Buzz
Ever wondered what a beauty editor really thinks? Or sought product suggestions from someone who’s tried it all? You’re in the right spot. In our weekly feature, beauty editor Hana Hong answers your top skincare, hair care, and makeup queries, submitted by Mytour readers.
Reader question: I experience inflammation while cleansing, but I’m confident it’s not due to the products I’m using. Are there specific ingredients or products that can help reduce this inflammation? — Erin Smith
Inflammation can present itself in various ways, but skinflammation (skin irritation) is particularly difficult to identify. It could show up as redness, dark spots, itching, breakouts, or swelling. Even if you haven't introduced any new products, a number of environmental factors can trigger skinflammation, making it even trickier to pinpoint the cause.
Hard Water
If your inflammation is persistent, only occurs during cleansing, and you’ve already ruled out product-related causes, it’s likely that you might have sensitivity to hard water. This term refers to tap water with high levels of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Certain regions of the United States experience higher mineral concentrations in their water, while others have less.
Over time, these mineral deposits can compromise the skin barrier, causing pores to clog, which may result in acne and worsen conditions like eczema and dermatitis. If you’ve noticed that your skin improves significantly when traveling, or your face wash and body wash don’t lather well at home, it's likely that your water is the culprit.
Water Filtration
What can you do? Start by installing a high-quality mineral filter on your showerhead and faucet. This can help remove the minerals causing your irritation. Additionally, try using micellar water to cleanse your skin when possible, as it cleans without the need to rinse. When using the sink, always opt for cool water—avoid hot water.
And of course, there are general steps you can take to soothe irritation. Stick to a simple skincare routine that focuses on moisturizing and calming, rather than exfoliating, to combat inflammation. Whatever you do, avoid layering on too many products (especially those with fragrance), as this will likely aggravate the situation.
Beneficial Ingredients
So, which ingredients should you use to alleviate irritation? The best anti-inflammatory ingredients work by reducing the body’s negative responses and blocking enzymes that trigger inflammation. I know you don’t want to risk experimenting with already sensitive skin, so I’ve put together a list of calming ingredients that are perfect for sensitive skin types.
1. Niacinamide
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps reduce redness and is commonly found in moisturizers for dry skin. Many of our favorite night creams also include niacinamide. It's also an excellent brightening agent, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation by preventing the transfer of pigment from melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells) to the surface skin cells, which causes discoloration, says Kenneth Howe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
Try: Glossier Super Pure
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has long been known as a soothing remedy for skin. It not only moisturizes and protects, but is also packed with essential amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, E, and B-12, which help form a protective barrier and lock in moisture without causing oily skin.
"Aloe vera has been found to reduce thromboxane, a chemical that slows down wound healing," says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. As an added bonus, it also contains magnesium lactate, which helps reduce itching and irritation.
Try: Nature Republic New Soothing Moisture Aloe Vera Gel
3. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural extract known for its cleansing, soothing, and healing properties. It’s packed with compounds like gallic acid and tannins, which provide conditioning benefits that help to calm the skin and maintain its moisture balance.
"Witch hazel toner is suitable for all skin types after cleansing to remove excess oil, reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and refine the complexion," says Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist from West Islip, New York. She suggests Dickinson's toner with rosewater (bonus: rosewater also boasts anti-inflammatory benefits).
Try: Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner with Rosewater
4. Sea Buckthorn Oil
Sea buckthorn oil is a hidden gem in skincare. Studies show that it contains palmitoleic acid (omega-7), a rare compound that promotes cell regeneration in the epidermis. This is why it is often used in hospitals to treat burns, chafed skin, and bedsores, and it’s also available in many skincare products.
"Daily use of this powerful fruit helps nourish the tissues of your skin and body, providing hydration to your complexion and helping to prevent wrinkles," says Elina Fedotova, cosmetic chemist, celebrity esthetician, and owner of Elina Organics Skincare & Spas. "It’s also a promising solution for rosacea and other related skin conditions."
Try: The Ordinary 100% Organic Virgin Sea-Buckthorn Fruit Oil
5. Calendula
Calendula is a natural oil derived from marigold flowers native to the Mediterranean region. This sweet extract is rich in flavonoids with antiseptic qualities and boasts anti-inflammatory properties that help heal wounds and soothe eczema. Calendula’s calming effects are also linked to its ability to reduce trans-epidermal water loss, strengthening the skin’s defenses against potential irritants.
Try: Kiehl's Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash
6. Chamomile
You might enjoy chamomile tea to help you unwind before sleep, but it can offer similar calming effects when applied to the skin. This anti-inflammatory herb is rich in an antioxidant called apigenin, which provides a range of health benefits. Some studies suggest that chamomile helps block prostaglandins, compounds in the body that trigger inflammation.
Try: Naturopathica Chamomile Cleansing Milk
7. Tiger Grass
Tigers in India have been observed using this herb to heal their wounds and infections by rolling in it (hence the name). Native to Asia's wetlands, tiger grass, also known as cica or gotu kola, features centella asiatica as its active ingredient.
"This plant is well-known for its antioxidant qualities, and it's packed with amino acids, beta-carotene, and fatty acids. Together, these elements help restore the skin's moisture barrier, shield it from environmental pollutants, and boost collagen production," says Ife Rodney, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Eternal Dermatology.
What's even more impressive? The true power of this plant isn't in its leaf but in its water, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It's even been used to treat serious conditions like leprosy, lupus, and ulcers.
Try: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30
8. CBD
Whether you love or dislike the trend, CBD has shown remarkable benefits for some people dealing with inflammation. The CBD craze can be overwhelming (and, honestly, potentially risky since it's unregulated by the FDA), but there's significant evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effects of high-quality CBD.
When applied to the skin, CBD interacts with receptors to reduce the inflammatory response. This can result in reduced redness and itching, and may even help treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis, according to a study published in Clinical Therapeutics. However, it's essential to choose CBD products from trusted, dermatologist-approved brands and ensure they are free from toxins and pesticides.
Try: Lord Jones Acid Mantle Repair Moisturizer With 250mg CBD and Ceramides
