The skincare world is full of products with tons of claims and promises, but many of those aren’t true. What’s more is that, while simple and gentle products are ideal for those with sensitive skin, not everyone has the patience to wait for results.
If you are looking for skincare products to get the job done effectively, some things work fast and well. Conversely, if you have sensitive skin that reacts to intense ingredients, you’ll want to avoid these products.
Those with sensitive skin should avoid cheap and fast-acting products, opting instead for a gentler route. If, however, your skin can handle some strength, you’ll be shocked at what the following products can do.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, $7.20 (shop here)
This treatment looks like blood, and we’re not going to lie: it stings. For under $8, though, you’ll be surprised by the effect this peeling solution can have on your skin. No, unlike the product name, it won’t actually make your skin peel off, but it will do a deep exfoliation that leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft.
Do be aware that this is an intense product and shouldn’t be left on the skin for longer than 10 minutes once a week. If you don’t like a tingling sensation, then this is not for you. If you think you can handle it, though, be sure to use sunscreen anytime you leave the house because this intense exfoliant leaves your skin more susceptible to sun damage.
Dr. Brandt Skincare PoreDermabrasion Pore Perfecting Exfoliator, $58 (shop here)
This one’s a mouthful to pronounce, but it’s a cinch to use. At nearly $60 for two ounces of product, it better do something and do a lot of it. Thankfully, the jury’s in, and we think this exfoliator is well worth the money.
The scrub is fine and grainy and can help make your pores appear less noticeable with just one use. Keep in mind that, if your skin is likely to get red and irritated, you shouldn’t even bother. This product can feel like it is really scratching at the top layer of the skin, getting rid of those unwanted, dead skin cells.
Unlike a peeling solution, Dr. Brandt’s PoreDermabrasion contains both chemical and physical exfoliants, which puts your skin through a lot all at once. Though it’s effective and intense, we love the results of using this exfoliator.
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Deep Pore Cleansing Facial Treatment, $8 (shop here)
If you have dry skin, don’t just back away from this: run. The clay healing powder is meant to be mixed with raw apple cider vinegar (however, we would not recommend using ACV, as it can be too acidic) or water. It has a lot of uses, but it is most well-known for its use as a face mask.
This healing clay treatment works to draw out skin impurities, and reviewers claim the treatment makes zits much smoother and less noticeable in as little as 10 minutes! The downside is that it’s intense, and although people love it as a mask, it shouldn’t be used all over the face. Instead, using it as a spot treatment for problem areas is much more effective. Even with that, it shouldn’t be used more than twice a week.
Paula’s Choice RESIST Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum, $42 (shop here)
For those fighting the appearance of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles, you want something powerful. One of the most intense and useful products to combat aging is retinol, but it can be too intense for those with sensitive skin.
There are more gentle alternatives for those who don’t react well to retinol, but for those who do react well to it, this retinol serum has a high concentration that can improve signs of aging. The Paula’s Choice serum offers intense hydration and antioxidants that may lead to firmer-looking skin, softened lines, and a brighter, more youthful glow.