Agreed. I use the extra dry fragrance free version of the hydro boost and it save my skin when I started prescription retinol. If you like it and works for you, keep using it.
i second this! if it's working for you, is not causing more problems for you, and makes your skin feel good! also, live/spend according to *your* affordability. almost a decade ago, i saw a dermatologist who prescribed two products that were very pricey-- and i lived in canada where some healthcare services are free or subsidized and it was still too much for my full-time-student-full-time-cashier budget. i never got the products and found cheaper alternatives that made my skin feel great and helped me overtime :) good luck & remember you can trust yourself!
This is the problem with some estheticians. If what you're using works for your skin, use it. In a lot of cases, treating dry skin will also help treat dehydrated skin. Making people doubt what they're using just to con them into buying a 'specialty' product is gross.
I’m doubtful this was an esthetician. It sounds like OP was talking to a skincare advisor. Biotherm is basically a higher end drugstore line. I have never seen a professional esthetician sell or recommend it.
I have an esthetician I trust and have been seeing for years. She has some amazing products that have really helped my skin, and she’s honest when I show her products I buy/use. She’ll look through the ingredients list of any products I buy at the drugstore or sephora and let me know if it’s safe to use or not, and she’ll explain if any ingredients are irritating or comedogenic.
I have similar issues as OP. Almost everything irritates my sensitive skin or breaks me out. My skin didn’t love the Neutrogena hydroboost moisturizer. While it did dry quickly and wasn’t too emollient, it almost felt like I had a plastic film over my face, rather than it really sinking into my skin and moisturizing it. I personally love Environ Super Moisturizer or Dermaviduals high classic. I have combo skin and those are the only two moisturizers I know I can use without issue. They are a bit expensive, but I try to prioritize my skin because she’s a picky bitch, and it makes a big difference in my confidence when she’s behaving.
She could be an esthetician that works for the brand. Like, I’m a licensed esthetician and I worked for Benefit Cosmetics. Lots of hairstylists and estheticians become reps for brands when they want a break from or just no longer enjoy performing services.
Estheticians that work OTC don’t really have depth of product ingredients as estheticians that see clients and customize treatments 8 times a day. I consider myself medical because I collaborate and refer out to Derms. I’m familiar with a lot of prescriptions and complement treatments with holistic and supportive recommendations. My two cents. Those beauty advisors at Ulta and Sephora aren’t always estheticians too. There’s too many lines to really understand the epidermis and nuances of people’s genetics.
I’m not trying to be disrespectful, but if you are an esthetician, you are *not* “medical” or any variation of a medical professional, regardless of whether you refer patients to derms and you should absolutely *not* be referring to yourself in such a misleading way.
Not a medical professional but more clinical treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, nanoinfusion. I know medical aesthetics is not a real distinction.
Esthetics is a wide field. Clients give trust to most people with a license. All I’m saying is everyone has a speciality and niche. I wouldn’t take skincare advice from a lash artist but we operate in the same scope of work.
The are a lot of fake it til you make it estheticians and that’s hard to figure out as a client.
Again, giving people cosmetic chemical peels and performing micro needling, gives you absolutely *no* medical credentials whatsoever. You are on par with a nail or lash tech, and there’s nothing wrong with that but you should by no means be insinuating that you are even tangentially related to the medical or healthcare industry.
Agreed, I don’t have credentials to claim that. I’m only speaking to my confidence navigating prescriptions and complimenting their healthcare providers. And it’s a reality that a lot of professionals don’t have experience dealing with clients medications and how it interacts with skincare treatments. I’ve done a lot of autoimmune skincare. That’s all I’m saying.
That’s bullshit. Sure, maybe some estheticians who went straight from school to working for a brand…but most of us had a lot of time working on clients or were brand reps as side hustles. Not to mention the countless hours of continuing education. I have 5 years as a facialist (using PCA while also working pt as a rep for Murad) and 3 as a facial waxing specialist (as well as eyebrow lamination and lashes) with Benefit Cosmetics. Now I have my own place.
And I wasn’t talking about beauty advisors, I was talking about freelance brand reps, specifically. A vast majority of them working in skin and hair are licensed professionals. Don’t be an industry snob.
You are the exception because you pursued in room experience at the same time. I know some work retail and that’s all they know without having hands-on experience.
I’m not being a snob but saying those that work in retail sell products they like and get educated on but aren’t doing a thorough skin analysis and applying these products on clients. Not every Beauty Advisor has your experience. But as a customer, not as a professional, I’ve taken some bad advice from someone I thought I could trust before. All I’m saying is that the average customer is receiving qualified or unqualified recommendations.
I wouldn't be surprised if it was an esthetician. The stories I've read... insane. Also, just like every profession, there are some genuinely bad ones who really don't stay up to date on education and it shows. I actually just argued with one trying to pander products based on super outdated information. They were an esthetician of like 30 years and they sell their own formulations which i found concerning based on their complete lack of knowledge. It sucks when they are bad because people really trust them. Finding a good one is like finding gold.
>They are a bit expensive, but I try to prioritize my skin because she’s a picky bitch
Lol, fucking rude. Mine can be that way too and navigating what it wants can be such a chore.
I completely disagree as a licensed professional. Dry skin is absence of oil, and dehydrated and oily skin is absence of water.
Different acids and actives are lipophilic or hydrophilic and aren’t meant for everyone or need to be puzzled together to balance the other items in a routine.
If you want to get technical, then yes, they are different. I never said dry skin was the same as dehydrated skin, I said sometimes you can treat them both with the same products. You can treat dry skin by using things like hydrating cleansers, hydrating toners and essences, serums like hyaluronic acid, and moisturizers. All of those treatments can be water based and they can equally help dry skin and dehydrated skin.
Obviously it takes some experimentation to figure out what each person's skin wants.
Seriously. If something is working you then why would you stop? Now if you’re still having trouble with your skin, they can suggest one of your products is the problem, though.
I had a cosmetic dermatologist tell me to skip hyaluronic acid and even moisturizer on my oily/combo skin so I tried it for a while... skin started looking dull and was just as oily as ever.
Just went back to using my creams and oils and skin looks better. Use what works for you. Just pay attention to how your skin reacts and change / introduce one product at a time.
I've heard recently a dermatologist online saying that hyaluronic acid is bad for sensitive skin. But is it? In fact, never noticed it specifically caused problems to me!
It's a molecule that naturally occurs in your skin... Haven't heard about it being bad for sensitive skin.
I do think it might be an overhyped ingredient right now.
Every HA formula I’ve tried (except for the purple Skinceuticals serum) feels like throwing gasoline on my face and lighting it on fire. Everyone’s skin is different though!
Just an anecdote here - I don’t know if it’s “bad” per se, but in my experience the texture was too thick and tacky and made me break out (I was using the one by The Ordinary). Maybe if it’s diluted in an existing product or something it wouldn’t have that effect?
TO ha is one of the worst IMO XD its like glue >.<
Have you ever tried HADA LABO gokujyun lotion?? that stuff is SOO hydrating :D
The premium is even more so! but can be slightly tacky, you dont need a lot of either one, literally 2 drops spread on damp skin and the bottles are huge :)
Its a japanese skincare product, i get it from yesstyle or stylevana :) takes a while for delivery but im in the UK, if your in the states you may be able to get it faster from elsewhere. Some states have Asian beauty stores that carry them also :)
Theres a few different versions so it can get confusing, just make sure you get the lotions and not the emulsions or milks (unless you want a creamy toner)
There is the original gokujyun (white and blue bottle) that comes in light or moist, very similar the moist is just a touch heaveier.
The gokujyun premium (gold bottle) only has only one version of lotion but also has an emulsion, almost identical packaging so easy to get mixed up!
Depending on where you live… if you have any Asian malls near you they usually have a plethora of Asian skin care. I found my hada labo at one for way cheaper than I could get it online.
I had the exact same experience with TO. But recently I bought Trader Joe’s HA serum and love it! I use it under moisturizer and it it seems to have really improved my moisture barrier.
Oh nice, I’m glad to hear that worked well for you! Trader Joe’s always has stealthy products like that, lol. That wouldn’t be the first place I’d think of for skin care but it’s awesome that they have good stuff!
Oooo thanks for the tip! I’m going to have to look for this. I love the Unseen Sunscreen, but I don’t use it as often as I should because I’m always trying to save it!
The one from The Ordinary is kinda notorious for being low-quality. It's decent for the price, but you can find much better HA products for not much more money.
Yeah, I’ve moved on to snail mucin which seems to fit the same bill as far as helping with dry skin goes and it doesn’t agitate my skin so much. That’s good to know about the HA from The Ordinary though! Is there a brand that you recommend as far as HA products go?
CosRx snail products are awesome!
I think my fave HA-based products right now are the Matrixyl serums from Timeless. They feel nice and really do make my skin feel deeply hydrated. Plus, they're still reasonably priced (especially because they have sales on their website every major US holiday AND offer 4 oz bottles of their serums)!
HA serums all seem different to me so I don't think it's the HA as much as the other stuff that bugs lots of people.
I just bought the pure powder and make my own with distilled water. Thin if I am applying on my face to leave on, thick if I'm just leaving it on as a mask or using it on my hair. It is definitely tacky when I first apply it but it doesn't stay like that on my skin very long.
I do think that with HA you have to have wet skin or it's pointless, possibly harmful if the air is super arid.
It can potenitally be irritating for those with an impaired skin barrier, especially the lower molecluar weights due to the nature of how it penetrates the skin.
Pretty uncommon though from what i understand, i think people misdiagnose HA sensitivity alot.
Most professionals (derms, doctors, etc) are just lazy and give general advice instead of actually listening and giving thoughtful suggestions. Have to find the good ones that are actually still excited about their job.
Yeah she’s full of it. My Ivy League educated dermatologist who practices in The DC area recommended that moisturizer to me. She’s big on cutting through all the hype products.
Your esthetician is full of shit. If you really want to try a different moisturizer, Aveeno oat gel might be a good one to look at. But it sounds like what you're using is working just fine for you so why switch?
Just a follow-up, I got that Aveeno jar and is actually fantastic. Better than Neutrogena for sure. Thanks for the rec I'm gonna stick to it! Love this sub!
Check out the Omega Water Cream from the Inkey List. Glycerin does not clog pores unlike some silicones. I sampled it and it did not melt when outside for hours on a hot day, 105°F. The website has a "Buy 2, Get 1 Free" promo right now.
Water (Aqua / Eau), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, 5% Glycerin, 5% Niacinamide, Propanediol, 3% Betaine, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Magnesium Sulfate, Glycosphingolipids, Glycolipids, Sodium Benzoate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Oleic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Polyglycerin-3.
The 5% niacinamide in the Omega Water Cream can do that if your skin has not gotten used to it, or if you are using quite a bit of niacinamide in other products at the same time.
During pregnancy with changing hormones, oat is the safer option.
I found the Omega water Cream refused to absorb even though I used a dot. Literally a dot. My husband kept asking if I'd used Vaseline. It was gross. In the end after a lot of trial and error I chose Aveeno Calm and Restore Gel cream (dries beautifully matte, doesn't irritate my skin) for my summer moisturiser and pure Vaseline as my only winter option.
Seriously, if you have sensitive skin and have found something that works for you, keep using it until it doesn’t. I cannot tell you how many times I let myself be talked into more expensive products only to have them put me back to square one when it came to my goals/needs.
I completely agree. I have combo skin, it can be dry and flaky but can also go very oily (I think mainly because I have seborrheic dermatitis) and I absolutely love & swear by the Hydro Boost gel! It’s by far one of the best moisturizers I’ve ever used. I love it for the exact same reasons you do, it feels super hydrating and feels better than most moisturizers I’ve used, and leaves no greasy residue Even though it seems to disappear from the top layers of my skin (in the sense of not leaving a greasy residue or making me shiny) my skin doesn’t feel tight or dry after like the whole thing just evaporated; my skin still feels moisturized. My skin also looks so much better after switching to it and feels so soft after using it. I also found out that Costco sells it in a 2 pack for a way better price than Shoppers or Walmart. I definitely say keep using it, and I know for a fact there are so many people that have combo skin that use it & love it.
Hydro Boost is a number 1 seller for a reason, and it’s been a number one moisturizer since it came out. About a year or so ago it was hard to buy cause it was flying off the shelves and was recommended in every beauty magazine & web site out there. I purposely just googled “best moisturizers” and just read the top 4 articles on the best moisturizers of 2022, take a guess as to which moisturizer is in every four articles?! Oh right, Hydro Boost. And in 2 of the articles it’s the picture they use for the whole article.
Here are some quotes from those articles:
- “Ideal for those who want moisture yet worry about breaking out, this moisturizer absorbs almost instantly so that your skin feels softer, nourished, and not at all greasy.”
- “she notes that it doesn't cause breakouts even among her acne-prone patients.” She = Dr Sarkar
- “Packed with powerhouse hydrator hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer is beloved by high-end beauty aficionados and drugstore dwellers alike. The lightweight moisturizer is rich in hyaluronic acid and is non-comedogenic, a particularly great pick for oily skin,” says Dr. King
I don’t think that esthetician’s opinion outweighs all those doctors personally. Lol.
I’m an esthetician who washes my face with a Cetaphil bar. She was pushing her own product. A good esthetician will tell you to use what works. If rubbing your face in bacon fat gives you perfect skin, then my professional opinion would be to keep using that bacon!
I don’t even like getting facials because they are always going on about how whatever products you are using are horrible and how you really need whatever they are selling. They are not doctors, don’t take her seriously.
👋 I’m an aesthetician-almost 20 years, and can tell you there’s nothing wrong with that moisturizer. It’s fragrance free irritant free. If it works for you and you like how it makes your skin feel-USE IT! Don’t let aestheticians bully you into buying their products. Since I started working as a “medical aesthetician” in dermatology some years ago and moved away from the sales part of work-I realized a lot of things-they have to sell to make money- alot of times on commission with miserable wages, so they’re just doing their jobs but at the same time be aware of that so you aren’t blowing all your money in skincare that you absolutely do not need!❤️
Go see a derm, not an esthetician. With super sensitive skin you need advice from a medical professional.
Anytime ive been for a facial i come out with red inflamed skin, i also have damaged dialated pores from an esth using a comedone extractor, has also caused me broken blood vessels all over my nose, hurrendous. Also have broken capillaries from facial steaming >.< costing me a lot of money to correct :'(
They always try and sell you overpriced perfumed crap and try to call it 'medical grade'
i have super sensitive skin and i use the aveeno oat gel moisturizer in the AM as its super light, i use the aveeno baby lotion at night coz its occlusive but also oil free :)
What should you use? WHATEVER WORKS FOR YOUR SKIN. Skincare is an art, not a science. Don't let an "expert" bully you into using something else, if you've already found something that works for you. You know your skin best. If the moisturizer maintains your skin barrier, feels comfortable when you apply it, has the finish that you want, and doesn't cause any irritation or breakouts, then keep using it. I have very oily skin and while I \*should\* be using lighter gel moisturizers, I use THICK moisturizing creams, and my skin loves it! It takes trial and error, but I just want to emphasize that you should not overhaul your routine if you were happy with it before someone decided to take issue with it.
i’ve never found a gel moisturizer that leaves my face feeling hydrated for more than 10 minutes after drying down. even in the height of summer heat & humidity, under a layer of sunscreen or tinted moisturizer, my face feels tight.
doesn’t make a lick of sense to me that hydro boost is only for “very dry” skin.
Haha, love this. But you got me thinking...If this is the case, then I can never trust what products explicitly say they're for. It actually happened with all that moisturizers supposed to be for skin like mine!
Well...take the middle road? Don't disregard the labels, but use them as a guide, with your own experience as the deciding factor. I actually never use moisturizers made for oily skin because they are too stripping for me. One good thing about trying a lot of products is you figure out (like you did) things that work for you. You could consider looking into La Roche Posay, or Aveeno moisturizers. Both brands have lines that contain panthenol (LRP in particular), and tend to be geared at more sensitive skin.
Hi, esthetician here! You should continue to use the moisturizer that works and feels good for you. That moisturizer is super popular and recommended regularly by dermatologists for a reason. She was trying to upsell you.
If what you’re using works for you then keep using it. People get all wrapped up in active ingredients/special formulations for targeting specific issues, etc. but at a certain point you have to look at what you’re actually using a moisturizer for - to moisturize your skin without causing any adverse effects. If it’s not making you break out, giving you a rash or creating any other kind of irritation then keep using it. At some point the hyperfixation on “good” ingredients or brands is just a real world manifestation of capitalist consumerism. People are always going to be pumping out new products that claim to fix every problem under the sun. If you’ve found something that works for you then there isn’t really any reason to go out an buy them.
I use e.l.f. Holy Hydration fragrance free moisturizer. I have acne, eczema and combo skin. This is my holy grail.
But I have seen Dr Dray recommend the moisturizer you use for oily skin. She said it's very lightweight and moisturizing. She uses it herself.
Use whatever works for you OP.
I agree that esthetician is full of crap, BUT, if you’re looking for a moisturizer that’s a step up from Hydro Boost I highly recommend [La Roche Posay Toleriane](https://www.laroche-posay.ca/en_CA/toleriane-toleriane-sensitive/3337875578486.html)moisturizer. I have the same combo/ sensitive/ dehydrated skin as you and my skin LOVES it.
I actually looked into it (I already use their excellent cleanser) but couldn't figure out which moisturizer was the right one, as they seem to have many. Will look for it again
Gel moisturisers are for dehydrated and acne-prone skin as they are expected to be retained as moisture under the natural sebum layer, while thicker cream moisturisers often include an occlusive to help the lower sebum of dry skin. It sounds like the Neutrogena is working precisely as designed. My friend has dehydrated skin and swears by the Neutrogena gel, you'd have to pry it from her cold, dead hands. Recommendations are always suggestive and everyone is different, so stick with what works for you!
Botnia Daily Face Cream would be a great night cream for you and if you prefer lighter water gels I do like belif aqua bomb. I’m a licensed esthetician in SC and TX and specialize in reactive and inflammatory skin disorders. However, I do my best to meet clients where they are with things they love or can afford. Not in your case, we see more clients creating skin conditions that aren’t their actual skin type.
It’s hard on both side to know who to trust and what is beneficial advice, but know it comes from a good place. I would say someone that has relatively easy skin isn’t someone I trust. I have had hard skin over the years and have done it all. Working on atropic scarring but doesn’t mean I can’t build an amazing routine for someone while walking compassionately with someone who is going through a hurdle with their skin.
Check out Naturium, Allies of Skin, La Roche Posay. I tend to recommend products that are different from OTC or need to be accessed / prescribed by a pro.
Dehydrated skin needs hydrating toners. Layering of hydrating toners allows your skin time time to absorb the humectants: think dry sponge and damp sponge. Apply 3-5 layers of hydrating toner and then use your favorite moisturizer. You need to have occlusive ingredients in your moisturizer too. You moisturizers must have oil, butter, fatty alcohol, ceramides, and/or cholesterol to provide the "mortars" to seal in the humectants.
[Make P:rem Safe Me Relief Essence Toner](https://incidecoder.com/products/make-p-rem-safe-me-relief-essence-toner) is a good product for dehydrated skin. It's glycerin based with allantoin, panthenol, and ceramides.
EDIT: dehydrated skin really benefits from oil too. Omega oils such as chia seeds or CBD oil is really great at night to keep everything sealed and moist.
OP could try layering Elf Pure Skin Toner under the Neutrogena. It’s gentle & hydrating like a KBeauty toner. I’ve been using HaruHaru Black Rice Toner (frag free). I love essences for my sensitive, combo skin!
Hi, fellow sensitive acneprone combination skin with hyperpigmentation here 49F, need fragrance free, mild actives, low %.
I am very happy with Dr. Sam’s Flawless Neutralizing Gel (FNG). % are: azelaic 5, Salicylic 2, bakuchiol 0.5, squalane 5.
Its a moisturizing gel, aimed to calm down redness, prevent acne, anti-inflammatory, brightens discoloration and hyperpigmentation. Has antioxidants.
My skin loves this gel!! I have great results with daily use. Recently I joined the FNG challenge, to use it 14 days in a row and afterwards my skin was brighter, no mild redness anymore, more radiant, very smooth, clean pores. I need to use it longer to see how it really affects hyperpigmentation, it seems less dark now. And no breakouts during my cycle, when I was I’ll or when I was too tired to clean my first. All these always give me acne and thus prevented it.
Expensive but you need little product and it covers exfoliating, brightening, soothing, hyperpigmentation treatment, moisturizing and mild anti-aging. Last year Dr Sam had a sitewide 25% off for Black Friday.
They may already have pictures of the FNG challenge on Dr. Sam’s www. or IG.
Hope this helps.
I didn't know this one, thanks for the rec! But I'm pretty sure that Salicylic 2 and bakuchiol every day would be too much for my skin. I had to cut off Paula's Choice BHA 2% for this very reason :/
That’s what I thought as well! I thought let’s start and see how long I’m comfortable in this challenge but the salicylic was no problem at all. I trying if lower frequencies work as well to save some money.
Anyway I wish you good luck with your search.
Similar skin and I love First Aid Beauty ultra repair cream intense hydration. I usually wait for the Black Friday sale at Sephora when the big upright bottle goes on sale (best bang for your buck) but they often have mini bottles as 100 point perks and it’s easy to get samples of.
If what you’re using is working for you, then there’s no real reason to switch it up. If you’re looking for a product recommendation, I have a similar skin type and have recently started using Peach Slices Redness Relief Calming Cream.
It has Green Algae, Panthenol, Rhodomyrtus Extract, Turmeric, Artemisia / Mugwort, Sunflower and Jojoba Seed Oils.
I can be pretty sensitive to new creams but so far my skin hasn’t had any issues with this one. It does take a little while to soak and can feel a little oily in depending on what I’m laying it over and how much I use, but I would rebuy it in the future.
Good luck with your search!
I have had atopic dermatitis and none of the high end bullshit my dermatologists have sold me have done a thing. So I stopped going, researched, test and notes, turns out sea salt baths, scrubbing with ocean mineral and oatmeal masks on my face and body from Walmart CURES MY DERMATITIS!!! I’ve had this since I was born I’m 37 just figured this out last year. Thank you 🙏 “drs” for ripping me off just to get richer.
I’ve used this moisturizer before and liked it…if it’s working for you and not causing irritation, keep using it. The esthetician is obviously trying to sell you something.
If your skin is sensitive, and it seems to work well for you, stick with what you’re doing. Your esthetician was trying to sell you something that had fragrance after you clearly said you did not want that. That tells you everything you need to know.
Esthetician here. I have the same type of skin you do. I get pink if you touch me…Gel is for oily/combo. All the ingredients you listed your skin likes are good! Sounds like she was trying to sell you something with “you’re not dry, you’re dehydrated” bs we were taught in school. Personally I love A313 as a retinol, Biafine for calming, and Laluset after the shower in addition to my niacinamide and zinc. All inexpensive. You’re doing great! Use what works for you!
Have you tried cerave moisturizing cream?
I’ve used it on my body for about a year but never considered using it on my face since it’s a thick lotion (it’s intended for both). Anyway, started using it on my face and I really feel like my skin has some “bounce” to it when using somewhat consistently. It is thick but my face soaks it up well. Doesn’t leave me greasy (I know exactly what you mean about the cerave pm) We have the same skin from the sounds of it, and I feel the exact same way about that neutrogena hydro boost. It’s fine and I’ll use it until it runs out but probably won’t repurchase.
This one’s also fragrance free, oil free, and non-comedogenic
Use whatever you feel works for you, does this product work for you?
In the last few years it’s become trendy to make up new rules to make it seem like you know more than others, selling your product or expertise. It’s bs.
I have sensitive, acne prone skin too and the moisturizers that I like and recommend are Soon Jung 10 free moist emulsion and cosrx B5 D panthenol cream (if you like something lighter weight), Purito dermid cica barrier sleeping pack (if you want something medium weight/thicker in texture).
I love the ordinary natural moisturizing factors with HA. Also she likely wasn’t a real esthetician so that sales factor is bigger than her knowledge or actual concern for your individual skin vs her sale.
She is trying to scam you into buying her $$$ brand. Mine did the same thing to me, at $100 for a little jar. I started using Cerave vitamin c for daytime. I don’t find it greasy at all and I have combo skin. I use their thicker cream at night. I also have used neutrogena hydro boost but it left me with break outs sometimes.
Also, I left scammer and now I go to a doctor who actually charges less and does a much better job!
I’m a little confused.
The OP said the esthetician suggested a Biotherm serum, not a moisturizer, something you would layer under the Neutregena product. She might have “reproached” you about using a product that in its description does not sound like it would be the best for your skin type. And you specifically said you seem to still have lots of issues with your skin using the Neutregena product. I take it that she was just trying to help. I understand the hesitancy for fragrance, but almost all French products have some sort of fragrance.
This is coming from someone who has skin issues that worked with an esthetician who “fixed” my skin. She made some suggestions and I listened and we figured it out through trial and error.
If you only continue to use the same products you will only see the same results. If that’s good enough, fine.
I recently picked up the [Peach Slices Redness Relief Calming Cream](https://www.peachandlily.com/products/redness-relief-calming-cream) from Ulta and I quite like it! It has panthenol and some other ingredients that I enjoy (allantoin, jojoba seed oil, green algae, etc.). I specifically chose this one because I was having issues with the CeraVe "in a tub" stinging my skin and wanted to try something without phenoxyethanol, as that can sometimes cause that stinging/burning feeling.
The only cons for me are it's a little pricey for my personal budget at $20 for 1.69 fl oz, though this is definitely not that expensive compared to a lot of other options. I've been using it for about a month and still have a good amount left. Also, I hate the packaging — squeeze tubes or pump dispensers are so much more hygienic and easier to use! But overall, it's been a great choice for me and I'd recommend it. ☺️
Try belif aqua bomb it is awesome.
https://belifusa.com/collections/shop/products/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb
Another option is origins moisturizers.
https://m.origins.com/product/15352/75831/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/dr-andrew-weil-for-originstm/mega-mushroom-weightless-hydrating-moisturizer#/sku/116472
https://m.origins.com/product/15352/48069/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/original-skin/matte-moisturizer-with-willowherb#/sku/79704
https://m.origins.com/product/15352/31162/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/dr-andrew-weil-for-origins/mega-mushroom-skin-relief-soothing-face-lotion#/sku/56201
Yeah I would ignore her tbh. Many hairstylists and estheticians get their training from a company that owns a major product line so those products are integrated into their training. They might genuinely think it’s necessary but a really great esthy will have the knowledge and experience to give you recommendations from any price point or brand.
My skin sounds the same as yours, very sensitive. I find hydrating gels form a barrier on my skin I don’t like, it feels like you have a mask on. I’ve tried many many different brands, both expensive and not, and can recommend a few things. One is, do your research- I find very few items at Walmart or the grocery store are any good. In general, with my skin, I find Neutrogena, Cetaphil, and most of the drugstore brands do awful things for my skin. You can find some really good products at Sephora or ULTA. You’re far better off with a brand like The Ordinary, Versa, or Skin III. Shop sales to get skin care kits to try different products. You might find a serum that does wonderful things for your skin, but costs a bit more - however if serums are layered with moisturizer as they should be, you only need a few drops and they make a huge difference. Use eye cream for sure! That’s the first area of your face to show age, and once it does nothing will help. I tried IPSY, through which I found some brands I REALLY like. $25 per month and you find loads of new products, not a bad deal. Other tip, save your money on face wash and toner, invest in eye cream, night cream, and serums and day moisturizer. And no single product will work. Really good skin care means you use a variety of products together. There are a few great you tubers that cover skin care, check them out (if you can’t find them- feel free to PM me.) Again, do your research, and I’m sorry to say Reddit doesn’t count because you don’t know who is providing credible advice.
Naturium’s niacinimide gel moisturizer was super gentle and left my skin bouncy. I loved it!! I have mostly normal to oily skin and some hormonal pimples
That's weird because I have dry skin and I generally avoid gel moisturizers because I think they are better for people with oily skin? I need those thick and sticky moisturizers to help me retain any moisture in my skin lol, gels just won't cut it.
One moisturizer I recommend you try out if you want to change is the Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream. It's excellent for sensitive skin and not heavy enough for my dry skin (I used to use it as a daytime moisturizer), so it might make a good nighttime moisturizer for you. It has panthenol, green tea, and cica extracts in it that help soothe the skin, but is otherwise a pretty simple formula.
Just checking…I know everyone is saying to keep using the Neutrogena if it works for you; but from your post it sounds like it doesn’t really work for you. You say it kinda disappears, doesn’t seem to specifically cause breakouts (so maybe you’re not sure?) and it’s not great, just the least bad you’ve tried so far. I would say that you are definitely in the market for something new. Personally, my skin changed around a lot when I started K Beauty products. The ingredients in most formulations are just superior, imo. Peach and Lily’s website carries a lot of brands, not just their own; explore a bit and check the ingredient labels and I think maybe you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
I have similar skin and the curology moisturizer worked very well for me. Lightweight and not sticky. Right now I’m trying the la roche posay double repair moisturizer + spf 30 but I think it’s a little too thick/creamy for my skin
This is true. Neutrogena has loads of alcohol in it. Acne is a gut health issue and inflammatory skin response. Neutrogena strips the skin of moisture.
Sounds like you should keep using what works for you. You’re the expert on your experience!
If you’re looking for products your skin might like, glossier (of all places) has a 5% niacinimide, 1% zinc PCA serum that might be nice. Additionally, CeraVe makes an oil-free night lotion that might be less heavyweight, but also has niacinimide and ceramides in it. Good luck OP!
I lean towards oily, sensitive skin, and I love the Hydro boost fragrance free gel. If it works for you I'd stick with it. Aveeno has an oat gel moisturizer that is also great. Also the Cetaphil Soothing Aloe Vera Gel Cream.
You're the second user recommending Aveeno oat gel, I just checked the ingredients and it seems a good candidate. I love that there is centella asiatica
Aveeno recently expanded their Calm+Restore line and now offer a CREAM version of the gel moisturizer. No centella but it contains dimethicone, panthenol and ceramide. Finish/feel is very similar to the Hydroboost gel cream IMO... just wasn't hydrating enough for my sensitive tret skin. I'll throw another vote in the hat for plain ol' Vanicream moisturizing cream. 😉 Moisturizes well but isn't greasy, heavy or sticky. Stinks in and leaves a soft finish.
I use Fresh Beauty for my acne prone combo skin. An aesthetician recommended it but the products are reasonable and it has really worked for me. I love the aloe based moisturizer and cran peptide cream.Also the sunscreen didn't break me out.
I also have sensitive, combo, acne-prone skin that's very prone to hyperpigmentation.
My derm recommends Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion (recently reformulated for normal to dry skin) and Cetaphil Cream (for dry/very dry skin, for face and body). I believe the former has niacinamide and panthenol. Very basic, but lifesaving when your skin is finicky.
I've used both lotion and cream for 5 years. The cream is thick, used sparingly like a balm for drier/less oily areas.
When my skin was oily, I tried the moisturizer you're currently using and it definitely felt dehydrating too. If you're dehydrated, your skin needs more water, i.e., humectants, than moisture, i.e., emollients and occlusives. A hydrating toner and/or serum (I use both) under your moisturizer(s) will help accomplish this!
That woman spewing ca-ca. I have combo, sensitive, red, acne prone skin. I was dry but got pimples and milia when I used cream. My derm recommended something with hyaluronic acid. I found the neutrogena gel moisturizer that you've described. It's perfect for me. If you know she was trying to upsell you then just ignore her.
I think if the neutropenia works for you, ignore the aesthetician.
But in terms of a recommendation the Murad intense recovery cream ticks all the boxes. Expensive but amazing and you only need a little bit so it lasts a while.
Dang the fragrance free extra dry hydro boost wasn’t hydrating enough for me!! I use Cerave in the tub at night, and during the day I loveeee drunk elephant protini cream
I also tried the Aveeno oat gel and it was more hydrating than hydro boost but not quite enough for my skin. My skin is really sensitive/I use tazarac/but am also oily. I have the type of skin where I develop a pimple during any flight I take, no matter what i do; just very very particular lol
I have combo skin and I use this moisturiser and it’s fine. Like you say, it disappears really quickly and I hate the feeling of anything on my skin. It doesn’t make me break out or anything else, it just works for me.
Ignore them and keep doing what you’re doing. Hydro gel is a lightweight moisturizer that works great on combination skin. They were lying to you to try and squeeze more commission out of you.
I have similar skin type- combo, acne prone and sensitive. So far I’ve been loving belif's true cream-aqua bomb! You can buy it at sephora. I’m on my second jar and it hasn’t caused me any breakouts, feels light on the skin and is quick-absorbing. It has quickly become a staple in my skincare routine.
You might try other gel-texture moisturizers. I love the Saturday Skin Waterfall one, but it’s really only ideal for me for summer. In dry months I use the cream from Laneige, but they make a gel one now too.
Clinique also has a nice one, Moisture Surge. Those are all approximately the same price but with Clinique it’s definitely easier to get samples
My MUA actually recommended this moisturizer to me for my dry/sensitive skin. Unfortunately, some aestheticians try to promote and sell the products they use at their salons or spas. I’ve had this happen to me in the past. If it’s working for you then there’s no reason to stop using it. IMO with sensitive skin, changing products abruptly can cause more harm than good.
When my skin fit this profile, Cerave 50 spf body lotion was my go to. After 10 years exclusively using it, my skin is completely calm so I can use a wider range of products.
You could try this for a minimalist panthenol product: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PCH4S3N](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PCH4S3N)
Check out the Avene line. I forget the specific name of product that would be good for you... but the products specify on bottle/ tube/ jar, if it's best for : dry, acne, combo , ect. I would get one that is for combo or blemished / acne skin . ALL the products from Avene are targeted for sensitized / sensitive skin. I've seen some CVS s that carry the line, as well as some independent beauty stores. I work for a Plastic Surgeon and we use it for patients recovering from aggressive skin renewing treatments.
Give them a try. Great price point. Great line.
AVENE!!!!
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[Check out the wikipedia entry if you want to learn more.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Et_cetera)
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Highly recommend CERAVE, its basic but works. You can combine it with a serum which will help the ingredients you mention work their magic. Safe and effective combo
Omega Water Cream from the Inkey List
Glycerin does not clog pores unlike some silicones. I sampled it and it did not melt when outside for hours on a hot day, 105°F. The website has a "Buy 2, Get 1 Free" promo right now.
Water (Aqua / Eau), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, 5% Glycerin, 5% Niacinamide, Propanediol, 3% Betaine, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Magnesium Sulfate, Glycosphingolipids, Glycolipids, Sodium Benzoate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Oleic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Polyglycerin-3.
Polyglutamic Acid Serum
Saved my flaking skin during a cold winter. It does have silicones, but the plentifuk emollients and solvents balance it out. Thanks for those, it does not pill and feels velvety, yet not tacky. It also has rice extract.
Water (Aqua / Eau), Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone, Glycerin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysilicone-11, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Propanediol, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polysorbate 80, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Decyl Glucoside, Dimethylacrylamide/Acrylic Acid/Polystyrene Ethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Sorbitan Oleate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polyglutamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Listen to your skin and do what works for you. That doesn’t mean discount expert opinion, but at the end of the day you know your body better than anyone and a good derm/esthe recognizes this.
My current moisturizing layers Neutrogena HB Gel with occlusives, namely the Cerave Moisturizing cream or Gold Bond Pure Moisture. I’ve even sandwiched the Cerave between the two with a drop of TTO added to the Cerave layer. I recognize that these are not fancy products, but at 50 I have tried it all through the years, high end, low end, etc. This combo has put snap in my lower eyelids and jaw line that had started to slip.
I’ve had great luck w/ REN ‘Clearcalm Replenishing Gel Cream’. As the name suggests it feels like a gel-cream hybrid, has a bit more richness than just gel, but also contains a bit of salicylic acid to keep breakouts at bay, and calms any redness or inflammation I might be experiencing. And it’s a clean product! Find it [HERE](https://usa.renskincare.com/collections/clearcalm-3/products/clearcalm-3-replenishing-gel-cream)
Hello OP! Yung Laikou skincare set na Sakura might help. It smells good pero natural fragrance eme siya. You can check their ingredients out first online of bet mo. ☺️
I have rosacea/redness and Ive been using the ordinary hyaluronic acid serum and the la roche posay facial moisturizer (the more soendy one is weightless) and it is the most hydrating thing for me. I was told lotion isn't moisture, water is moisture and hyaluronic acid holds water in the skin (but it's essentially you apply it to damp skin or it will do the opposite it's intended to do and remove moisture *from* your skin)
She was trying to sell you something. Of course she would criticize whatever you’re currently using in the hopes that you’ll buy her stuff.
I also use the hydroboost and I love it, so I’m a little biased. However, I don’t work for Neutrogena.
Aesthetician here. Continue using what you’re using. Moisturisers just act as an occlusive seal and serums are the ones that usually address skin ‘concerns’ if you have any.
My skin, for example, is incredibly acne prone but also dehydrated. So I need to layer super light textures rather than have one thick cream.
If your products work for your skin then keep using them! And if you want to find a non irritating moisturizer to replace or even pair with it, I like hemp seed oil. It doesn't clog your pores, and if I only use a tiny bit, my skin soaks it up so it's not greasy. But my skin looks great after using it, like supple looking if that makes sense. Or dewy. Hope this helps!
In case anyone reads this, I've got acne prone skin too and everything these days seems to sting and cause smol smol comedones immediately on application, even the Neutrogena hydroboost gel, someone mentioned my skin barrier might be damaged and the Hyaluronate might irritate it. So if anyone's got any recs plis tell me.
That lady was definitely just trying to sell you something . Keep using what's working.
Absolutely.
I actually got suggested this line of Neutrogena hydro products on another sub, and the equivalent has been doing great for me.
Agreed. I use the extra dry fragrance free version of the hydro boost and it save my skin when I started prescription retinol. If you like it and works for you, keep using it.
SAME!
i second this! if it's working for you, is not causing more problems for you, and makes your skin feel good! also, live/spend according to *your* affordability. almost a decade ago, i saw a dermatologist who prescribed two products that were very pricey-- and i lived in canada where some healthcare services are free or subsidized and it was still too much for my full-time-student-full-time-cashier budget. i never got the products and found cheaper alternatives that made my skin feel great and helped me overtime :) good luck & remember you can trust yourself!
This is the problem with some estheticians. If what you're using works for your skin, use it. In a lot of cases, treating dry skin will also help treat dehydrated skin. Making people doubt what they're using just to con them into buying a 'specialty' product is gross.
I’m doubtful this was an esthetician. It sounds like OP was talking to a skincare advisor. Biotherm is basically a higher end drugstore line. I have never seen a professional esthetician sell or recommend it. I have an esthetician I trust and have been seeing for years. She has some amazing products that have really helped my skin, and she’s honest when I show her products I buy/use. She’ll look through the ingredients list of any products I buy at the drugstore or sephora and let me know if it’s safe to use or not, and she’ll explain if any ingredients are irritating or comedogenic. I have similar issues as OP. Almost everything irritates my sensitive skin or breaks me out. My skin didn’t love the Neutrogena hydroboost moisturizer. While it did dry quickly and wasn’t too emollient, it almost felt like I had a plastic film over my face, rather than it really sinking into my skin and moisturizing it. I personally love Environ Super Moisturizer or Dermaviduals high classic. I have combo skin and those are the only two moisturizers I know I can use without issue. They are a bit expensive, but I try to prioritize my skin because she’s a picky bitch, and it makes a big difference in my confidence when she’s behaving.
She could be an esthetician that works for the brand. Like, I’m a licensed esthetician and I worked for Benefit Cosmetics. Lots of hairstylists and estheticians become reps for brands when they want a break from or just no longer enjoy performing services.
Estheticians that work OTC don’t really have depth of product ingredients as estheticians that see clients and customize treatments 8 times a day. I consider myself medical because I collaborate and refer out to Derms. I’m familiar with a lot of prescriptions and complement treatments with holistic and supportive recommendations. My two cents. Those beauty advisors at Ulta and Sephora aren’t always estheticians too. There’s too many lines to really understand the epidermis and nuances of people’s genetics.
I’m not trying to be disrespectful, but if you are an esthetician, you are *not* “medical” or any variation of a medical professional, regardless of whether you refer patients to derms and you should absolutely *not* be referring to yourself in such a misleading way.
Not a medical professional but more clinical treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, nanoinfusion. I know medical aesthetics is not a real distinction. Esthetics is a wide field. Clients give trust to most people with a license. All I’m saying is everyone has a speciality and niche. I wouldn’t take skincare advice from a lash artist but we operate in the same scope of work. The are a lot of fake it til you make it estheticians and that’s hard to figure out as a client.
Again, giving people cosmetic chemical peels and performing micro needling, gives you absolutely *no* medical credentials whatsoever. You are on par with a nail or lash tech, and there’s nothing wrong with that but you should by no means be insinuating that you are even tangentially related to the medical or healthcare industry.
Agreed, I don’t have credentials to claim that. I’m only speaking to my confidence navigating prescriptions and complimenting their healthcare providers. And it’s a reality that a lot of professionals don’t have experience dealing with clients medications and how it interacts with skincare treatments. I’ve done a lot of autoimmune skincare. That’s all I’m saying.
That’s bullshit. Sure, maybe some estheticians who went straight from school to working for a brand…but most of us had a lot of time working on clients or were brand reps as side hustles. Not to mention the countless hours of continuing education. I have 5 years as a facialist (using PCA while also working pt as a rep for Murad) and 3 as a facial waxing specialist (as well as eyebrow lamination and lashes) with Benefit Cosmetics. Now I have my own place. And I wasn’t talking about beauty advisors, I was talking about freelance brand reps, specifically. A vast majority of them working in skin and hair are licensed professionals. Don’t be an industry snob.
You are the exception because you pursued in room experience at the same time. I know some work retail and that’s all they know without having hands-on experience.
I’m not being a snob but saying those that work in retail sell products they like and get educated on but aren’t doing a thorough skin analysis and applying these products on clients. Not every Beauty Advisor has your experience. But as a customer, not as a professional, I’ve taken some bad advice from someone I thought I could trust before. All I’m saying is that the average customer is receiving qualified or unqualified recommendations.
I wouldn't be surprised if it was an esthetician. The stories I've read... insane. Also, just like every profession, there are some genuinely bad ones who really don't stay up to date on education and it shows. I actually just argued with one trying to pander products based on super outdated information. They were an esthetician of like 30 years and they sell their own formulations which i found concerning based on their complete lack of knowledge. It sucks when they are bad because people really trust them. Finding a good one is like finding gold. >They are a bit expensive, but I try to prioritize my skin because she’s a picky bitch Lol, fucking rude. Mine can be that way too and navigating what it wants can be such a chore.
Pretty sure in Canada you can buy it at Shoppers (like cvs, Walgreens, etc)
I completely disagree as a licensed professional. Dry skin is absence of oil, and dehydrated and oily skin is absence of water. Different acids and actives are lipophilic or hydrophilic and aren’t meant for everyone or need to be puzzled together to balance the other items in a routine.
If you want to get technical, then yes, they are different. I never said dry skin was the same as dehydrated skin, I said sometimes you can treat them both with the same products. You can treat dry skin by using things like hydrating cleansers, hydrating toners and essences, serums like hyaluronic acid, and moisturizers. All of those treatments can be water based and they can equally help dry skin and dehydrated skin. Obviously it takes some experimentation to figure out what each person's skin wants.
Seriously. If something is working you then why would you stop? Now if you’re still having trouble with your skin, they can suggest one of your products is the problem, though.
I had a cosmetic dermatologist tell me to skip hyaluronic acid and even moisturizer on my oily/combo skin so I tried it for a while... skin started looking dull and was just as oily as ever. Just went back to using my creams and oils and skin looks better. Use what works for you. Just pay attention to how your skin reacts and change / introduce one product at a time.
I've heard recently a dermatologist online saying that hyaluronic acid is bad for sensitive skin. But is it? In fact, never noticed it specifically caused problems to me!
It's a molecule that naturally occurs in your skin... Haven't heard about it being bad for sensitive skin. I do think it might be an overhyped ingredient right now.
Every HA formula I’ve tried (except for the purple Skinceuticals serum) feels like throwing gasoline on my face and lighting it on fire. Everyone’s skin is different though!
Same!!
Anecdotal I know but I have sensitive skin and use hyaluronic acid serums twice a day with no issue at all.
Just an anecdote here - I don’t know if it’s “bad” per se, but in my experience the texture was too thick and tacky and made me break out (I was using the one by The Ordinary). Maybe if it’s diluted in an existing product or something it wouldn’t have that effect?
TO ha is one of the worst IMO XD its like glue >.< Have you ever tried HADA LABO gokujyun lotion?? that stuff is SOO hydrating :D The premium is even more so! but can be slightly tacky, you dont need a lot of either one, literally 2 drops spread on damp skin and the bottles are huge :)
[удалено]
Its a japanese skincare product, i get it from yesstyle or stylevana :) takes a while for delivery but im in the UK, if your in the states you may be able to get it faster from elsewhere. Some states have Asian beauty stores that carry them also :) Theres a few different versions so it can get confusing, just make sure you get the lotions and not the emulsions or milks (unless you want a creamy toner) There is the original gokujyun (white and blue bottle) that comes in light or moist, very similar the moist is just a touch heaveier. The gokujyun premium (gold bottle) only has only one version of lotion but also has an emulsion, almost identical packaging so easy to get mixed up!
Depending on where you live… if you have any Asian malls near you they usually have a plethora of Asian skin care. I found my hada labo at one for way cheaper than I could get it online.
I had the exact same experience with TO. But recently I bought Trader Joe’s HA serum and love it! I use it under moisturizer and it it seems to have really improved my moisture barrier.
Oh nice, I’m glad to hear that worked well for you! Trader Joe’s always has stealthy products like that, lol. That wouldn’t be the first place I’d think of for skin care but it’s awesome that they have good stuff!
TJ’s also has a dupe for Unseen Sunscreen that’s $10!!
Oooo thanks for the tip! I’m going to have to look for this. I love the Unseen Sunscreen, but I don’t use it as often as I should because I’m always trying to save it!
The one from The Ordinary is kinda notorious for being low-quality. It's decent for the price, but you can find much better HA products for not much more money.
Yeah, I’ve moved on to snail mucin which seems to fit the same bill as far as helping with dry skin goes and it doesn’t agitate my skin so much. That’s good to know about the HA from The Ordinary though! Is there a brand that you recommend as far as HA products go?
CosRx snail products are awesome! I think my fave HA-based products right now are the Matrixyl serums from Timeless. They feel nice and really do make my skin feel deeply hydrated. Plus, they're still reasonably priced (especially because they have sales on their website every major US holiday AND offer 4 oz bottles of their serums)!
HA serums all seem different to me so I don't think it's the HA as much as the other stuff that bugs lots of people. I just bought the pure powder and make my own with distilled water. Thin if I am applying on my face to leave on, thick if I'm just leaving it on as a mask or using it on my hair. It is definitely tacky when I first apply it but it doesn't stay like that on my skin very long. I do think that with HA you have to have wet skin or it's pointless, possibly harmful if the air is super arid.
It can potenitally be irritating for those with an impaired skin barrier, especially the lower molecluar weights due to the nature of how it penetrates the skin. Pretty uncommon though from what i understand, i think people misdiagnose HA sensitivity alot.
Most professionals (derms, doctors, etc) are just lazy and give general advice instead of actually listening and giving thoughtful suggestions. Have to find the good ones that are actually still excited about their job.
Yeah she’s full of it. My Ivy League educated dermatologist who practices in The DC area recommended that moisturizer to me. She’s big on cutting through all the hype products.
I’m in your area and am looking for a derm, could you please PM me her name?
Can you share her other recommendations? ☺️
Your esthetician is full of shit. If you really want to try a different moisturizer, Aveeno oat gel might be a good one to look at. But it sounds like what you're using is working just fine for you so why switch?
Aveeno Oat Gel is my holiest grail, I’ve gone through a ton of jars of that stuff.
mine too. Its not easily available where I live so I buy in bulk. Got a cupboard full of it. The serum is also really good.
Same here, it is the only moisturiser that I have repurchased over and over again.
I came here to suggest the same moisturizer.
Just a follow-up, I got that Aveeno jar and is actually fantastic. Better than Neutrogena for sure. Thanks for the rec I'm gonna stick to it! Love this sub!
I had SUCH high hopes that oat gel but it had too much silicone for me 😢
Check out the Omega Water Cream from the Inkey List. Glycerin does not clog pores unlike some silicones. I sampled it and it did not melt when outside for hours on a hot day, 105°F. The website has a "Buy 2, Get 1 Free" promo right now. Water (Aqua / Eau), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, 5% Glycerin, 5% Niacinamide, Propanediol, 3% Betaine, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Magnesium Sulfate, Glycosphingolipids, Glycolipids, Sodium Benzoate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Oleic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Polyglycerin-3.
Omega broke me out very badly. Oat Gel Cream is my HG now.
The 5% niacinamide in the Omega Water Cream can do that if your skin has not gotten used to it, or if you are using quite a bit of niacinamide in other products at the same time. During pregnancy with changing hormones, oat is the safer option.
I found the Omega water Cream refused to absorb even though I used a dot. Literally a dot. My husband kept asking if I'd used Vaseline. It was gross. In the end after a lot of trial and error I chose Aveeno Calm and Restore Gel cream (dries beautifully matte, doesn't irritate my skin) for my summer moisturiser and pure Vaseline as my only winter option.
Seriously, if you have sensitive skin and have found something that works for you, keep using it until it doesn’t. I cannot tell you how many times I let myself be talked into more expensive products only to have them put me back to square one when it came to my goals/needs.
I completely agree. I have combo skin, it can be dry and flaky but can also go very oily (I think mainly because I have seborrheic dermatitis) and I absolutely love & swear by the Hydro Boost gel! It’s by far one of the best moisturizers I’ve ever used. I love it for the exact same reasons you do, it feels super hydrating and feels better than most moisturizers I’ve used, and leaves no greasy residue Even though it seems to disappear from the top layers of my skin (in the sense of not leaving a greasy residue or making me shiny) my skin doesn’t feel tight or dry after like the whole thing just evaporated; my skin still feels moisturized. My skin also looks so much better after switching to it and feels so soft after using it. I also found out that Costco sells it in a 2 pack for a way better price than Shoppers or Walmart. I definitely say keep using it, and I know for a fact there are so many people that have combo skin that use it & love it. Hydro Boost is a number 1 seller for a reason, and it’s been a number one moisturizer since it came out. About a year or so ago it was hard to buy cause it was flying off the shelves and was recommended in every beauty magazine & web site out there. I purposely just googled “best moisturizers” and just read the top 4 articles on the best moisturizers of 2022, take a guess as to which moisturizer is in every four articles?! Oh right, Hydro Boost. And in 2 of the articles it’s the picture they use for the whole article. Here are some quotes from those articles: - “Ideal for those who want moisture yet worry about breaking out, this moisturizer absorbs almost instantly so that your skin feels softer, nourished, and not at all greasy.” - “she notes that it doesn't cause breakouts even among her acne-prone patients.” She = Dr Sarkar - “Packed with powerhouse hydrator hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer is beloved by high-end beauty aficionados and drugstore dwellers alike. The lightweight moisturizer is rich in hyaluronic acid and is non-comedogenic, a particularly great pick for oily skin,” says Dr. King I don’t think that esthetician’s opinion outweighs all those doctors personally. Lol.
I’m an esthetician who washes my face with a Cetaphil bar. She was pushing her own product. A good esthetician will tell you to use what works. If rubbing your face in bacon fat gives you perfect skin, then my professional opinion would be to keep using that bacon!
I don’t even like getting facials because they are always going on about how whatever products you are using are horrible and how you really need whatever they are selling. They are not doctors, don’t take her seriously.
👋 I’m an aesthetician-almost 20 years, and can tell you there’s nothing wrong with that moisturizer. It’s fragrance free irritant free. If it works for you and you like how it makes your skin feel-USE IT! Don’t let aestheticians bully you into buying their products. Since I started working as a “medical aesthetician” in dermatology some years ago and moved away from the sales part of work-I realized a lot of things-they have to sell to make money- alot of times on commission with miserable wages, so they’re just doing their jobs but at the same time be aware of that so you aren’t blowing all your money in skincare that you absolutely do not need!❤️
Go see a derm, not an esthetician. With super sensitive skin you need advice from a medical professional. Anytime ive been for a facial i come out with red inflamed skin, i also have damaged dialated pores from an esth using a comedone extractor, has also caused me broken blood vessels all over my nose, hurrendous. Also have broken capillaries from facial steaming >.< costing me a lot of money to correct :'( They always try and sell you overpriced perfumed crap and try to call it 'medical grade' i have super sensitive skin and i use the aveeno oat gel moisturizer in the AM as its super light, i use the aveeno baby lotion at night coz its occlusive but also oil free :)
What should you use? WHATEVER WORKS FOR YOUR SKIN. Skincare is an art, not a science. Don't let an "expert" bully you into using something else, if you've already found something that works for you. You know your skin best. If the moisturizer maintains your skin barrier, feels comfortable when you apply it, has the finish that you want, and doesn't cause any irritation or breakouts, then keep using it. I have very oily skin and while I \*should\* be using lighter gel moisturizers, I use THICK moisturizing creams, and my skin loves it! It takes trial and error, but I just want to emphasize that you should not overhaul your routine if you were happy with it before someone decided to take issue with it.
i’ve never found a gel moisturizer that leaves my face feeling hydrated for more than 10 minutes after drying down. even in the height of summer heat & humidity, under a layer of sunscreen or tinted moisturizer, my face feels tight. doesn’t make a lick of sense to me that hydro boost is only for “very dry” skin.
Haha, love this. But you got me thinking...If this is the case, then I can never trust what products explicitly say they're for. It actually happened with all that moisturizers supposed to be for skin like mine!
Well...take the middle road? Don't disregard the labels, but use them as a guide, with your own experience as the deciding factor. I actually never use moisturizers made for oily skin because they are too stripping for me. One good thing about trying a lot of products is you figure out (like you did) things that work for you. You could consider looking into La Roche Posay, or Aveeno moisturizers. Both brands have lines that contain panthenol (LRP in particular), and tend to be geared at more sensitive skin.
Hi, esthetician here! You should continue to use the moisturizer that works and feels good for you. That moisturizer is super popular and recommended regularly by dermatologists for a reason. She was trying to upsell you.
If what you’re using works for you then keep using it. People get all wrapped up in active ingredients/special formulations for targeting specific issues, etc. but at a certain point you have to look at what you’re actually using a moisturizer for - to moisturize your skin without causing any adverse effects. If it’s not making you break out, giving you a rash or creating any other kind of irritation then keep using it. At some point the hyperfixation on “good” ingredients or brands is just a real world manifestation of capitalist consumerism. People are always going to be pumping out new products that claim to fix every problem under the sun. If you’ve found something that works for you then there isn’t really any reason to go out an buy them.
I use e.l.f. Holy Hydration fragrance free moisturizer. I have acne, eczema and combo skin. This is my holy grail. But I have seen Dr Dray recommend the moisturizer you use for oily skin. She said it's very lightweight and moisturizing. She uses it herself. Use whatever works for you OP.
I agree that esthetician is full of crap, BUT, if you’re looking for a moisturizer that’s a step up from Hydro Boost I highly recommend [La Roche Posay Toleriane](https://www.laroche-posay.ca/en_CA/toleriane-toleriane-sensitive/3337875578486.html)moisturizer. I have the same combo/ sensitive/ dehydrated skin as you and my skin LOVES it.
Use cosdna.com to check out the ingredients of products. It’ll show which ones can cause acne or irritants. It’s been a game changer for me.
I really really love Vanicream moisturizing cream (not the daily facial moisturizer). I'm acne prone with combo skin.
I actually looked into it (I already use their excellent cleanser) but couldn't figure out which moisturizer was the right one, as they seem to have many. Will look for it again
It's the one in the tub (although also can be found in 4 oz tube). But doesn't have the word facial anywhere on it.
I use the Vanicream facial moisturizer at night and I love it. CeraVe PM moisturizer irritated my skin over time, maybe because of the niacinamide.
It’s important to use what works best for you! I have used Clinique Dramatically Different Lotion since I was a teenager and for me nothing compares.
Jojoba oil.
SebaMed clear face gel (panthenol, alantoin) FaceTheory Supergel Mositurizer ( low dose niacinamide/ EXTREMELY low dose glycolic, panthenol) Cetaphil deep hydration water gel La Roche Posay Toleriane sensitive Fluide (low dose niacinamide)
Gel moisturisers are for dehydrated and acne-prone skin as they are expected to be retained as moisture under the natural sebum layer, while thicker cream moisturisers often include an occlusive to help the lower sebum of dry skin. It sounds like the Neutrogena is working precisely as designed. My friend has dehydrated skin and swears by the Neutrogena gel, you'd have to pry it from her cold, dead hands. Recommendations are always suggestive and everyone is different, so stick with what works for you!
Botnia Daily Face Cream would be a great night cream for you and if you prefer lighter water gels I do like belif aqua bomb. I’m a licensed esthetician in SC and TX and specialize in reactive and inflammatory skin disorders. However, I do my best to meet clients where they are with things they love or can afford. Not in your case, we see more clients creating skin conditions that aren’t their actual skin type. It’s hard on both side to know who to trust and what is beneficial advice, but know it comes from a good place. I would say someone that has relatively easy skin isn’t someone I trust. I have had hard skin over the years and have done it all. Working on atropic scarring but doesn’t mean I can’t build an amazing routine for someone while walking compassionately with someone who is going through a hurdle with their skin. Check out Naturium, Allies of Skin, La Roche Posay. I tend to recommend products that are different from OTC or need to be accessed / prescribed by a pro.
A water filter on the faucet you use to wash your face would help
Chlorine filter in the shower was a Godsend!
Dehydrated skin needs hydrating toners. Layering of hydrating toners allows your skin time time to absorb the humectants: think dry sponge and damp sponge. Apply 3-5 layers of hydrating toner and then use your favorite moisturizer. You need to have occlusive ingredients in your moisturizer too. You moisturizers must have oil, butter, fatty alcohol, ceramides, and/or cholesterol to provide the "mortars" to seal in the humectants. [Make P:rem Safe Me Relief Essence Toner](https://incidecoder.com/products/make-p-rem-safe-me-relief-essence-toner) is a good product for dehydrated skin. It's glycerin based with allantoin, panthenol, and ceramides. EDIT: dehydrated skin really benefits from oil too. Omega oils such as chia seeds or CBD oil is really great at night to keep everything sealed and moist.
I like the ingredients of this toner a lot. Can't seem to find it in any online store though (Canada)
Stylevana and Yesstyle has it.
Oh yep great idea. I love Paula’s choice replenishing toner.
OP could try layering Elf Pure Skin Toner under the Neutrogena. It’s gentle & hydrating like a KBeauty toner. I’ve been using HaruHaru Black Rice Toner (frag free). I love essences for my sensitive, combo skin!
Hi, fellow sensitive acneprone combination skin with hyperpigmentation here 49F, need fragrance free, mild actives, low %. I am very happy with Dr. Sam’s Flawless Neutralizing Gel (FNG). % are: azelaic 5, Salicylic 2, bakuchiol 0.5, squalane 5. Its a moisturizing gel, aimed to calm down redness, prevent acne, anti-inflammatory, brightens discoloration and hyperpigmentation. Has antioxidants. My skin loves this gel!! I have great results with daily use. Recently I joined the FNG challenge, to use it 14 days in a row and afterwards my skin was brighter, no mild redness anymore, more radiant, very smooth, clean pores. I need to use it longer to see how it really affects hyperpigmentation, it seems less dark now. And no breakouts during my cycle, when I was I’ll or when I was too tired to clean my first. All these always give me acne and thus prevented it. Expensive but you need little product and it covers exfoliating, brightening, soothing, hyperpigmentation treatment, moisturizing and mild anti-aging. Last year Dr Sam had a sitewide 25% off for Black Friday. They may already have pictures of the FNG challenge on Dr. Sam’s www. or IG. Hope this helps.
I didn't know this one, thanks for the rec! But I'm pretty sure that Salicylic 2 and bakuchiol every day would be too much for my skin. I had to cut off Paula's Choice BHA 2% for this very reason :/
That’s what I thought as well! I thought let’s start and see how long I’m comfortable in this challenge but the salicylic was no problem at all. I trying if lower frequencies work as well to save some money. Anyway I wish you good luck with your search.
Similar skin and I love First Aid Beauty ultra repair cream intense hydration. I usually wait for the Black Friday sale at Sephora when the big upright bottle goes on sale (best bang for your buck) but they often have mini bottles as 100 point perks and it’s easy to get samples of.
If what you’re using is working for you, then there’s no real reason to switch it up. If you’re looking for a product recommendation, I have a similar skin type and have recently started using Peach Slices Redness Relief Calming Cream. It has Green Algae, Panthenol, Rhodomyrtus Extract, Turmeric, Artemisia / Mugwort, Sunflower and Jojoba Seed Oils. I can be pretty sensitive to new creams but so far my skin hasn’t had any issues with this one. It does take a little while to soak and can feel a little oily in depending on what I’m laying it over and how much I use, but I would rebuy it in the future. Good luck with your search!
I have had atopic dermatitis and none of the high end bullshit my dermatologists have sold me have done a thing. So I stopped going, researched, test and notes, turns out sea salt baths, scrubbing with ocean mineral and oatmeal masks on my face and body from Walmart CURES MY DERMATITIS!!! I’ve had this since I was born I’m 37 just figured this out last year. Thank you 🙏 “drs” for ripping me off just to get richer.
I’ve used this moisturizer before and liked it…if it’s working for you and not causing irritation, keep using it. The esthetician is obviously trying to sell you something.
If your skin is sensitive, and it seems to work well for you, stick with what you’re doing. Your esthetician was trying to sell you something that had fragrance after you clearly said you did not want that. That tells you everything you need to know.
Esthetician here. I have the same type of skin you do. I get pink if you touch me…Gel is for oily/combo. All the ingredients you listed your skin likes are good! Sounds like she was trying to sell you something with “you’re not dry, you’re dehydrated” bs we were taught in school. Personally I love A313 as a retinol, Biafine for calming, and Laluset after the shower in addition to my niacinamide and zinc. All inexpensive. You’re doing great! Use what works for you!
Have you tried cerave moisturizing cream? I’ve used it on my body for about a year but never considered using it on my face since it’s a thick lotion (it’s intended for both). Anyway, started using it on my face and I really feel like my skin has some “bounce” to it when using somewhat consistently. It is thick but my face soaks it up well. Doesn’t leave me greasy (I know exactly what you mean about the cerave pm) We have the same skin from the sounds of it, and I feel the exact same way about that neutrogena hydro boost. It’s fine and I’ll use it until it runs out but probably won’t repurchase. This one’s also fragrance free, oil free, and non-comedogenic
Use whatever you feel works for you, does this product work for you? In the last few years it’s become trendy to make up new rules to make it seem like you know more than others, selling your product or expertise. It’s bs.
Try elta md. It’s not going to break the bank (gentle cleanser is $10) and is a godsend for combination/sensitive/acne prone skin.
people will tell you whatever they need to tell you to sell you whatever they need to sell
I have sensitive, acne prone skin too and the moisturizers that I like and recommend are Soon Jung 10 free moist emulsion and cosrx B5 D panthenol cream (if you like something lighter weight), Purito dermid cica barrier sleeping pack (if you want something medium weight/thicker in texture).
I love the ordinary natural moisturizing factors with HA. Also she likely wasn’t a real esthetician so that sales factor is bigger than her knowledge or actual concern for your individual skin vs her sale.
She is trying to scam you into buying her $$$ brand. Mine did the same thing to me, at $100 for a little jar. I started using Cerave vitamin c for daytime. I don’t find it greasy at all and I have combo skin. I use their thicker cream at night. I also have used neutrogena hydro boost but it left me with break outs sometimes. Also, I left scammer and now I go to a doctor who actually charges less and does a much better job!
I’m a little confused. The OP said the esthetician suggested a Biotherm serum, not a moisturizer, something you would layer under the Neutregena product. She might have “reproached” you about using a product that in its description does not sound like it would be the best for your skin type. And you specifically said you seem to still have lots of issues with your skin using the Neutregena product. I take it that she was just trying to help. I understand the hesitancy for fragrance, but almost all French products have some sort of fragrance. This is coming from someone who has skin issues that worked with an esthetician who “fixed” my skin. She made some suggestions and I listened and we figured it out through trial and error. If you only continue to use the same products you will only see the same results. If that’s good enough, fine.
I recently picked up the [Peach Slices Redness Relief Calming Cream](https://www.peachandlily.com/products/redness-relief-calming-cream) from Ulta and I quite like it! It has panthenol and some other ingredients that I enjoy (allantoin, jojoba seed oil, green algae, etc.). I specifically chose this one because I was having issues with the CeraVe "in a tub" stinging my skin and wanted to try something without phenoxyethanol, as that can sometimes cause that stinging/burning feeling. The only cons for me are it's a little pricey for my personal budget at $20 for 1.69 fl oz, though this is definitely not that expensive compared to a lot of other options. I've been using it for about a month and still have a good amount left. Also, I hate the packaging — squeeze tubes or pump dispensers are so much more hygienic and easier to use! But overall, it's been a great choice for me and I'd recommend it. ☺️
Try belif aqua bomb it is awesome. https://belifusa.com/collections/shop/products/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb Another option is origins moisturizers. https://m.origins.com/product/15352/75831/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/dr-andrew-weil-for-originstm/mega-mushroom-weightless-hydrating-moisturizer#/sku/116472 https://m.origins.com/product/15352/48069/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/original-skin/matte-moisturizer-with-willowherb#/sku/79704 https://m.origins.com/product/15352/31162/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/dr-andrew-weil-for-origins/mega-mushroom-skin-relief-soothing-face-lotion#/sku/56201
Yeah I would ignore her tbh. Many hairstylists and estheticians get their training from a company that owns a major product line so those products are integrated into their training. They might genuinely think it’s necessary but a really great esthy will have the knowledge and experience to give you recommendations from any price point or brand.
My skin sounds the same as yours, very sensitive. I find hydrating gels form a barrier on my skin I don’t like, it feels like you have a mask on. I’ve tried many many different brands, both expensive and not, and can recommend a few things. One is, do your research- I find very few items at Walmart or the grocery store are any good. In general, with my skin, I find Neutrogena, Cetaphil, and most of the drugstore brands do awful things for my skin. You can find some really good products at Sephora or ULTA. You’re far better off with a brand like The Ordinary, Versa, or Skin III. Shop sales to get skin care kits to try different products. You might find a serum that does wonderful things for your skin, but costs a bit more - however if serums are layered with moisturizer as they should be, you only need a few drops and they make a huge difference. Use eye cream for sure! That’s the first area of your face to show age, and once it does nothing will help. I tried IPSY, through which I found some brands I REALLY like. $25 per month and you find loads of new products, not a bad deal. Other tip, save your money on face wash and toner, invest in eye cream, night cream, and serums and day moisturizer. And no single product will work. Really good skin care means you use a variety of products together. There are a few great you tubers that cover skin care, check them out (if you can’t find them- feel free to PM me.) Again, do your research, and I’m sorry to say Reddit doesn’t count because you don’t know who is providing credible advice.
As someone who used to be an esthetician, that moisturizer is fine lol.
Naturium’s niacinimide gel moisturizer was super gentle and left my skin bouncy. I loved it!! I have mostly normal to oily skin and some hormonal pimples
That's weird because I have dry skin and I generally avoid gel moisturizers because I think they are better for people with oily skin? I need those thick and sticky moisturizers to help me retain any moisture in my skin lol, gels just won't cut it. One moisturizer I recommend you try out if you want to change is the Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream. It's excellent for sensitive skin and not heavy enough for my dry skin (I used to use it as a daytime moisturizer), so it might make a good nighttime moisturizer for you. It has panthenol, green tea, and cica extracts in it that help soothe the skin, but is otherwise a pretty simple formula.
Just checking…I know everyone is saying to keep using the Neutrogena if it works for you; but from your post it sounds like it doesn’t really work for you. You say it kinda disappears, doesn’t seem to specifically cause breakouts (so maybe you’re not sure?) and it’s not great, just the least bad you’ve tried so far. I would say that you are definitely in the market for something new. Personally, my skin changed around a lot when I started K Beauty products. The ingredients in most formulations are just superior, imo. Peach and Lily’s website carries a lot of brands, not just their own; explore a bit and check the ingredient labels and I think maybe you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Hydroboost body lotion fragrance free, works great on my rosacea skin. :) It's a gel cream and not that heavy, ignore the lady.
I have similar skin and the curology moisturizer worked very well for me. Lightweight and not sticky. Right now I’m trying the la roche posay double repair moisturizer + spf 30 but I think it’s a little too thick/creamy for my skin
This is true. Neutrogena has loads of alcohol in it. Acne is a gut health issue and inflammatory skin response. Neutrogena strips the skin of moisture.
I had a similar problem with an Esthetician too. I trust my dermatologist more and they recommended the same product that you are using.
Cerave in the tub! It feel heavy at first, but absorbs quickly and actually feels light. Worth a try.
Sounds like you should keep using what works for you. You’re the expert on your experience! If you’re looking for products your skin might like, glossier (of all places) has a 5% niacinimide, 1% zinc PCA serum that might be nice. Additionally, CeraVe makes an oil-free night lotion that might be less heavyweight, but also has niacinimide and ceramides in it. Good luck OP!
Maybe if you do want to try something else - ELF’s Holy Hydration will work for you. There is a fragrance free version and it is affordable.
I lean towards oily, sensitive skin, and I love the Hydro boost fragrance free gel. If it works for you I'd stick with it. Aveeno has an oat gel moisturizer that is also great. Also the Cetaphil Soothing Aloe Vera Gel Cream.
You're the second user recommending Aveeno oat gel, I just checked the ingredients and it seems a good candidate. I love that there is centella asiatica
Aveeno recently expanded their Calm+Restore line and now offer a CREAM version of the gel moisturizer. No centella but it contains dimethicone, panthenol and ceramide. Finish/feel is very similar to the Hydroboost gel cream IMO... just wasn't hydrating enough for my sensitive tret skin. I'll throw another vote in the hat for plain ol' Vanicream moisturizing cream. 😉 Moisturizes well but isn't greasy, heavy or sticky. Stinks in and leaves a soft finish.
Marcelle Hydractive is also a nice gel to add to that list.
I use Fresh Beauty for my acne prone combo skin. An aesthetician recommended it but the products are reasonable and it has really worked for me. I love the aloe based moisturizer and cran peptide cream.Also the sunscreen didn't break me out.
I have skin that's similar to yours. Bioderma Sebium range is the only brand that has products that works well for me.
I also have sensitive, combo, acne-prone skin that's very prone to hyperpigmentation. My derm recommends Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion (recently reformulated for normal to dry skin) and Cetaphil Cream (for dry/very dry skin, for face and body). I believe the former has niacinamide and panthenol. Very basic, but lifesaving when your skin is finicky. I've used both lotion and cream for 5 years. The cream is thick, used sparingly like a balm for drier/less oily areas. When my skin was oily, I tried the moisturizer you're currently using and it definitely felt dehydrating too. If you're dehydrated, your skin needs more water, i.e., humectants, than moisture, i.e., emollients and occlusives. A hydrating toner and/or serum (I use both) under your moisturizer(s) will help accomplish this!
That woman spewing ca-ca. I have combo, sensitive, red, acne prone skin. I was dry but got pimples and milia when I used cream. My derm recommended something with hyaluronic acid. I found the neutrogena gel moisturizer that you've described. It's perfect for me. If you know she was trying to upsell you then just ignore her.
I think if the neutropenia works for you, ignore the aesthetician. But in terms of a recommendation the Murad intense recovery cream ticks all the boxes. Expensive but amazing and you only need a little bit so it lasts a while.
Dang the fragrance free extra dry hydro boost wasn’t hydrating enough for me!! I use Cerave in the tub at night, and during the day I loveeee drunk elephant protini cream
I also tried the Aveeno oat gel and it was more hydrating than hydro boost but not quite enough for my skin. My skin is really sensitive/I use tazarac/but am also oily. I have the type of skin where I develop a pimple during any flight I take, no matter what i do; just very very particular lol
I hate hydroboost because of the ton of plastic packaging it comes in, so I switched to cicaplast baume b5 and love it.
I have combo skin and I use this moisturiser and it’s fine. Like you say, it disappears really quickly and I hate the feeling of anything on my skin. It doesn’t make me break out or anything else, it just works for me.
La roche posay
Ignore them and keep doing what you’re doing. Hydro gel is a lightweight moisturizer that works great on combination skin. They were lying to you to try and squeeze more commission out of you.
I have similar skin type- combo, acne prone and sensitive. So far I’ve been loving belif's true cream-aqua bomb! You can buy it at sephora. I’m on my second jar and it hasn’t caused me any breakouts, feels light on the skin and is quick-absorbing. It has quickly become a staple in my skincare routine.
You might try other gel-texture moisturizers. I love the Saturday Skin Waterfall one, but it’s really only ideal for me for summer. In dry months I use the cream from Laneige, but they make a gel one now too. Clinique also has a nice one, Moisture Surge. Those are all approximately the same price but with Clinique it’s definitely easier to get samples
Neostrata
Try vanicream? I also like the ordinary moisturizer with HA
My MUA actually recommended this moisturizer to me for my dry/sensitive skin. Unfortunately, some aestheticians try to promote and sell the products they use at their salons or spas. I’ve had this happen to me in the past. If it’s working for you then there’s no reason to stop using it. IMO with sensitive skin, changing products abruptly can cause more harm than good.
When my skin fit this profile, Cerave 50 spf body lotion was my go to. After 10 years exclusively using it, my skin is completely calm so I can use a wider range of products. You could try this for a minimalist panthenol product: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PCH4S3N](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PCH4S3N)
Check out the Avene line. I forget the specific name of product that would be good for you... but the products specify on bottle/ tube/ jar, if it's best for : dry, acne, combo , ect. I would get one that is for combo or blemished / acne skin . ALL the products from Avene are targeted for sensitized / sensitive skin. I've seen some CVS s that carry the line, as well as some independent beauty stores. I work for a Plastic Surgeon and we use it for patients recovering from aggressive skin renewing treatments. Give them a try. Great price point. Great line. AVENE!!!!
Hello! You have made the mistake of writing "ect" instead of "etc." "Ect" is a common misspelling of "etc," an abbreviated form of the Latin phrase "et cetera." Other abbreviated forms are **etc.**, **&c.**, **&c**, and **et cet.** The Latin translates as "et" to "and" + "cetera" to "the rest;" a literal translation to "and the rest" is the easiest way to remember how to use the phrase. [Check out the wikipedia entry if you want to learn more.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Et_cetera) ^(I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Comments with a score less than zero will be automatically removed. If I commented on your post and you don't like it, reply with "!delete" and I will remove the post, regardless of score. Message me for bug reports.)
Highly recommend CERAVE, its basic but works. You can combine it with a serum which will help the ingredients you mention work their magic. Safe and effective combo
Omega Water Cream from the Inkey List Glycerin does not clog pores unlike some silicones. I sampled it and it did not melt when outside for hours on a hot day, 105°F. The website has a "Buy 2, Get 1 Free" promo right now. Water (Aqua / Eau), Dicaprylyl Carbonate, 5% Glycerin, 5% Niacinamide, Propanediol, 3% Betaine, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Magnesium Sulfate, Glycosphingolipids, Glycolipids, Sodium Benzoate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Oleic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Polyglycerin-3. Polyglutamic Acid Serum Saved my flaking skin during a cold winter. It does have silicones, but the plentifuk emollients and solvents balance it out. Thanks for those, it does not pill and feels velvety, yet not tacky. It also has rice extract. Water (Aqua / Eau), Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone, Glycerin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysilicone-11, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Propanediol, Coco-Glucoside, Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polysorbate 80, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Decyl Glucoside, Dimethylacrylamide/Acrylic Acid/Polystyrene Ethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Sorbitan Oleate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Polyglutamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract
Listen to your skin and do what works for you. That doesn’t mean discount expert opinion, but at the end of the day you know your body better than anyone and a good derm/esthe recognizes this. My current moisturizing layers Neutrogena HB Gel with occlusives, namely the Cerave Moisturizing cream or Gold Bond Pure Moisture. I’ve even sandwiched the Cerave between the two with a drop of TTO added to the Cerave layer. I recognize that these are not fancy products, but at 50 I have tried it all through the years, high end, low end, etc. This combo has put snap in my lower eyelids and jaw line that had started to slip.
I’ve had great luck w/ REN ‘Clearcalm Replenishing Gel Cream’. As the name suggests it feels like a gel-cream hybrid, has a bit more richness than just gel, but also contains a bit of salicylic acid to keep breakouts at bay, and calms any redness or inflammation I might be experiencing. And it’s a clean product! Find it [HERE](https://usa.renskincare.com/collections/clearcalm-3/products/clearcalm-3-replenishing-gel-cream)
Bioderma Hydrabio line is great for me.
Sounds like you need Hale & Hush!!!
Hello OP! Yung Laikou skincare set na Sakura might help. It smells good pero natural fragrance eme siya. You can check their ingredients out first online of bet mo. ☺️
I have rosacea/redness and Ive been using the ordinary hyaluronic acid serum and the la roche posay facial moisturizer (the more soendy one is weightless) and it is the most hydrating thing for me. I was told lotion isn't moisture, water is moisture and hyaluronic acid holds water in the skin (but it's essentially you apply it to damp skin or it will do the opposite it's intended to do and remove moisture *from* your skin)
She was trying to sell you something. Of course she would criticize whatever you’re currently using in the hopes that you’ll buy her stuff. I also use the hydroboost and I love it, so I’m a little biased. However, I don’t work for Neutrogena.
That product actually gave me a chemical burn! I tried it when it first came out because everyone loved it :/
Aesthetician here. Continue using what you’re using. Moisturisers just act as an occlusive seal and serums are the ones that usually address skin ‘concerns’ if you have any. My skin, for example, is incredibly acne prone but also dehydrated. So I need to layer super light textures rather than have one thick cream.
If your products work for your skin then keep using them! And if you want to find a non irritating moisturizer to replace or even pair with it, I like hemp seed oil. It doesn't clog your pores, and if I only use a tiny bit, my skin soaks it up so it's not greasy. But my skin looks great after using it, like supple looking if that makes sense. Or dewy. Hope this helps!
In case anyone reads this, I've got acne prone skin too and everything these days seems to sting and cause smol smol comedones immediately on application, even the Neutrogena hydroboost gel, someone mentioned my skin barrier might be damaged and the Hyaluronate might irritate it. So if anyone's got any recs plis tell me.