Soothe Your Skin: Solutions for Sensitive Skin

Soothe Stinging Skin

Ever apply a lotion and then feel a burning sensation? Doctors aren't sure why, but certain ingredients irritate nerve endings in your skin.

Calm the culprits
Cooling facial mists or masks with anti-inflammatories offer quick relief. Good ones: Philosophy Hope Springs Eternal Deep Sea Ultra-Fine Hydrating Mist ($20, philosophy.com) and One Cucumber Aloe Calming Mask ($3, target.com).

Fight future flare-ups
Avoid common irritants, such as vitamin C, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and avobenzone, an ingredient in some sunscreens. Instead, use a mineral-based sunblock with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide; both have anti-inflammatory properties. Find them in Yes to Cucumbers Daily Calming Moisturizer SPF 30 ($15, drugstores).