irritated skin, those of us who regularly get facials, microneedling and in-office laser treatments could especially benefit from peptide-infused healing serums. A perennial favorite is Eighth Day’s Regenerative Serum, which stimulates cell renewal and is known for its smooth feel and anti-inflammatory properties.
I’ve been a fan of the Noble Panacea line, founded by NASA scientists, ever since I tried the brand’s incredibly hydrating Nourishing Lift Oil. The Absolute Active Replenishing Moisturizer, while a little more expensive, is arguably the ideal barrier-replenishing lotion for frequent travelers. Individually wrapped single doses contain retinol, soothing sesame oil, and antioxidant-rich goji berries in a time-release system. I took it with me on my trip from my home in Berlin to my family in Honolulu. You can pack for specific days and easily slip a dose into your carry-on.
Tata Harper has long been the queen of natural, plant-based skincare. Her Superkind Barrier Serum is a cocktail of organic botanical ingredients (26, to be exact), including soothing calendula flower buds and microbiome-balancing mondo root. It feels incredibly light on the skin and manages to be gentle without sacrificing effectiveness.
