Navigating sensitive skin can be tricky: between evading irritating ingredients and dealing with unexpected flare-ups, choosing the right skincare to use may seem like an impossible task. Luckily, many of our tried-and-true K-beauty brands have developed sensitive skin-friendly formulations that kick inflammation to the curb, strengthen the skin barrier, and allow for sensitive skin to flourish and glow. We’ve compiled a list of the 12 best sensitive skin staples that you need in your collection as we move into warmer weather, highlighting key ingredients to opt for when tackling sensitivity. Get that complexion healthy and strong, and keep scrolling for your next obsessions.

No. 1

Etude House - Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Etude House

The Etude House Soon Jung range is a popular go-to for dodging aggravating ingredients and maintaining a soothed complexion. Reach for the Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser to cleanse dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin. It’s formulated with Panthenol and Madecassosside to hydrate and repair skin damage, and free of fragrance, parabens, and irritating ingredients. This cleanser creates a rich, low-pH lather that leaves skin feeling soft and supple post-wash.

No. 2

TONYMOLY - Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - TONYMOLY

You know when you’re scrolling through your Explore page and you come across those posts showcasing fresh, gleaming mochi, and you think, “Wish my skin could look like that”? The TONYMOLY Wonder Ceramide Mochi Toner can make that happen. Filled with Ceramides and Panthenol, this silky toner nourishes weak and stressed skin with a milky texture to make it look and feel healthier. It sinks into the skin to bring back bounce and glow, not unlike chewy rice cakes, and cuts out any heaviness or greasiness from your routine.

No. 3

PURITO - Oat-in Silky Toner

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - PURITO

Oats are one of the best ingredients for calming angry, inflamed skin, which is why the PURITO Oat-in Silky Toner is such a hit for sensitive skin. The brand touts it as a hybrid skincare solution that brings together the best of toner and cream, designed to alleviate dryness and irritation. It only includes 10 ingredients, 68.09% of which are Oat-derived, and uses an Ultra-fine Emulsion Technology to adhere to the skin and prevent rapid moisture evaporation.

No. 4

By Wishtrend - Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - By Wishtrend

Just because you have sensitive skin and can’t tolerate strong acids, it doesn’t mean you have to skip out on exfoliating completely. A gentler option for your exfoliating routine is the By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water, a low-irritation exfoliating toner containing 5% Mandelic Acid, Panthenol, Cica, and Beta-Glucan. These ingredients mildly clear away dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, following up with hydrating and calming care. It’s recommended for anyone struggling with acne, enlarged pores, and inflammation.

No. 5

I'm From - Mugwort Essence

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - I'm From

A staple in Korean skincare, Mugwort is an excellent ingredient to soothe sensitive skin; you’ll find it in its purest form in the I'm From Mugwort Essence. The essence highlights the best of this Hanbang ingredient, namely strong antioxidant protection, detoxifying properties, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Hydrating without being oily, it’s only splashy in texture, not attitude, and absorbs into the skin quickly to recharge moisture levels from within.

No. 6

ANUA - Heartleaf 80% Soothing Ampoule

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - ANUA

When you’re in need of relief, the ANUA Heartleaf 80% Soothing Ampoule will never let you down. Its ultra-soothing properties are thanks to 80% Heartleaf extract that deliver instant calming effects, whereas Sodium Hyaluronate gives a hydrating boost. It’s beloved for its non-sticky texture that the skin practically drinks up upon application, in addition to how well it works for all skin types.

No. 7

Pyunkang Yul - Calming Moisture Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Pyunkang Yul

It’s more than meets the eye when it comes to the humble Pyunkang Yul Calming Moisture Serum . Its ingredients list largely focuses on two functions, with Cica and Tea Tree for calming, and Peptide, Ceramide, and Hyaluronic Acid for hydrating. From irritated and tired, the complexion becomes stronger, revitalized, and soothed thanks to its select ingredients that are vegan-friendly, of low pH, and undergo rigorous verification to be deemed safe for the skin.

No. 8

TIA'M - Vita A Bakuchiol Firming Eye Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - TIA'M

If you’re concerned about fine lines but know your skin can’t take Retinol, Bakuchiol is the sensitive skin-friendly alternative to adopt. The TIA'M Vita A Bakuchiol Firming Eye Cream features a powerhouse blend of Vitamin A, Bakuchiol, and a 5-Peptide Complex to dramatically improve the undereye area. Not only does it smooth out wrinkling, but it also increases the skin’s firmness and elasticity, enhances natural radiance, and refreshes your overall appearance.

No. 9

SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Moisture Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SKIN1004

SKIN1004's Madagascar Centella ingredient shines once again in the Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Moisture Cream, where it’s coupled up with Hyaluronic Acid to form the ultimate Holy Grail moisturizer for dry, sensitive complexions. It boasts up to 100 hours of deep hydration, as the cream provides abundant moisture to all layers of the skin, and nurtures the skin barrier for quelling irritation and improving moisture retention.

No. 10

Haruharu WONDER - Black Rice Hyaluronic Cream Unscented

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Haruharu WONDER

Want to know the secrets behind all the Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Hyaluronic Cream Unscented’s 5-star reviews? It all boils down to its lineup of good-for-you ingredients: fermented Black Rice acts as an antioxidant and brightness booster, fermented Bamboo Shoot Bark extracts provide an anti-inflammatory effect, and Evening Primrose strengthens the skin barrier for a soothed complexion. Lightweight and dense in nutrients, it offers a plush, satin finish.

No. 11

make p:rem - UV Defense Me. Daily Sun Essence SPF50+ PA++++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - make p:rem

SPF can be irritating for those with particularly sensitive complexions, but the make p:rem UV Defense Me. Daily Sun Essence SPF50+ PA++++ has been clinically tested to be a solid choice for all skin types. This formula includes a 73% moisturizing essence to replenish the skin’s moisture levels as it defends against harmful UV rays. The gel-like texture doesn’t leave a white cast, which means although it’s suitable for all complexions, it won’t be detected on any.

No. 12

MARY&MAY - CICA Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ - 50ml

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - MARY&MAY

Ask anyone on the SV Team what someone with sensitive skin should use and Cica is definitely among the top 3, if not number 1. The MARY&MAY CICA Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ - 50ml is a feather-light sunscreen in our collection that feels as moisturizing and calming as a cream, leaving no stickiness nor white cast. It features 7 types of Cica that have been fermented with Yeast to reinvigorate tired skin alongside blocking UV rays. Betaine and Niacinamide are also added, the former for improving skin texture and the latter for brightening skin tone.

With our sensitive skin-approved staples, you can wave irritation and inflammation goodbye! Shop your chosen picks in our Anniversary Sale to enjoy major savings right now! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!