Soothing Agent

Skin-soothing ingredients are an exceptional group of ingredients that work to visibly calm signs of irritation or sensitivity when applied to skin. They’re often derived from plants, and the best of them deliver antioxidant benefits, too. Sensitive and sensitized skin, including eczema-, acne- and rosacea-prone skin, greatly benefits from using this group of ingredients. However, research has shown soothing ingredients are wonderful for all skin types. Think of skin-soothing ingredients as the level-headed friend who always keeps her cool when the heat is on. Skin-soothing agents work to diminish signs of irritation, including redness and blotchiness from environmental influences, like pollution and the sun. They do this by gently quieting sensitizing factors in skin’s surface, stopping the sources of distress before they make skin look as if it’s misbehaving. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L.

Hartman notes, “Since most skin damage via skin disorders has been linked to inflammation, this class of ingredients is beneficial for just about anyone dealing with a skin disorder. Even melasma has been identified as having an inflammatory component. The more we learn about the role of different receptors in the inflammatory skin cascade, the more important this class of ingredients becomes”. There’s more to love: The way skin-soothing agents calm skin also helps reduce signs of ageing. Essentially, the more you can keep ageing skin in a Zen-like state, the happier it will be—and the younger it will look! There are quite a few soothing ingredients used in skin care products, almost too many to list, but don’t let that deter you—we selected some of our most impactful favorites. Here are some of the best soothing ingredients, supported by stacks of published skincare research. These ingredients can be used by all skin types—even breakout-prone, extra-sensitive, and reddened skin. They’re even gentle enough for rosacea-prone skin.