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Sensitive vs. sensitized skin—while the two categories often get intertwined, they’re vastly different in diagnosis. Learn what the difference between sensitive and sensitized skin is, what causes it, and how to manage it. Sensitive and sensitized skin is often used interchangeably—but they’re vastly different conditions. Having sensitive skin and experiencing sensitization can be confusing, frustrating, and often painful. But knowing which category your skin currently falls under (sensitive vs sensitized skin) will help you to soothe and repair effectively. Keep reading to learn the difference between sensitive and sensitized skin, what causes it, and how to manage it.Sensitive SkinSensitive skin is common. So common that some studies estimate that up to 70 percent of women report having sensitive skin. While there is no clinician definition of sensitive skin, it’s most likely characterized by unpleasant sensations or reactiveness, like redness, itching, discomfort, burning, and swelling. Sensitive skin is usually classified as a history of discomfort, likely someone with a genetic predisposition for sensitivity.Sensitized SkinAs the nearly identical name might suggest, sensitive skin and sensitized skin are very similar. But while sensitive skin is a skin type, sensitized skin is a temporary reaction, likely from over-exfoliation, aggressive treatments, environmental stressors, or certain ingredients in skincare products. Products like retinol, harsh exfoliating acids, and overly scented ingredients can trigger the skin barrier, causing sensitized skin.How to Manage Sensitive Skin and Repair Sensitized SkinSoothing and avoiding sensitivity triggers is an important aspect of sensitive skin—and it’s one of the best ways to repair sensitized skin, too. Additionally, finding a skincare ritual that doesn’t cause redness and itching is vital for sensitive skin. For sensitized skin, the ideal skincare regime is quite similar to sensitive skin, with a focus on paring down ingredients that are known irritants. When the barrier is damaged, it’s less likely to protect itself from common ingredients (even ones that haven’t irritated skin before), which is why a sensitive skin-approved regime can be beneficial for sensitized skin. Simplifying the daily skincare routine into a few soothing products can help skin heal faster.Plus, avoid the following common ingredients.FragranceAccording to Dermatology Times, fragrances are most likely to cause allergic contact dermatitis and they account for 30 to 45 percent of reactions in cosmetic products. They advise that fragrance-free formulas (or formulas that have minimal added fragrances) are best to avoid reactions, like redness, inflammation, and itching, with sensitive and sensitized skin.Exfoliating AcidsIf the skin is compromised, it’s best to avoid harsh exfoliating acids, including salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and citric acid. While they’re normally an effective solution for dead skin cell removal, sensitive and sensitized skin can be further irritated (even damaged with extremely aggressive formulas) by exfoliation. Avoid until skin is back to a healthy-looking state. Retinols While retinol is beloved by many dermatologists for its ability to speed up cellular turnover and increase collagen production, it can be far too abrasive for sensitive and sensitized skin in the middle of a flare-up. If you rely on a Vitamin A derivative, wait until skin is healed to continue usage.Best Products for Sensitive and Sensitized Skin If your skin is feeling red, irritated, or uncomfortable, reboot your skincare routine. A weakened skin barrier can make it difficult to find the right skincare, but consider the following gentle products to soothe and repair skin.Overnight Healing Treatment Try: Indigo Overnight Repair If you’re searching for an overnight treatment, try this healing balm, which visibly calms irritation and strengthens the skin’s barrier. The formula features the soothing powers of Japanese indigo, but also includes red sage root to calm visible irritation, ceramides to boost moisture reserves, and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate. In clinical studies, 100 percent of users saw an improvement in their skin barrier strength within four weeks. Snag this gift set, which is great for sensitive and sensitized skin. The kit includes the plumping Essence, the serum-in-moisturizer treatment Indigo Overnight Repair, and the nourishing Indigo Soothing Body Butter in one convenient kit. Not only does it leave skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished, but the $124-valued set is a steal at $99. A Gentle Cleanser Try: The Indigo Cleansing Balm A calming, nurturing cleanser (that still effectively cleanses) is necessary. We know harsh formulas can strip the barrier’s natural oils, leading to more damage, so a gentle cleanser is a crucial first step in your ‘skin barrier repair’ regime. This is why Tatcha is so excited to introduce you to one of our newest innovations: The Indigo Cleansing Balm. A Soothing Cream Try: The Indigo Calming Cream Transform stressed skin to strengthened skin with the newly updated Indigo Calming Cream. Our beloved fragrance-free cream has been proven to calm visible irritation and relieve itchy skin, thanks to Japanese indigo and colloidal oatmeal (an FDA-designated skin protectant). What sets this innovative cream apart from others (and even the Indigo Overnight Repair) is the addition of colloidal oatmeal, which has helped earn it the coveted National Eczema Association seal of approval for its ability to soothe irritated, eczema-prone skin on the face and beyond. Whether as a face cream or spot treatment, The Indigo Calming Cream offers a luxurious way to heal visibly stressed or eczema-prone skin for a calmer, stronger skin barrier.100 percent of panelists in a clinical study saw an improvement in softness and suppleness immediately, an improvement in the appearance of the skin barrier after one week, and an improvement in visible redness and evenness of skin tone after four weeks. The emotional benefits of using the new Indigo Calming Cream are worth noting, too. In a clinical study self-assessment questionnaire, 86 percent of panelists noted that the product left them feeling like their skin was healthier after just one week.

Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in the United States. And while experts aren’t exactly sure what mechanisms cause it, they agree that it’s highly treatable—perhaps using products you already have. By the time it shows up, it’s already too late. It arrives in patches, in splotches, or in bumps—and sometimes all three. Emotional stress can cause it, and it can also cause emotional stress on its own. It’s every skincare obsessive’s least favorite word: Eczema.It can also be scary, but it doesn’t have to be, because eczema is treatable, and very common. Next to acne, it’s the most prevalent condition in modern dermatology, affecting around 31 million Americans, according to the Cleveland Clinic. But its ubiquity does not make it any less menacing. Some eczema cases are mere annoyances that clear up on their own, while severe cases can invite complications like bacterial infections that require inpatient care.The biological mechanisms behind eczema aren’t exactly known. But the condition is common enough that we have a better understanding of how to take care of eczematous skin. Read on to learn a little more about what is happening under the dermis, and what steps to consider taking if you suffer from eczema.What is eczema?The National Eczema Association categorizes eczema as an inflammatory skin condition, and identifies seven distinct types of eczema. The most common, atopic dermatitis, is thought to be caused by an overactive immune response, and sometimes accompanies food allergies, hay fever, or asthma. Even the sound of the word itself, dense with consonants, seems to indicate an imbalance—the term comes from the Greek ekzema, or ekzein, meaning “to boil over.”Other types of eczema include contact dermatitis, an allergic reaction caused by a substance (like a beauty product) or a material (like a fabric or metal). Dyshidrotic eczema produces tiny, itchy boils that leak fluid; nummular eczema appears as circular, oozing patches of dry skin. There’s neurodermatitis, caused in part by excessive itching, and stasis dermatitis, caused in part by poor circulation in the legs. Lastly, there’s seborrheic dermatitis, or eczema of the scalp. How do I know if I have eczema? Each type of eczema has its distinctions, and with the help of a dermatologist, you should have no problem identifying which one to treat. All are visible to the naked eye. Telltale symptoms include red, inflamed skin with dry, flaky, or scaly texture that is rough to the touch. But the most obvious sign of eczema is the feeling of unbearable itchiness.Some who suffer from eczema describe the feeling as akin to ants crawling across the skin. Scratching eczema provides an immediate, fleeting relief, but risks significant injury to the skin, and could cause breakage, scarring, or infections. Is my eczema actually psoriasis?Psoriasis, another skin condition expressed by dry, red, inflamed skin, is often confused with eczema. The differences can be nuanced; according to the American Academy of Dermatologists, psoriasis in children often occurs on the face, scalp, knees and elbows, while eczema in adults tends to occur in the crooks of knees and elbows. Psoriasis happens when the body produces too many skin cells too quickly. It’s rarer than eczema, and can lead to other chronic issues, like diabetes. Your dermatologist should easily be able to tell the difference, and point you in the direction of effective treatment. Is eczema curable?As of now, there is no known cure for eczema. Experts are still not sure what exactly causes eczema, although it may have something to do with our genes and the factors in the environments around us.The good news is that there are many ways to treat eczema. All it takes is a little skincare wisdom—and a few tools on hand—to keep flare-ups under control. What shouldn’t I do for eczema?Almost as important as the things to put on your eczema: the things you should not, by any means, put on your eczema. If your skin is raging, avoid these common triggers.Don’t: Scratch. We know, we know. It feels so good. But think of eczema as an evil villain trying to ruin your skin: It wants you to scratch it, so that things can get worse. Not only can scratching be disruptive, to your sleep schedule, to your concentration, even your social life, but it can cause serious injury to the skin. Broken skin can lead to a bacterial infection or permanent scarring, according to Mount Sinai Hospitals. Resisting the urge requires a fair amount of self-control. It’s also necessary if you want your eczema to recede.Don’t: Irritate your skin. When your skin doesn’t agree with something, it’ll usually tell you. Contact dermatitis, the second most prevalent eczema, will often show up in response to a particular irritant. Even if you don’t suspect that your eczema is contact dermatitis, it’s wise to keep it far away from anything that you know irritates your skin—from plants you’re allergic to, to skincare ingredients that cause breakouts—when you’re dealing with a flare-up.Don’t: Use scalding water. Hot water can feel sensational on itchy skin. But because it tends to make our skin drier, it’s recommended to keep hot water away from any active eczema flare-ups. However, the National Eczema Association notes eczema benefits to soaking in a lukewarm bath. Lukewarm (not hot) water helps the skin absorb and retain hydration, and the relaxing effects of a warm bath can be palliative for eczema—as well as the body it’s attached to.Don’t: Skip body lotion. As a dermatologist said to the beauty website Byrdie, “the one common denominator of [eczema] treatment is moisturizing." Using a lotion approved by the National Eczema Association will help skin feel (and look) better faster. What should I do for eczema?Now it’s time to wrangle your eczema into submission. Dermatitis treatments vary, and may involve a skincare routine that includes hydrating and moisturizing the skin from the outside while calming inflammation from the inside. Here are a few common considerations for treating eczema.Do: Make a derm appointment. Easier said than done, right? But because eczema is a skin condition, it’s wise to consult a doctor who can accurately diagnose the issue. Your dermatologist may also be able to help recommend or prescribe medications, like antihistamines or corticosteroids, that can help quell the inflammatory response caused by dermatitis.Do: Use emollient products. Emollients, a category of product classified as softening the skin, make for some of the best lotions for eczema. According to the National Health Service, emollients are often used to manage dry skin and conditions like eczema, and their super hydrating properties make them ideal therapeutics. The rich texture of Tatcha’s Indigo Body Butter is perfectly suited to this task; Even a small amount spreads evenly across skin and forms an instant seal of moisture, so your skin can hold on to necessary hydration. Do: Try calming ingredients. In addition to hydrating textures, it’s a good idea to look for skincare ingredients that calm the skin, or otherwise have proven anti-inflammatory benefits. At Tatcha, we use Japanese indigo, a plant extract prized for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. We’re so inspired by the Japanese indigo extract for skin that we harnessed the powers (and name) of the therapeutic ingredient into our treasured Calming Collection, in products like The Indigo Calming Cream, a rich, fragrance-free daily moisturizer and soothing spot treatment that blends indigo with therapeutic colloidal oatmeal for quick relief and long-lasting hydration. (It’s a well decorated formula, with a National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.) More information on the best ingredients for sensitive skin can be found over here. Do: Consider your diet. There is evidence that changing what you eat can help your eczema from flaring up. As a dietician from the National Eczema Association points out, 70% of the human immune system resides in the gut, meaning the foods we eat have a direct impact on the inflammation in our bodies. Vitamins A, C, and D, plus fiber and zinc, are touted as being especially helpful for quieting oxidative stress and fortifying our immune system.And, of course: Drink plenty of water. While the water we drink doesn’t go directly to our skin cells, according to a mythbusting article from Vogue India, water is needed to support skin’s collagen production, and increased hydration means better blood flow throughout the body. And water helps our various systems flush waste. “Normal skin hydration increases with dietary water intake, particularly in those with prior lower water consumption,” reads a study from this year that looked at water intake and atopic dermatitis in children, while acknowledging that further investigations are needed. It’s a reminder of something we already know: It’s what's on the inside that counts, but it’s what’s on the outside that shows.

Tatcha is honored to have a collection of innovative, highly-effective face creams. But we often get asked about two of our most popular moisturizers: The Water Cream vs. The Dewy Skin Cream—which is best? Read on to discover which option is right for you. At Tatcha, we are truly honored to care for your skin. We aim to put the ‘care’ back into ‘skincare’ with each and every Tatcha product—and our collection of nutrient-rich, highly-effective face creams are some of our proudest innovations. One question we often receive, regarding two of our best-selling products, is: Tatcha Water Cream vs Dewy Skin Cream—which is best? There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the Tatcha Dewy vs Water Cream debate—the only correct answer is selecting the ideal moisturizer for you and uncovering the unique cream that can deliver the optimal level of hydration for your specific skin type. And that’s a question we can answer. Read below to uncover the differences between The Water Cream and The Dewy Skin Cream—and discover which option is right for you to unlock your healthiest-looking complexion yet.Why We Love The Water Cream Launched in 2017, The Water Cream took the world by storm, offering a refreshing burst of hydrating nutrients and pore-refining botanicals for balanced, healthy-looking skin. The Water Cream features wild rose and leopard lily to balance the skin, decongest pores, and minimize excess oil production. Plus the water-burst cream formula also includes our Hadasei-3 Complex, which includes Uji green tea to detoxify and prevent premature aging, Okinawa red algae to seal in moisture, and Akita rice to nourish and hydrate. Appearance-wise, the cream imparts a subtle, shine-free glow.Those with combination and oily skin will adore The Water Cream for its pore-reducing, balancing, and lightweight qualities. The unique formula delivers deep hydration, without leaving skin sticky or greasy, too. Oily skin types tend to shy away from face moisturizers because they can feel greasy or have used a hydrator in the past that led to clogged pores. But finding a lightweight moisturizer, like The Water Cream, balances oil and can make skin not only feel better, but also look healthier. In consumer studies, 95 percent of users found their skin looked brighter, more hydrated, and had a healthy-looking glow after four weeks of usage. Why We Love The Dewy Skin Cream Making its debut in 2019, the emollient-rich Dewy Skin Cream was specifically launched to give skin a natural glow and pair beautifully under makeup. The rich, moisturizing cream plumps skin for a dewy, healthy-looking appearance–thanks to antioxidant-packed Japanese purple rice, hyaluronic acid, and our superpowered Hadasei-3 Complex (to restore healthy radiance). The rich texture increases hydration, radiance, plumpness, and overall texture and firmness. When applied, the cream gives the skin a dewy and radiant glow.The Dewy Skin moisturizer is wonderful for a variety of skin types, but those with dry skin will treasure this cream. Dry skin needs extra emollients, ceramides, and peptides (all are present in this cream), which soften the skin’s surface and drench it with hydration. In consumer studies, 100 percent of users noticed an increase in hydration and an improvement in radiance and plumpness in two weeks of consistent use.Similarities: The Water Cream vs. The Dewy Skin Cream Both moisturizers are complexly hydrating and contain a handful of similar ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and our treasured Hadasei-3 Complex. They both also have a whisper of 23-karat-gold for a subtle, lit-from-within sheen.Differences: The Water Cream vs. The Dewy Skin CreamThere is a noticeable and intentional difference between the two moisturizers. The Water Cream is specifically designed for combination and oily skin, helping to target oil production and balance the skin. While The Dewy Skin Cream is ideal for drier skin types looking for more intense nourishment and hydration.Your preference between the two might also depend on your locale or time of year. If you live in an area of extreme humidity and heat or a cold, dry climate, your choice of moisturizer might alter depending on the skin’s needs at that time. For example, those with oily skin might need the extra hydration and support from The Dewy Skin Cream during extremely chilly, dry weather.Of course, both work beautifully under makeup, but they do have different finishes. The Water Cream has a pore-refining, light texture and imparts a more matte-like finish. While The Dewy Skin, as you might expect from its name, provides a dewy, radiant glow.No matter which moisturizer you select, we encourage you to take a few moments of mindfulness while applying your cream during your daily regime. Having a moment of mindful meditation paired with your skincare routine can elevate the routine into the extraordinary.

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you have sensitive skin—according to the statistics, anyway. In one 2022 report, 71% of the surveyed group identified as having sensitive skin; in another, which looked at a much larger sample of people over a period of over a decade, found that at least half of all people have sensitive skin, with women more likely than men to be affected. In other words, there’s a one in two chance your skin might be reactive. Reactive skin, to use another term for sensitive, isn’t a clinical diagnosis, but a way of describing skin that often responds negatively to external stimuli, be they materials, products, or environmental aggressors, in the form of redness and dryness, inflammation and even breakouts. While skin is a generally resilient organ—it has to be, given its chief function—those with sensitive skin often have to be careful about exposure to the wrong irritant or allergen. Even if your skin isn’t sensitive, there’s a 100% chance you know someone whose is. This short guide will help you to understand the sensitive skin type’s unique set of needs. Presenting: A gentle introduction to sensitive skincare. A brief guide to sensitive skincare If you have sensitive skin, it may seem like the best thing to give your skin is: Nothing. Because sensitive skin is characterized by reactions, many who identify with the type go to great lengths to minimize all interactions with potential irritants, from fabrics to fragrances. At the same time, certain skincare formulas and ingredients have shown benefits on even the finickiest faces—and often will improve skin’s health in the long run. Centuries ago, the geisha (and their trainees, the maiko) of Kyoto developed skincare rituals that preserved the faces they caked with white performance makeup. They understood the importance of being gentle to skin, and even used silk to wash their faces. There is an old saying: “If you look closely at a maiko’s skin, it is made of pure silk.” The comparison is apt. If you press a delicate, cool-to-the-touch swatch of silk to your cheek, the natural fiber feels exactly like skin. It makes sense why silk extract and protein are such popular ingredients in moisturizers, serums, and makeup. The comparison also makes sense when we think about how we should care for our skin. Think about how you launder your silks versus your cottons; Like skin, silk has to be properly cared for in order to be preserved. How to cleanse sensitive skin Imagine you’re washing a silk shirt. Might you choose a delicate cycle, or choose to gently wash it by hand? Or would you prefer to scrub it clean with some dish soap and a boar bristle brush? Skin is resilient, but that doesn’t mean it's immune to wear-and-tear from abrasive surfaces and chemicals. Those with sensitive skin know this better than anybody else. Dermatologists, like those at the American Academy of Dermatology, advise against “scrubbing” or roughly rubbing the skin at all. Using lukewarm water and gently massaging in your cleanser with your fingertips is the preferred method. Dermatologists also warn against overwashing your skin. The best frequency is one to two times per day, according to experts, adding one more if you work up a sweat. Sensitive skin types might also consider gentle product textures, like oil-based cleansers, when selecting their preferred formula. Tatcha’s Camellia Cleansing Oil is a great option; Oils are unique for how effectively they can cleanse skin while also imparting skincare benefits, like the vitamins and fatty acids found in tsubaki, or camellia oil. (According to the beauty record, geishas used tsubaki when cleansing their own skin.) There’s also Tatcha’s new Indigo Cleansing Balm, which distills calming indigo extract (more on that ingredient later) into a buttery, oil-based balm. Reactive skin thrives on stasis, so be wary of cleansers or exfoliators that promise quick, dramatic results. How to moisturize sensitive skin Moisturizing is more than simply ensuring skin stays hydrated. It’s an important step in shoring up your skin’s barrier function, and it becomes even more essential when it comes to sensitive skin. It’s a good idea to choose a moisturizer made with ingredients that are known to benefit sensitive skin, or are soothing in their own right. One of the best ingredients for sensitive skin might be an unlikely one: Indigo extract. You may be familiar with indigo dye, but the plant has shown holistic healing benefits for centuries—in skincare formulations, it’s supremely soothing. It provides the centerpiece for many of Tatcha’s sensitive skin formulas, like the Indigo Calming Cream. It’s a moisturizer, and more: It can also be used as a spot treatment for anywhere skin irritation appears. Some experts posit that skin becomes more reactive in response to a weakened lipid barrier, which means moisture escapes, and irritants can enter more easily, making skin prone to dryness, which can exacerbate inflammation. Many moisturizers beloved for sensitive skin use ceramides, or building block proteins that help reinforce your skin’s barrier. Tatcha’s Indigo Overnight Repair serum-in-cream is formulated with these critical ceramides, as well as Japanese indigo extract. (You may be familiar with indigo dye, but the plant has shown holistic healing benefits for centuries—in skincare formulations, it’s supremely soothing.) The Indigo Overnight Repair, like every product in Tatcha’s range, is formulated without synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, and many other potential irritants, making it a safe bet for sensitive skin. How to make skin less sensitive  Now that you know how to care for sensitive skin, it’s natural to wonder: Can I make my skin less sensitive? The answer is both yes, and no. According to dermatologists, our skin types can change, though they’re more likely to oscillate between oily and dry than sensitive and non. Sometimes, the use of corticosteroids, or other prescription topicals, can help skin become less inflamed. But if you have reactive skin, the odds are that it’ll stay reactive. The best thing to do is not test it by introducing too many routine elements. It’s possible to perform all of your necessary skincare—from cleansing, to exfoliating, to moisturizing—using gentle skincare products. But before you start to design your next routine, you may want to learn about ingredients that can actually help calm skin that is otherwise prone to aggravation. How to calm sensitive skin Certain ingredients are known for their skin soothing benefits. At Tatcha, we like Japanese indigo, both for its history—during the Edo period, samurai warriors believed garments dyed in indigo to have wound-healing properties—as well as for its well-documented skin soothing benefits. The dye is created through the process of turning leaves from the Indigofera plant into powder, boiling the powder down into a rich liquid, and then fermenting the dye until it reaches its distinctive hue. Indigo’s active ingredients help provide impressive relief to skin. Tryptanthrin is a nitrogen-rich compound known to help flush away toxins and irritants, while Indirubin supports the skin’s natural barrier function, which is why it’s useful in everything from hand cream to an exfoliating treatment. Indigo is the centerpiece of Tatcha’s Calming Starter Ritual, which imbues a simple skincare set with the calming power of indigo. Like any good practice, sensitive skincare requires consistency in order to see results. After all: The key to your skin type isn’t a single ingredient or product, but the good habits you build over time.

Do I really need a multi-step routine? While it’s true that skincare operates at the surface, its importance goes much deeper than that. It’s easy to be skeptical of skincare products, or to simply get lost in the sheer amount of information there is about skincare—from magazines, from social media, from celebrities, from friends. The market is vast enough to be incomprehensible. The advice seems to change up every day, to say nothing of the ingredients, which seem to change by the minute. Skincare—by which we mean attending to one’s own skin by the use of technology, like topicals and devices, or techniques, like massage or gua sha—is practiced by billions of people worldwide, but to fully understand the topic requires fluency in topics from chemistry to dermatology to radiobiology, and probably a lifetime of college-level seminars.Understanding why skincare is important, and why we do actually need to take care of our skin, is much simpler, and will only take a few minutes. All you need to do is metabolize the following five truths.Your skin needs care.Maybe you’re still skeptical of the idea of skincare—so skeptical, in fact, that you are thinking of not reading to the end of this article. You need only read to the end of this sentence: As long as the sun rises, your skin needs protection from it.One of the most important skincare behaviors to human survival is sun protection. This may seem hyperbolic. But skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute; it’s also one of the most preventable. Most skin cancers are caused by sun damage. Part of the NCI’s official recommendations involves applying sunscreen with a protection factor of 30 or greater before going outside, and reapplying every two hours of exposure. In this context, caring for one’s own skin is an act of preservation.Just as many people adopt skincare for their own vanity, many also consider their routines to be a part of their greater health, akin to exercise. Doctors who treat the skin, like dermatologists and plastic surgeons, agree that basic skincare is necessary, even as they express skepticism at skincare trends or buzzy ingredients. A simple, but comprehensive routine might just include a cleanser, a moisturizer, and a sunscreen. There’s room to add on if necessary. We’ve been doing it for a long time. At Tatcha, a lot of our beauty inspiration comes from Japan, where skincare has been practiced for centuries. Geisha performers had extensive beauty routines that they passed down in an oral tradition for generations. At the beginning of the 19th century, an author seeking to record the beauty trends of the time compiled a three-volume tome and called it the Miyakofuzoku Kewaiden, or Capital Beauty and Style Handbook. It showed not only makeup but skincare advice as well. If faces were painted, they were exfoliated, too.Many Japanese women also knew how to eat beautifully—that is, adopt certain foods with appearance benefits. (Today, as a demographic, Japanese women have a life expectancy of eighty-seven years, compared to eighty-one for American women. Scientists credit their longevity to genetics, but also to lifestyle and diet.) It would be difficult to argue that skincare is less important today than it was centuries ago. Life may be more complicated than it was back then, but as the next point will show, maybe that’s another reason why skincare can be useful. Routines are good for us. Weekly ice cream sundae. A workout before work. Pre-bedtime bath time, with a moisturizing sheet mask. Whether it’s something we do to take care of ourselves, or something we reward ourselves with for doing so, routines simply help us live better.Health providers agree that implementing routines (and sticking to them) can be hugely beneficial to people in all areas of their life, especially when it comes to sleep and diet. But fewer have concrete advice for how a routine can be forged. According to an article published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, forming a routine “can take a long time and is highly variable between individuals.” The article also distinguishes between a habit, which requires a cue—like showering after a workout—versus a routine, which doesn’t—like showering in the morning.Because good skincare is a daily practice, it can make for a great routine that easily punctuates the day. (Make it a routine, not a habit, with devoted blocks of time.) Both your morning and evening skincare regimens are opportunities for short meditations, or at least quick self check-ins. If for no other reason, try adopting this twice-daily practice, and see if you don’t feel more connected to yourself by the end of the day. You can learn a lot.Just start with the ingredient label. Did you know that hyaluronic acid, that slick substance found in many moisturizing serums and creams, is also found in the body’s connective tissue? (It helps lube our joints, among other important jobs.) Or that, in addition to boosting our immune systems, a topically-applied version of vitamin A also helps skin cells regenerate faster? And those benefits have also been observed in vitamin-rich plants, like cranberry and sea fennel?Whether you’re interested in human biology or cosmetic chemistry, the world of skincare provides almost endless opportunities for practical education. But one of the best things you can use skincare to learn about is other people. If you’ve ever gone makeup shopping with friends, or even been in a long line for the bathroom, you know about how beauty chatter can bring people together. Our skin is a science, but it’s also a self, and our skincare routines offer a peek into who we are. In this light, a little acne isn’t such a bad thing, if it gives you something to talk about. If you look good, you feel better. There is a distinct link between how we look on the outside and how we feel on the inside. The nascent cross-study of psychology and dermatology has yielded plenty of evidence that emotions can affect our skin (via stress-induced conditions, like eczema) and our skin can affect our emotions (psychological problems induced by skin disfigurement or hallucinations), according to the American Psychological Association. But even outside a clinical context, we know that putting attention into our appearance can improve confidence and self-esteem. These simple gestures have astounding benefits.Tatcha’s founder, Vicky Tsai, once wrote about the misconception of the 10- or 11-step Asian skincare routines that inspired the brand. “Quite the opposite, the classic rituals are as short and effortless as they are transformative for skin and soul alike. Giving yourself time to take care of your skin is not a luxury, but a necessity—a short, impactful moment for you to open and close the day.” When we talk about skincare, it’s the emphasis on “care”—the care we give our bodies, and our minds—that is truly meaningful.

Sensitive skin can be frustrating to experience, causing you to ask yourself, “Why is my skin so sensitive?” Here is everything you need to know about sensitivity, what causes it, and how to manage it. Do you ever wonder, “Why is my skin so sensitive?” You’re not alone. It’s estimated that up to 70 percent of people identify as having sensitive skin. While sensitive skin is very common, each person can have different symptoms and triggers, making it difficult at times to diagnose and treat sensitivity. Keep reading to learn about sensitive skin, what causes it, and how to manage it.Signs of Sensitive SkinThe term “sensitive skin” is just a general category, a spectrum encompassing a variety of skin irritations and conditions. Frustratingly, there is no clinician definition of skin sensitivity. It’s most likely characterized by unpleasant sensations or reactiveness, like redness, itching, discomfort, burning, and swelling, and can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are a few of the most common signs you might have sensitive skin.Itching, Burning, or RednessOne of the methods we recommend to determine your skin type is the bare-face method, a technique that involves cleansing the skin thoroughly, letting it sit untouched for 30 minutes, and then analyzing how skin feels and looks. This method can help you discover if you have dry or oily skin, but it also sheds a light on sensitivity. If it feels itchy, tight, burns, or appears red, you might have sensitive skin. (A board-certified dermatologist will help diagnose this.)These uncomfortable sensations can occur after the application of triggering skincare ingredients and products, too.Weakened Skin BarrierThose with sensitive skin may naturally have a weaker skin barrier, allowing irritants to penetrate and hydration to escape easier. A damaged skin barrier can manifest itself as inflammation, tenderness, and even acne.What Causes Sensitive Skin?Just as there are numerous ways sensitive skin showcases, there are just as many causes and triggers. Here are a few of the most common causes of sensitive skin.Environmental and Lifestyle Triggers In one study, environmental factors were shown to trigger sensitive skin reactions. These factors include heat, cold, excessive sun exposure, wind, pollution, and even air conditioning.Additionally, the same study was able to link everyday lifestyle-related factors to sensitive skin reactions. Other factors include exposure to chemicals and daily hygiene practices, like shaving, showering, and skincare products.Harsh Skincare ProductsAggressive products or the overuse of certain ingredients can lead to sensitivity. This can occur with harsh exfoliation products most commonly, including exfoliating acids. One study linked high-percentage AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), which include glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, and citric acids, with damage to the skin barrier and an increase in skin irritation. That said, low concentrations of AHAs can be beneficial for some skin types.GeneticsGenes tend to play a huge role in sensitive skin. According to research published in the medical journal Cosmetics, sensitive skin can be passed down from generation to generation. Additionally, those with sensitive skin can be genetically predisposed to have an inflammatory response and an overproduction of histamine, which can potentially lead to inflammatory conditions that go beyond skin, including asthma, eczema, and hay fever allergies.Dietary TriggersThe gut and skin are directly related, so much so that certain diets can provoke inflammation with sensitive skin. One study found a link between refined sugar, processed and fried foods, gluten, dairy, and spicy foods, which can trigger an immune response and over-sensitivity in the skin. Additionally, another study found diets rich in spices, coffee, and alcohol were shown to trigger sensitivity on the skin.How to Care for Sensitive SkinThere are a few tried-and-true ideas that can help soothe and ease sensitive skin.Minimize TriggersUncovering your personal triggers can be difficult and time-consuming, but the process might be worth it to uncover what allergies, foods, and environmental factors cause sensitivity. Consider consulting with a dermatologist and potentially an allergist.Use Sensitive Skin-Safe SkincareSkincare products can play a huge role in soothing and caring for sensitive skin. Aim for formulas that tout their safety for sensitivity and have calming ingredients, like indigo, colloidal oatmeal, and licorice root. Here are a few products from Tatcha that were designed for sensitive skin specifically.Overnight Healing Treatment Try: Indigo Overnight Repair Try this overnight healing balm, which visibly calms irritation and strengthens the skin’s barrier, so you can awake with calmer, healthier-looking skin. The formula features the soothing powers of Japanese indigo, red sage root to calm irritation, ceramides to boost moisture reserves, and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate. In clinical studies, 100 percent of users saw an improvement in their skin barrier strength within four weeks.A Gentle Cleanser Try: Indigo Cleansing Balm The new Indigo Cleansing Balm provides soothing support while removing impurities, makeup, and pollutants. Plus the fragrance-free balm maintains the skin’s barrier and microbiome for long-term skin health—perfect for sensitive skin. A Soothing Cream Try: The Indigo Calming Cream Transform stressed skin to strengthened skin with the new Indigo Calming Cream. The rich, fragrance-free cream has been proven to calm visible irritation and relieve itchy skin, thanks to Japanese indigo, colloidal oatmeal (an FDA-designated skin protectant), and our proprietary Hadasei-3.

Sensitive skin is very common, yet identifying it isn’t always easy. Here is everything you need to know about sensitivity, what causes it, and how to manage it. In a recent survey of 1000 individuals, 71 percent of adults polled identify as having sensitive skin—an astounding increase of 55 percent in just two decades. But what is sensitive skin, how do you know if you have skin that qualifies as sensitive, and, most importantly, how to soothe it? Follow along as we uncover everything you need to know about skin sensitivity.What is Sensitive Skin?While a 2019 clinical report found that 60 percent of women report having sensitive skin—there is no clinician definition of skin sensitivity. But it’s most likely characterized by unpleasant sensations or reactiveness, like redness, itching, discomfort, burning, and swelling. These reactions can occur naturally (or unprovoked) or be brought on by topical skincare products.What Causes Sensitive Skin?Many issues can cause skin sensitivity. Here are a few of the most common.Aggressive Skincare ProductsIntense acid treatments, retinols, and aggressive cleansers can all contribute to skin sensitivity. This is likely caused by stripping away the top protective layer of skin, known as your skin barrier.Weakened Skin BarrierA damaged skin barrier can lead to a host of problems, including excessive dryness, irritation, acne, and sensitivity, notes the Cleveland Clinic. This is because our skin barrier guards and protects skin from irritants and toxins, while also protecting the moisture levels. When the barrier is compromised, irritants can penetrate the skin and moisture disappears, leading to dehydration, redness, itching, and other sensitivity issues.Chronic Skin ConditionsAllergies, contact dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis can naturally compromise the skin barrier, leading to more sensitivity. Working with a dermatologist to understand your skin conditions and triggers is an important step to treat and prevent excess sensitivity.How to Treat Sensitive SkinAs mentioned above, understanding your skin triggers is an important first step in treating sensitive skin. Tracking products, foods, or allergies that cause a reaction in the skin is important. It’s also helpful to remove known irritants from your regime, like acids (and other intense exfoliants), aggressive cleansers, and retinol. Focus on products that are proven to soothe and calm skin. Simplify and ‘gentle-fy’ your skincare ritual first and foremost. Reach for products and brands that avoid allergens and irritants and tout soothing ingredients. Here are a few gentle ingredients to consider adding to your skincare routine.Colloidal OatmealColloidal oatmeal is treasured for its therapeutic results and powerful relief. In a recent survey of 1000 individuals, 71 percent of adults polled identify as having sensitive skin—an astounding increase of 55 percent in just two decades. But what is sensitive skin, how do you know if you have skin that qualifies as sensitive, and, most importantly, how to soothe it? Follow along as we uncover everything you need to know about skin sensitivity.What is Sensitive Skin?While a 2019 clinical report found that 60 percent of women report having sensitive skin—there is no clinician definition of skin sensitivity. But it’s most likely characterized by unpleasant sensations or reactiveness, like redness, itching, discomfort, burning, and swelling. These reactions can occur naturally (or unprovoked) or be brought on by topical skincare products.What Causes Sensitive Skin?Many issues can cause skin sensitivity. Here are a few of the most common.Aggressive Skincare ProductsIntense acid treatments, retinols, and aggressive cleansers can all contribute to skin sensitivity. This is likely caused by stripping away the top protective layer of skin, known as your skin barrier.Weakened Skin BarrierA damaged skin barrier can lead to a host of problems, including excessive dryness, irritation, acne, and sensitivity, notes the Cleveland Clinic. This is because our skin barrier guards and protects skin from irritants and toxins, while also protecting the moisture levels. When the barrier is compromised, irritants can penetrate the skin and moisture disappears, leading to dehydration, redness, itching, and other sensitivity issues.Chronic Skin ConditionsAllergies, contact dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis can naturally compromise the skin barrier, leading to more sensitivity. Working with a dermatologist to understand your skin conditions and triggers is an important step to treat and prevent excess sensitivity.How to Treat Sensitive SkinAs mentioned above, understanding your skin triggers is an important first step in treating sensitive skin. Tracking products, foods, or allergies that cause a reaction in the skin is important. It’s also helpful to remove known irritants from your regime, like acids (and other intense exfoliants), aggressive cleansers, and retinol. Focus on products that are proven to soothe and calm skin. Simplify and ‘gentle-fy’ your skincare ritual first and foremost. Reach for products and brands that avoid allergens and irritants and tout soothing ingredients. Here are a few gentle ingredients to consider adding to your skincare routine.Colloidal OatmealColloidal oatmeal is treasured for its therapeutic results and powerful relief. This ingredient can be found in The Indigo Calming Cream, which was awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, classifying it as safe for even the most sensitive skin. LicoriceLicorice root is not only brightening but it’s also known to calm sensitive skin. The botanical is naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, providing a gentle and soothing experience for most skin types. Licorice root extract can be found in one of Tatcha’s prized calming products: The Rice Polish: Gentle. An exfoliating product is rarely geared toward sensitive skin, but this Japanese-inspired polish was crafted specifically for gentle cleansing and exfoliation. AlgaeAlgae revitalizes and leaves skin feeling soft, dewy, and refreshed. The superfood also contains humectant properties, allowing it to thoroughly lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated for longer. Additionally, this marine botanical is shown to cocoon skin from pollution and blue light (commonly emitted from digital screens) by intercepting free radicals. In total, algae simultaneously hydrates, restores, and shields the skin. This antioxidant-rich plant is an integral part of Tatcha’s proprietary Hadasei-3 complex that is composed of a trinity of time-tested ingredients that work in harmony to deliver radiant, healthy-looking skin. Our prized Hadasei-3 complex can be found in a variety of Tatcha’s products, including The Essence and The Dewy Serum, which are wonderful for sensitive skin. IndigoThe botanical is regarded for its deeply soothing, restorative, and calming powers, as well as supporting the skin barrier. We are so inspired by Japanese indigo extract that we harnessed the powers (and name) of the therapeutic ingredient into our treasured Calming Collection.For cleansing, try our newest innovation: The Indigo Cleansing Balm. This skin-strengthening formula instantly calms visible irritation, while also supporting and transforming the barrier. The dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free formula was crafted with weakened, sensitized skin in mind, knowing traditional cleansing can be painful and damaging. This is why the balm is designed to reduce friction while cleansing, helping to soothe while cleansing. It still effectively cleanses though, efficiently removing even waterproof makeup. The formula includes Japanese indigo to calm visibly irritated skin, lipids, and ceramides to replenish the barrier, Japanese lotus root to soothe, and mondo grass root to balance the microbiome. The results are stunning, too: In clinical studies, 100 percent of participants demonstrated an improvement in barrier function after just one week of use.*But unlike harsh cleansers, the Indigo Cleansing Balm also soothes visible irritation and replenishes moisture—strengthening the skin barrier so it can prevent future damage for smooth, plump, and radiant-looking skin.*Based on bio-instrumentation (TEWL) clinical study on 40 panelists. To hydrate (and soothe), grab our newly updated Indigo Calming Cream. The fragrance-free cream has been proven to calm visible irritation and relieve itchy skin, thanks to Japanese indigo and colloidal oatmeal (an FDA-designated skin protectant). What sets this innovative cream apart from others is the addition of colloidal oatmeal, which has helped earn it the coveted National Eczema Association seal of approval for its ability to soothe irritated, eczema-prone skin on the face and beyond. Whether as a face cream or spot treatment, The Indigo Calming Cream offers a luxurious way to heal visibly stressed or eczema-prone skin for a calmer, stronger skin barrier.100 percent of panelists in a clinical study saw an improvement in softness and suppleness immediately, an improvement in the appearance of the skin barrier after one week, and an improvement in visible redness and evenness of skin tone after four weeks. The emotional benefits of using the new Indigo Calming Cream are worth noting, too. In a clinical study self-assessment questionnaire, 86 percent of panelists noted that the product left them feeling like their skin was healthier after just one week.Or for a nighttime deeply hydrating experience, try the Indigo Overnight Repair for healthier-looking and calmer skin when you awake.Calm the body with our Indigo Soothing Body Butter, which features indigo, squalene, and colloidal oatmeal to heal and hydrate. And for hands, grab the Indigo Soothing Hand Cream, which is a concentrated dose of indigo, silk extracts, and squalane for a restorative, softening treatment.

The removal of makeup is an essential skincare step. If you have skin that is prone to reaction, however, it can be an opportunity for disaster. Here is how to remove makeup from sensitive skin. Good skincare routines are built on cleansers, which clear the day’s makeup to make the way for our creams and serums to get to work. Without this first step, all of our other skincare is ineffective. A good cleanse is critical, and not too hard to find.For those who have sensitive skin, selecting a cleanser is a more complicated task. Sensitive skin is the more common term for reactive skin, characterized by “the occurrence of unpleasant sensations (stinging, burning, pain, pruritus, and tingling sensations) in response to stimuli that normally should not provoke such sensations,” according to a Swedish dermatological journal. In other words, it’s a skin type best left unperturbed.And yet, it’s a skin type that, like all others, requires regular care to maintain its healthy form and function—as a barrier between you and the outside world. Cleansing is crucial to that care. This is why, regardless of whether your skin type is oily or dry, combination or sensitive, your nightly skincare routine should begin with a proper rinse that removes makeup, dirt, or other accumulated build-up. By selecting the right cleanser, taking into consideration things like texture and ingredients, you should easily be able to create a custom, calming, cleansing ritual for your own skin.Do I need to wash my face?Dermatologists agree: Everybody needs to wash their face. Dirt and other build-up collects on our skin as a byproduct of daily life, and it's the job of a cleanser to clear it all away.Many experts recommend washing your face twice a day, while some dermatologists make a crucial distinction between face washing and face rinsing. The former includes a skincare product formulated to properly cleanse the dermis, while the latter can be done with water alone. Particularly reactive skin types might benefit from rinsing in the morning and saving their true cleanse for before bed but the ideal frequency for each person depends on their skin’s unique composition and goals.Your nightly cleanse is very important for your overall skin’s health. When you arrive to your evening skincare routine, your face is probably still holding on to the makeup and sunscreen applied earlier in the day. It can be difficult to achieve a complete cleanse with water alone, which is why skincare formulations can help to melt away makeup, dirt, and other substances you don’t want to leave on overnight.What’s the best way to remove makeup for sensitive skin?Every face needs to be washed, and every face needs to take off its makeup to do so, but it’s true that some washes can be harsher than others. Those with sensitive skin know this better than anybody else. The American Academy of Dermatology warns against abrasive scrubbing preferring lukewarm water and gentle fingertip massages. They also warn against overwashing, which can further sensitize skin, according to a recent report from Allure, by wearing down your skin’s natural barrier, leading to increased dryness and redness.This is why so many sensitive skin types like gentle product textures, including creams and oils, that exchange dirt and impurities with nourishing vitamins and necessary hydration. Oils, like The Camellia Cleansing Oil, do a beautiful job of this. The featherweight formula slicks off makeup with ease, without disturbing the skin’s moisture balance. This comes as little surprise: In antiquity, geishas used tsubaki, or camellia oil, when cleansing their own skin of layers of stage makeup.) In a trial conducted by Tatcha, 100% of women who used the Camellia Cleansing Oil also noticed improvements in wrinkles*. A good cleanser should do more than just cleanse; It should improve the quality of your skin overall. What about sensitive eyes?Sensitive skin is one thing, but sensitive skin around the eyes is another. As a dermatologist told InStyle, “the skin around the eye area is some of the most delicate and sensitive skin on the body,” even in those without reactive skin. It’s the thinnest part of the dermis on our faces, making the region particularly prone to reactions from products, the sun, or the environment around us.Of course, the eyes are also some of our favorite makeup canvases, and are often the target of eyeshadows, mascaras, and other paints and pigments. So when it comes time to take it off, it’s wise to choose a cleanser that will minimize the amount of work you have to put in. This is where a balm comes in handy; These oil-based formulas are known to melt away even the most stubborn makeup remnants, and are frequently employed as gentle makeup removers. Tatcha’s Indigo Cleansing Balm, for one, transforms textures on the skin, from a cushiony balm to a silky oil that cleanses skin and removes makeup at the same time. (It’s also made with indigo, a botanical extract prized for its soothing properties — and its gentleness on sensitive skin.) It might be wise to follow up with a skincare-product approved for optical use, such as an eye cream, that can deliver extra nourishment where your skin needs it most. Bonus points if it has ingredients that help retain hydration, like the white peony and silk extracts found in the Melting Eye Cream that smooth skin and diminish the appearance of fine lines. All in all, having sensitive skin means being choosy about what you put on. Read ingredient labels, talk to your dermatologist, and keep reading about sensitive skin.And whatever you do, don’t forget to take off your makeup.*based on a clinical study of 20 women over 4 weeks.