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So many skin types, so many sunscreen formulas. Which one is right for you? There's a sunscreen for every skin type, and then some—the options are nearly endless. That’s a good thing, because sun overexposure is one of the primary causes of skin aging, as well as the primary cause of a host of other issues, up to and including skin cancer. Sunscreen might be the most recommended topical skincare product of all time. It’s made to be worn by every face.Narrowing down the best sunscreen for your skin type simply requires understanding your skin’s goals and selecting the right ingredients and formulas to support them. So for now: A brief skin school. Then later: How to choose the best sunscreen for your skin type. Determining Your Skin TypeThere are three mutually-exclusive skin types—dry, oily, and combination—that are delineated more or less by how much sebum your skin produces on its own. If you see a specialist like a dermatologist or aesthetician frequently, it’s a good idea to ask them for feedback on your skin type, but there are two ways to get a good look at the state of your skin on your own: The Bare-Face Method. Wash your face with a mild cleanser, pat it dry, and wait for 30 minutes. Observe your skin. Then wait another 30 minutes and observe your skin again. If your skin still feels tight, even parched, you probably have dry skin. If your forehead and nose are shiny, you may have combination skin—if the cheeks are shiny too, oily skin is your best bet. The Blotting Paper Method. A good blotting sheet instantly (and gently) removes excess oil from skin—but it also works as a skin type test in a pinch. Simply pat one sheet over your cheeks, another over your nose and forehead, hold them to the light, and examine the results. If both sheets are translucent, oily; if neither, dry; and if cheeks came back dry but the other is soaked, you could be combo. In addition to being any of the above, your skin can also be sensitive, which is typified by frequent reactions to products and materials. And all skin is aging, and thus all skin eventually becomes described as mature skin, usually in a person’s 40s. These are broad categories for billions of unique individuals, but help describe your skin’s behavior on a basic level. (Here’s a more detailed guide to figuring out your skin type.)Understanding Different Kinds of SunscreenIn the United States, there are two main categories of sunscreens, which are distinguished by their main active ingredients: Physical sunscreens and chemical sunscreens.Physical sunscreens make use of finely milled minerals, like zinc and titanium dioxides. There are also chemical sunscreens, which utilize filters like octinoxate that absorb UV radiation. Chemical sunscreens are no less chemical than physical ones, or any topical, for that matter—water is, after all, technically a chemical—but are particularly prized for their lightweight feeling on skin.While there are key differences in how physical and chemical sunscreens work and feel on the skin, both are effective protectors, and are totally safe to use. But some skin types have their favorites. Physical sunscreens made with minerals tend to be preferred by sensitive faces as they’re less likely to cause stinging or clog pores. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, are sometimes actively avoided by dry skin types—the quick drydown can be great on oily or combination skin, but leaves dry skin feeling tight. It’s up to you, the customer, to parse the ingredient label for yourself. Don’t forget to check with experts like dermatologists and aestheticians or online resources like INCIDecoder for extra information. How to Choose a Sunscreen for Your Skin TypeOf course, many sunscreens—both physical and chemical—augment their active ingredients with other skincare ingredients that can provide extra benefits for common skin issues.For dry skin. It’s not too difficult to spot a good dry-skin moisturizer. Ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid that occur naturally in the skin (and help it perform its barrier function) are also commonly found in sunscreens suited for dry skin. A mineral formula with some thickness and hydrating skincare to it might be a good place to start.For oily skin. Some people with oily skin prefer chemical sunscreen for how they sink immediately into skin; others who lean acne-prone like mineral formulas that aren’t as likely to sit in the pores and cause breakouts. There are plenty of sunscreen formulas designed for those with oily skin, both mineral and chemical, that incorporate niacinamide, which has two-fold purifying and protecting power: It can help decongest pores and prevent buildup of oil and dirt.For mature skin. This skin type has an added impetus for sun protection, because the effects of aging are accelerated by sun overexposure. Those with mature skin type should choose a sunscreen made with reparative ingredients, like antioxidants, which can help fight cellular damage, including damage caused by photoaging.For sensitive skin. For sensitive skin SPF, avoid formulas that include added fragrances or dyes, both of which can be potentially irritating. Dry sensitive skin might respond well to hydrating ingredients that have skin soothing benefits. A non-comedogenic (read: won’t clog pores) formula, on the other hand, is great for oily sensitive skin that might be prone to blemishes. The Best Sunscreen for All Skin TypesAccelerations in skincare technology have also made it possible to create sunscreens that work well for all skin types. Often, these products are gentle, and made free of potential aggravators. They also tend to have a “perfecting” effect due to their ability to balance out skin—not too glowy, not too matte. One such formula, Tatcha’s Silk Sunscreen, is a hydrating mineral sunscreen that is as light as air. The SPF 50 formula also includes niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, along with just-like-skin silk extract—it blends in sheer, leaving any skin type feeling silky smooth. Another, the Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen, is an SPF 35 formula that provides a seamless blurring effect—along with antioxidants necessary to protect against cellular damage. It’s a brand best-seller for a reason: It’s beloved by all sorts of skin types, from oily and acne-prone to dry. (One reviewer called it “probably the best sunscreen I’ve ever used.”) Unlike the Silk Sunscreen, this one is mineral and chemical—the best of both worlds. Other Suncare TipsSunscreen is a great way to protect yourself from the sun, but it’s not the only way, and nor should it be. Another word for sunscreen is sunblock, though the word has fallen out of favor since 2011 when the FDA banned its use in product marketing. Topical formulas can’t “block” rays—some absorb them, others reflect them, and all of them require reapplication. Try to outfit your sun protection wardrobe with a few other options for guaranteed protection. Wear clothing with UPF, or ultraviolet protection factor. If anyone can make suncare look chic, it’s probably you. Don’t forget accessories. A wide-brimmed hat or gloves—or even a parasol—can take any look to a skin-healthier level. When the sun is high, remain inside. Barring the occasional picnic or beach day, try to stay inside between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV light is harshest. Stay shady. Beneath an umbrella is a great place to be. So is on the shadier side of the street. Sunglasses are essential. Though neither food nor drug, the FDA even recommends sunglasses for sun protection. Sunlight reflected from sand, surf, or snow can do serious harm to your eyes and the skin around them, but sunglasses with UV filters can help keep you safe. Check your windows. Especially if you spend stretches of time in front of them—if your desk is by a window, perhaps—consider adding UV-filtering blinds so your skin doesn’t bake. Good old-fashioned curtains work too. Get your skin checked. It could save your life, but it’s much more likely that it’ll offer you peace of mind. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends getting skin checks from your dermatologist once a year. Is yours scheduled yet?

Sunburns happen, but they are preventable with a handful of diligent tips. Here is everything you need to know about how to prevent a sunburn, from every sunscreen tip to the time of day to avoid direct sun. Read this article so you can be protected all year round. While mindfully soaking up the sun’s rays on a warm day is a delight, any sun exposure can be dangerous, particularly for extended amounts of time. Just one mild sunburn can damage skin cells, leading to accelerated aging and the potential risk of skin cancer, notes the CDC. But rather than hiding inside all year round, utilizing a handful of sunburn-prevention tips can help make protecting yourself from the sun manageable. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to prevent a sunburn.Sunburn 101A sunburn is an inflammatory reaction to ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage to the skin’s outermost layers, says the Skin Cancer Foundation. And there are two forms of UV rays — UVA and UVB. UVA rays are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles, sun spots, and loss of elasticity, notes John Hopkins Hospital. UVB rays cause a much greater risk of skin cancer (but UVA also increases the damaging effects of UVB), adds John Hopkins.While it’s tempting to think of exposure to these intense UV rays as just a summer occurrence, UVA and UVB ray damage can happen year-round, even on cloudy and cool days, adds the CDC. The Skin Cancer Foundation adds that up to 80 percent of UV rays can penetrate through clouds (meaning a cloudy day isn’t an excuse to not practice sunburn safety). This is important to remember because most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to UV light, notes the CDC.A good reason to stay vigilant about skin protection is that a sunburn hurts in more ways than one, says the Skin Cancer Foundation—first the short-term pain, redness, and discomfort, but also after the burn fades, potential lasting skin damage remains. “Sunburn accelerates skin aging and is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer,” notes the Skin Cancer Foundation.How to Prevent a SunburnWhile a sunburn is harmful—it’s preventable. And the best time to start is today. Here is everything you need to know about preventing a sunburn.Time of Day The best way to protect yourself against the damaging effects of the sun is to limit exposure and protect your skin. That’s especially helpful when the sun is at its most potent. In the continental United States, UV rays tend to be strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., says the CDC. It’s a good idea to seek shade and be extra cautious during these peak sun hours, adds John Hopkins. And remember that reflective surfaces, like water and snow, can increase the damaging rays’ potency.Check the UV IndexThe US National Weather Service and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have developed the UV Index, which explains how strong the UV light is in your area on any given day, on a scale from 1 to 11+. A higher number means a greater risk of exposure to UV rays and a higher chance of sunburn and skin damage.Sunscreen!When it comes to sun protection, nothing is more important than consistent sunscreen usage—but ensure you’re applying it correctly, storing it properly, and using enough.SPF NumberA broad-spectrum sunscreen of 30 SPF (sun protection factor) or higher is recommended by the Cleveland Clinic.TypeThe most important type of sunscreen is the formula you enjoy wearing—whether that be mineral, chemical, or a hybrid. But, the sunscreen must specify that it is broad spectrum, meaning it filters both UVA and UVB rays, notes the CDC.Amount One ounce is needed to cover the entire body, says the Clinic. Don’t forget frequently forgotten spots, says the FDA, like ears, back of the neck, hands, top of feet, and the hairline. Additionally, don’t forget to protect the lips, the delicate skin can easily burn and is often overlooked. There are SPF lip balms that make application easy.FrequencyThe Clinic adds that sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure and every two hours afterward. Additionally, apply more after swimming or sweating.ExpirationMost sunscreens should come with an expiration date (many are listed on the bottom of the packaging). Sunscreen without an expiration date has a shelf life of no more than three years, notes the CDC. And a sunscreen’s shelf life is shorter if it has been exposed to high temperatures.To make sure that your sunscreen is providing the sun protection promised in its labeling, the FDA strongly recommends that you do not use sunscreen products past their expiration date (if there is one), or that have no expiration date and were not purchased within the last three years. Expired sunscreens should be discarded because there is no assurance that they remain fully effective. StorageTo keep your sunscreen in good condition, the FDA recommends that sunscreen containers should not be exposed to direct sun. While outside on a hot day, protect sunscreen by wrapping it in towels or keeping them in the shade. Sunscreen can also be kept in coolers (how refreshing when re-applying, too!) while outside in the heat for long periods.Other Protective Options Sunscreen is a daily must—but it works even better when combined with other protective options, like a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective clothing, UV-protected sunglasses, and sun protection parasols or umbrellas.Get Skin Checks Examine your skin regularly, suggests John Hopkins. If you notice anything changing, growing, or bleeding on your skin, see a healthcare provider immediately.Best Sunscreens to Prevent a Sunburn At Tatcha, we take the task of protecting your skin from UVA and UVB rays very seriously. We’ve diligently tested and perfected our broad-spectrum SPFs to ensure they not only protect but also feel great on the skin. Choose between two SPF options.Best Mineral Sunscreen Looking for a silky, lightweight, invisible sunscreen with 50+ mineral coverage? Grab The Silk Sunscreen, a broad-spectrum formula that protects against UVA and UVB rays with 10 percent zinc oxide for a mineral, reef-safe filter. Not only does the Silk Sunscreen feel impossibly light, but the invisible protection also impressively minimizes pollutant and allergen disruption. And as the name suggests, the formula features silk proteins, which allows the silky liquid to provide a protective veil of hydration without weighing skin down. In addition to silk extracts, niacinamide visibly evens skin tone, reduces redness, and visibly firms the look of pores and hyaluronic acid helps to immediately boost skin’s natural moisture levels, softness, and skin tone. Best Mineral and Chemical Sunscreen If you prefer a creamy sunscreen with both mineral and chemical protection, our bestselling Silken Pore Perfecting SPF 35 Sunscreen is a superb option. The non-comedogenic and non-irritating formula features skin-loving ingredients that not only protect the skin, but also help tighten the appearance of pores, smooth skin texture, and calm visible irritation. The Silken Pore SPF also features our beloved silk extract for a silky feel, allowing the sunscreen to apply flawlessly. Also, the formula doubles as a primer for makeup, letting you save time and effort.

After a sunburn comes the healing process, which can be uncomfortable, as red, irritated skin begins to flake and peel off. Here’s how to see yourself back to healthy-looking skin with a little product assistance. Sunburns are a largely inevitable, and often painful, part of being human. When we expose our skin to the sun without adequate protection, we often develop patches of rough, red, warm-to-the-touch skin to show for it. Sunburns are the result of ultraviolet radiation causing an inflammatory reaction in the outer layers of the skin. Serious exposure can cause serious damage, ranging from scarring to premature aging to the development of skin cancers. But sun overexposure is also pretty common. The National Cancer Institute once estimated that about a third of adults receive at least one sunburn a year, with higher figures for kids—more than half. Most sunburns heal on their own, thanks to our body’s natural regenerative abilities. The process is also partly visible: A few days after skin is singed, you’ll notice patches of dead skin in the affected areas flaking off and giving way to fresh skin underneath. It’s amazing. It’s also, frankly, uncomfortable. Peeling skin can be itchy and tender, and just because the skin is gone doesn’t mean the sunburn has completely healed. It may still look red and feel raw well into the healing process. If you’ve arrived to the peeling stage, the good news is: It’s almost over. You may just need a little help getting through it. There are plenty of ways to support your skin’s healing with skincare products, but this guide focuses particularly on peeling, and how to minimize it. Here’s what to do—and what not to do—when you’re trying to prevent peeling from a sunburn. Don’t: Forget SPF. When should you apply sunscreen? According to The Skin Cancer Foundation: Every day. (And not just once—you should reapply every two hours that you spend in the sun.) If you’ve sustained a sunburn, applying sunscreen is even more important. Allowing your skin to heal means preventing it from taking on any additional damage. Exposing an unprotected sunburn to the sun is akin to pausing skin damage and then resuming it. Choose your favorite sunscreen formula, and don’t forget to reapply it every day, especially when you’re healing from a sunburn. But be forewarned… Do: Stay out of the sun. …just because you have the right protection on hand doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to hit the beach while your burn is still healing. Give your skin some time to heal by taking it easy in the shade, and don’t forget to layer with protective clothing—be it long sleeves or a wide-brimmed hat—when you absolutely have to go out. Experts say a sunburn’s healing process can range from anywhere between three and 10 days (the latter in more severe cases). Rest assured, you’ll be back at the beach in no time. Don’t: Let your skin dry out. In addition to redness and sensitivity, sunburns also often have a dry, flaky texture that is usually evident of dehydration. One of the ways the sun’s rays can damage the skin is by depleting its water content, according to dermatologists. It’s imperative to make sure your skin is getting more than enough water to counteract this process, which may also help minimize peeling time. This is why the American Academy of Dermatologists recommends cool baths and showers, which can have calming effects on uncomfortable sunburns. They also recommend allowing water to sit on your skin post-bathing. This can help ease some of the symptoms of dryness, and it’ll also help with the next step in the process of preventing peeling from a sunburn: Moisturizing. Do: Moisturize with calming skincare. Another way you can make sure your skin stays hydrated after a sunburn is to use a topical product that can help it seal and retain moisture. In other words: Use a moisturizer. If you’ve ever gotten a sunburn and used an aloe vera-based product to help soothe it, you know the power of a good moisturizer. Aloe vera is one of many natural botanical ingredients that bind water to the skin, which is why it's often recommended as an after-sun lotion. Different ingredients can have different palliative effects on sunburn. It’s a good idea to look into products that not only effectively moisturize the skin but also impart skin-soothing benefits. Tatcha’s Indigo Soothing Body Butter is one such skincare formula. Centuries ago, during Japan’s Edo period, it’s said that samurais wore a layer of indigo-dyed cotton beneath their armor to help heal injuries—a testament to its healing legacy. Infused into a rich lotion with other skin-savers like squalene and colloidal oatmeal, the Soothing Body Butter offers impressive relief anywhere its applied. And here’s a pro tip, care of Real Simple: Your moisturizer is likely to work better if you apply it on wet skin. Don’t: Pick with your fingers. If a sunburn is peeling, and the peeling skin is already dead, surely you’re helping the process along by picking off the dead skin yourself… right? Dermatologists say: Wrong. In fact, picking at a sunburn with your fingers can do much more harm than good, and could result in scarring or blistering. Skin will flake off when it’s ready to do so, and not a moment before. You can risk damaging the new, healthy skin growing beneath the burn, as well as the healthy skin surrounding the sunburn. It’s a golden rule not to pick at your skin in general, but the rule takes on new urgency when it comes to peeling from sun damage. Do: Gently exfoliate. Overall, the most important thing to do for a sunburn is actually something you shouldn’t do; Further irritate the skin. Those who deal with sensitivity know that certain ingredients or products can cause their skin more harm than good. Think of sunburned skin as some of the most sensitive skin of all: Skin that is actively in the process of healing itself. It’s important to let that process happen at its own pace. But just like sensitive skin types seek out certain products that can improve their skin quality, certain products, like moisturizers, can help keep things calm without interrupting the process. Towards the end of the sunburn healing process, as skin begins to peel off, it may even be beneficial to use a gentle exfoliant that can safely remove dead, flaky skin. It’s wise to avoid strong chemical exfoliants or harsh scrubs. Look for something like Tatcha’s Calming Rice Polish, which employs non-abrasive ingredients like finely-milled rice bran to softly resurface even irritated skin. It also employs enzymes that help to erode the bonds between dead skin cells and healthy ones—as well as soothing indigo extract. It’s formulated for sensitive skin and easy exfoliation. Perhaps the most important ingredient in healing a sunburn and preventing peeling is patience. Time heals all burns. But when the symptoms of sun are causing you discomfort, a little extra care can go a long way.

Two of our most beloved formulas—the Indigo Calming Cream and the Indigo Overnight Repair—are often compared interchangeably. But they differ in a few, notable ways. Read on to discover which formula is right for your skin. In Japan, skin is considered a conduit to the world: It perceives temperature, touch, light, and even time. It then sends those messages to the brain to distinguish how we feel and think. Our brain and skin work in tandem, which helps to synchronize our intelligent facial skin. But, this symbiotic relationship can often lead to trouble when chemical and hormonal interactions come to play, like adrenaline, inflammation, and cortisol. Pair that with external stressors like pollution, sun radiation, and poor nutrition and you might have a damaged skin barrier.The skin barrier’s primary job is to keep moisture in and harmful substances out (including allergens, irritants, and pathogens). When it’s damaged, skin is out of sync, showing signs of dryness, redness, sensitivity, itchiness, flakiness, dullness, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. This is where Tatcha comes into play. The Tatcha Institute has been studying and perfecting skin barrier repair for nearly a decade. Keep reading to see two products (and what makes them different) that calm and visibly relieve damaged skin.Stressed Skin SolutionsIrritated and stressed skin can occur frustratingly easily. Thankfully there are a handful of Tatcha products that are designed to strengthen skin just as quickly. Two of our most beloved products for this very task are the Indigo Calming Cream and the Indigo Overnight Repair, but which is right for you? Read on as we uncover Tatcha Indigo Cream vs. Overnight Repair.Indigo Calming CreamTransform stressed skin to strengthened skin with the newly updated Indigo Calming Cream. Our beloved fragrance-free cream has been proven to calm visible irritation and relieve itchy skin, thanks to Japanese indigo and colloidal oatmeal (an FDA-designated skin protectant). What sets this innovative cream apart from others (and even the Indigo Overnight Repair) is the addition of colloidal oatmeal, which has helped earn it the coveted National Eczema Association seal of approval for its ability to soothe irritated, eczema-prone skin on the face and beyond. Whether as a face cream or spot treatment, The Indigo Calming Cream offers a luxurious way to heal visibly stressed or eczema-prone skin for a calmer, stronger skin barrier.100 percent of panelists in a clinical study saw an improvement in softness and suppleness immediately, an improvement in the appearance of the skin barrier after one week, and an improvement in visible redness and evenness of skin tone after four weeks. The emotional benefits of using the new Indigo Calming Cream are worth noting, too. In a clinical study self-assessment questionnaire, 86 percent of panelists noted that the product left them feeling like their skin was healthier after just one week.Benefits: Soothes dry and irritated skin Relieves redness and itchiness Long-lasting hydration Texture: Velvety rich creamUse: Morning and nightIngredients: Japanese indigo Colloidal oatmeal Hadasei-3 Indigo Overnight RepairTatcha’s award-winning Indigo Overnight Repair is a fragrance-free, soothing serum-in-moisturizer treatment. The formula, which includes Japanese indigo, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, provides an immediate improvement in moisture, smoothness, and radiance. What truly sets the Overnight Repair apart from other treatments is the formula’s ability to balance the microbiome, helping to cultivate good bacteria so skin performs at its optimal, symbiotic level. The cushiony treatment is ideal for evening use, where the luxurious application can be used as an act of mindfulness and sensorial skincare moment, helping to bring comfort and peace of mind while unwinding at the end of the day. In clinical studies, 100 percent of users saw an improvement in their skin barrier strength within four weeks.Benefits: Visibly calms irritation and redness Strengthens skin barrier Balances skin’s microbiome Texture: A cushiony creamUse:Night onlyIngredients: Japanese indigo Ceramides Hyaluronic acid Mondo grass root Suggested Skin-Soothing RitualWhile it’s tempting to pit Tatcha Indigo Cream vs. Overnight Repair—the two products truly work best together. Here’s our suggested daily ritual that’s proven to soothe, calm, and visibly repair skin.Morning Ritual Purify with The Indigo Cleansing Balm Polish with The Rice Polish Plump with The Essence Nourish with The Indigo Calming Cream Evening Ritual Purify with The Indigo Cleansing Balm Polish with The Rice Polish Plump with The Essence Nourish with The Indigo Overnight Repair

What are essential oils? Is fragrance bad for our skin? And what is the best fragrance-free skincare? When it comes to scents, a little skin-sensibility goes a long way. Fragrance is easily one of the beauty industry’s greatest pleasures—but is also a topic of some debate. On one hand, you have perfumes that artfully assemble different notes into symphonies of scent that evoke far flung beaches or time periods in the distant past; you have shampoos and conditioners practically bursting with the aroma of fresh fruit.Skincare and makeup products are also commonly made with added fragrance—and the sensory experience they offer are often a reason why a customer will choose one product over another—but their use in these formulas can spell trouble for some, especially those with sensitive skin. At one point in recent history, the American Academy of Dermatology declared fragrance allergy to be the leading cause of contact dermatitis in the US from product exposure. Overall, fragrance ranks in the top 5 causes of contact dermatitis, a list that includes known skin irritants like poison ivy.That doesn’t mean your skin will automatically go red and bumpy if you apply a fragranced product to it—many people use fragranced products multiple times daily without incident. But if your skin is reactive, and you find yourself often battling breakouts, a little caution and ingredient know-how can help you make the best choices for your skin when it comes to fragrance. Know Your FragrancesThere are a few different types of fragrance that you are likely to encounter in product formulations. They all perform the same function—imparting a bit of scent to a moisturizer, or foundation, or blush—but they are far from the same. They can largely be defined in three categories: Essential oils, natural fragrance, and synthetic fragrance.Essential oils. You’re likely familiar with essential oils, “complex mixtures of terpenes and other aromatic or aliphatic compounds” that are created by aromatic plants as by-products of other metabolic processes, according to a 2021 report defining their use in cosmetics. And there are about 300 essential oils, derived from 3000 plant species, on the current fragrance market. Essential oils are the most concentrated forms of natural fragrance.Natural fragrances. Natural fragrance is derived from plants, and may include essential oils, but probably include a bunch of other things, too. The International Fragrance Association has strict guidelines for fragrances that are marketed as natural. They have to be composed of ingredients recognized by the IFA’s own standardization, and these ingredients must be “physically obtained from plants using distillation, expression and extraction.” A natural fragrance might include a little essential oil along with isolates and resins from other natural sources, but rest assured that it’s all plant-derived.Synthetic fragrances. Synthetic fragrances might have both the simplest and most complex definition of all three categories. A synthetic fragrance utilizes one or more ingredients made in a lab. It could be composed mostly of plant derivatives, but if at least one synthetic compound or ingredient is present, it’s a synthetic fragrance. These fragrances are popular for their customizability as well as for their ease of manufacturing and wide availability. Fragrance-Free, Not Unscented The terms “fragrance-free” and “unscented” seem like they’d mean the same thing. But each term is related to a specific formulation—and one that doesn’t always indicate a lack of added perfume.Fragrance-free products do not include fragrance of any kind. Because some consumers cannot or prefer not to use fragrance, fragrance-free formulas offer an alternative.By contrast, unscented products do not have a discernible scent, but may use fragrance ingredients to mask an existing scent. These kinds of formulations can be indistinguishable from fragrance-free products at first sniff, but their ingredient lists tell different stories.It’s important to label the difference, so the Environmental Protection Agency offers certification for products that are fragrance-free. If you’re someone who has reactive, sensitive skin, it could be a good idea to seek out fragrance-free formulas that are less prone to irritate skin. Is Fragrance Really That Bad?It’s worth saying over and over again: Fragrance is not bad for you. Just because fragrance can cause contact dermatitis doesn’t mean you should avoid it completely in every area of your life. But it’s important to be cautious when you see fragrance on a skincare ingredient label. Unlike other ingredients, the Food and Drug Administration allows for companies to simply list “Fragrance” or “Parfum” instead of enumerating the specific ingredient contents of their fragrances. This is ostensibly to protect companies from having to spill their precious perfume recipes, which are regarded as trade secrets. But it can make it difficult to know what exactly is in that product you’re using.If you have sensitive skin, it’s wise to be wary of the products you choose, and double check with your dermatologist if you’re unsure. If a favorite product has an opaque “Fragrance” on its ingredient label, it might be worth your time to send a note to their customer service and see if they’ll disclose the ingredients, or even part of them, so you can shop smarter.The Best Fragrance-Free Skincare ProductsAs fragrance-free skincare has gained in popularity, there are many options on the market for products without added fragrance. A wonder wash. What could be better than a two-in-one cleanser and exfoliator that is made from superplants and is supremely gentle on skin? One that does all of that, with no added fragrance. Such is Tatcha’s The Rice Polish, a best-seller with a cult following. It resurfaces skin with rice bran and papaya enzymes while also shoring up the skin’s natural barrier with moisture and radiance. If skin tends toward dryness or sensitivity, a balm like the Indigo Cleansing Balm can melt away makeup and cleanse the skin beneath in a single step.An excellent essence. Essences can be hugely beneficial for skin. They’re applied after cleansing, but before moisturizing, with the aim of hydrating skin. Tatcha’s Essence is made without fragrance, sulfate detergents, and other common irritants; instead, it features Hadasei-3, Tatcha’s proprietary blend of Japanese botanicals that work in tandem to moisturize skin against water loss. Skin is primed, plumped, petal-soft, and ready for the next step in your routine.A dream cream. Even the most sensitive skinned among us will love the Indigo Calming Cream, a richly textured cream shown to soothe skin. It’s made with anti-inflammatory colloidal oatmeal as well as Japanese indigo extract with tryptanthrin and indirubin, plant compounds proven to demonstrate skin-calming properties. And, of course: It’s totally fragrance-free.A super sunscreen. The Silk Sunscreen is beloved for many reasons—it’s a powerful SPF 50 that feels weightless on skin, and it also primes skin beautifully for makeup—but chief among them might be its total lack of fragrance, which makes it a great alternative to other Japanese sunscreens, many of which contain a hint of scent. It’s not always easy to sleuth out which products contain fragrance and which don’t, especially when “unscented” formulas are thrown into the mix. But if you do your homework, it’ll pay off, with reliably healthy-looking skin.

When redness shows up, it can be tough to calm things down. Choosing the right moisturizer or face cream can help keep things clear—if you know what ingredients to look for. When the blood vessels that lay beneath the skin widen or break, it can cause redness to bloom across cheeks in patches and spots. This kind of redness happens to everyone, and can be caused by anything from spicy noodles to garden variety embarrassment. And it’s perfectly human to blush: A little color looks good on all of us.But when facial redness is chronic, it may be a sign of rosacea, an inflammatory condition that affects 14 million Americans, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The word rosacea comes from the Latin rosaceus, a turn of the century term for something rose-colored; the word resurged in the 2000s as interest in skincare bloomed (and nomenclature for its various issues proliferated). But the issue has affected people for centuries. An article in the European Journal of Dermatology identified one of the first doctors to identify the skin condition; in the 14th century, a French surgeon observed a case of "goutterose", which expressed itself in red patches “particularly on the nose and cheeks.”Today, rosacea looks much the same as it did back then, but our understanding of it is more than skin deep. As the Mayo Clinic’s definition of rosacea explains, the exact causes aren’t known, but “could be due to an overactive immune system, heredity, environmental factors or a combination of these.” Even longer is the list of potential aggravators, which range from sun to stress to spice to skincare. Those with rosacea or persistent redness may even be wary of certain skincare products, for fear that they’ll bring out their blood vessels.It’s true that, when caring for rosacea and redness, a certain amount of caution is well-advised. But certain skincare products and ingredients can actually help to soothe and calm skin, including the best moisturizer for rosacea. Why is my skin so red?Like other inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema, experts aren’t exactly sure what causes rosacea, but various studies have revealed patterns about who is and isn’t affected. For example; women are 3 to 4 times more likely than men to develop rosacea, but men who are affected often suffer worse symptoms. Rosacea also tends to run in families.There are a few stages of a rosacea flare-up. First, in the vascular stage, blood vessels expand and break. Skin flushes, the result may appear like a facial rash. This redness might also be accompanied by small bumps or pimples in the inflammatory stage. Men who experience rosacea may also experience rhinophyma, in which the skin on the nose thickens and oil glands enlarge, according to John Hopkins Medicine’s classification of rosacea. Rosacea can even spread to the eyes and cause itching, watering, and, of course, redness.If any of these symptoms sound typical of your skin, it’s possible you have rosacea, or redness-prone skin. A visit to your dermatologist can help you rule out other possibilities, and will help you on your way to starting a treatment plan. Can skincare products help redness?Skincare products can be enormously helpful for redness and rosacea.The American Academy of Dermatology Association has published guidelines for caring for red skin and rosacea that emphasize a gentle approach. Finding a mild cleanser, applying it using your fingertips, rinsing with cool or lukewarm water, and then drying your skin with a soft, clean cloth is the best way to wash rosacea or redness-prone skin. You can skip the astringent toners or abrasive towels.Another way to be gentle to your skin is by moisturizing regularly. The term “moisturizer” describes a wide category of products that work by helping skin retain water, which is necessary for skin’s health. Even a skincare routine consisting of just a mild cleanser, a hydrating moisturizer, and a sunscreen is enough to give your skin what it needs—and protect it from what it doesn’t.But like many other factors, some skincare formulations could cause reactions. What works for you depends on your unique skin type. Stick to products and ingredients that are tried-and-true—and if you decide to try something new, don’t forget to patch test it first. Which skincare ingredients help rosacea and redness?As rosacea has emerged as a breakout skincare topic in the past few decades, many new skincare technologies have been developed with the aim of soothing and calming skin—from lasers to topical applications. And yet, much like rosacea itself, many of the ingredients used to help reduce redness have long histories.Ceramides. Of course ceramides are good for skin—up to 50% of our epidermis is made up of these fat cells. There, they help our skin retain water and perform its barrier function, keeping good stuff in and bad stuff out. Added into skincare formulations, they have been shown to help soothe visible irritation and prevent dehydration.Colloidal oatmeal. The calming oatmeal variant has been used for centuries to relieve itch and irritation—the Egyptians used to pour oats into their baths to relieve inflamed skin. Today, many formulas with colloidal oatmeal are recommended for issues like eczema and rosacea.Green tea. The extract from green tea is rich in polyphenols, which are known to have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.Japanese indigo extract. A supremely soothing superplant. Indigo has a more famous reputation for the beautiful dye it produces, but its medicinal benefits are well-recorded throughout history. In Japan, indigo was also used for traditional firefighter uniforms to protect against burns, and presented to newborns in the form of an indigo-dyed blanket—a testament to its protective qualities. (Did you know that indigo is green at first, until it reacts with oxygen to give it its distinctive deep blue?)Sea fennel extract. Long renowned for its culinary applications, sea fennel also works wonders on skin. The marine botanical impressively toes the line between zero inflammation and big, retinol-like results, making it a great choice ingredient for those with redness or rosacea.Silk. There is simply no fabric that is softer on skin than silk. Liquid silk proteins find their way into many formulas for their skin nourishing benefits, but pure silk fabric is also a source of particular inspiration for Tatcha, as seen in our Kinu Pure Silk Polishing Face Cloth. If you’re looking for an easy way to make your routine more gentle, consider switching to silk wash cloths and pillowcases. What is the best moisturizer for rosacea and redness?Hydration is essential for our skin’s health: Water is the one of the most important fuels that keeps our skin barrier in proper form. And the best way to hydrate your skin is by using a moisturizer.Most skincare users tend to match their moisturizer to their skin type. Oily skin types sometimes go for powerful gel formulas that help clear away excess sebum, whereas dry skin types might slather on a thick cream that gives them an extra boost of hydration. For those dealing with rosacea or redness, the goal is to keep things calm and under control; the easiest way to that goal is to choose a moisturizer fortified with ingredients proven to help redness.One such moisturizer is Tatcha’s Indigo Overnight Repair, which features skin-soothing Japanese indigo along with ceramides. The unique product composition also helps to regulate the skin’s microbiome (studies show a link between a disrupted microbiome and inflammation) and visibly calms skin irritation—after just one night, about 90% of participants saw improvements in skin redness, texture, and tone.* The serum-in-cream is also the finale in Tatcha’s best-selling Soothing and Calming Skin Ritual, a full four-step redness routine in one kit. What about my eczema? Redness happens to be a common symptom of inflammatory eczema. Eczema’s other signs vary to include dryness, itchiness, bumps, and even changes in texture. Luckily, many ingredients that soothe redness and rosacea are also known to help with eczema.The National Eczema Association makes finding these moisturizers a little easier by assigning seals of approval to formulas that meet calming criteria. That seal can be found on Tatcha’s Indigo Calming Cream, formulated with indigo and colloidal oatmeal. It soothes redness with long-lasting hydration, but it also works overtime, as both a daily moisturizer and a soothing skin treatment. Apply it to the face, neck, or anywhere irritated skin appears. Rosacea and redness can also be a source of stress, which happens to be a common trigger for rosacea and redness. It can seem like a never-ending cycle. But a consistent skincare routine can help, and provides a daily opportunity to reflect on your progress and skin’s goals. The process will definitely soothe your skin; it may soothe your mind, too. *Based on a 4-week clinical study of 41 participants.

One of the most essential skincare steps can be tricky for those dealing with sensitive skin and its attendant issues, from acne to eczema. Choose your cleanse wisely. Sensitive skin can express itself in a variety of different ways, from redness to dryness to patches of scaliness. Sensitive skincare is much less variable. But the needs of skin are the same across all skin types. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons defines a proper skincare routine as including cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen among its list of basic skincare steps — a simple framework upon which anyone can build an effective skincare routine.Step one: A good wash. This first part of your skincare routine sets the stage for the following steps. A face wash should remove makeup, dirt, and other buildup as gently as possible, so that treatments like serums or creams can reach the dermis. Nowadays, many cleansers are formulated to do more than simply cleanse with the addition of hydrating or exfoliating or brightening ingredients. New technologies are introduced constantly, and adopted into the market quickly.Just as sensitive skin needs to be washed, sensitive faces need to be careful about the kinds of face washes they use. Sensitive skin is defined by its tendency to react to materials and substances that don’t usually cause reactions. If you have sensitive skin, the odds are that you pay close attention to the things your skin comes into contact with, and your cleanser is probably no exception. But there are plenty of formulas that are designed to fit your sensitive skin, and whatever expressions come with it.How do I wash my sensitive skin?The most basic rule of sensitive skincare could be described in one word: Caution! If it seems like you’re using too much pressure, or product, or stinging, or heat, then chances are it is. The American Academy of Dermatology warns against scrubbing the skin — instead, try massaging skin gently with your fingertips. Try not to overwash, or cleanse too frequently, either. Most people wash their face twice each day, most importantly before bed.Those with sensitive skin usually have a good idea of what potential irritants don’t work for them, and choose products accordingly. For some, it’s fragrance; for others, it’s acids; for everybody, it’s a little different. Patch test products, pay attention to your skin’s reactions, and always talk to your dermatologist about the products you use. The best face wash for sensitive, acne-prone skinWhen dealing with acne, it’s tempting to want powerful cleansers that make skin squeaky clean, or utilize strong exfoliants. Add sensitivity to the mix, and these sorts of cleansers can spell disaster. Or worse: Reaction.But the instinct isn’t wrong. Acne is often caused by bacteria from leftover makeup or unwashed pollutants, so the need for a good—and gentle—cleanse is paramount with this unique skin type. Our skincare was inspired by Kyoto’s geisha, who would perform beneath layers of makeup and took meticulous care of their skin. According to some of Japan’s earliest beauty-related texts, geisha used tsubaki, or oil from the camellia flower, to remove their makeup while also respecting their soft, silk-like skin. That ritual inspired the Camellia Cleansing Oil, which melts makeup, cleanses skin, and imparts skincare ingredients in a single step. Oils may seem counterintuitive on acneic skin, which often exhibits an oily texture, but dermatologists love them for how easy they are on skin’s acid mantle. The best face wash for sensitive skin and rosacea From a dermatologist’s perspective, there are different types of rosacea, from vascular rosacea to ocular rosacea. But most people are familiar with how rosacea generally appears: As a red, inflamed rash. Unlike acne or eczema, which often arrive with texture symptoms—in bumps or scaly patches—rosacea looks much less serious at first. Left untreated, however, it could cause bumps or skin-thickening.Rosacea is caused by inflammation beneath the skin. Like eczema, another skin issue caused by an inflammatory response, experts aren’t sure exactly what causes rosacea, but according to the Mayo Clinic, the reaction “could be due to an overactive immune system, heredity, environmental factors or a combination of these.” Dermatologists advise twice-daily cleansing and moisturization, and patch testing all products. They also recommend looking into rosacea-friendly skincare ingredients, and avoiding potential irritants. At Tatcha, we make frequent use of Japanese indigo extract for its powerful palliative benefits. In Japan, the plant is prized for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. Indigo’s active ingredients lend themselves to soothing skin—Tryptanthrin is a nitrogen-rich compound that helps flush away toxins and irritants, and Indirubin supports the skin’s natural barrier function. The ingredient is included in many of our soothing formulas, like the Calming Rice Polish, which infuses Japanese botanicals—like indigo, Okinawan red algae, green tea, and more—to nourish and maintain skin’s health, and keep reactions at bay. The best face wash for sensitive skin and eczemaEczema, like rosacea, is caused by inflammation—but it looks a little different. In addition to redness, eczematous skin often becomes dry, itchy, and bumpy, at least according to the Cleveland Clinic. The roots of eczema aren’t clear, but it’s a common issue affecting just over 10% of Americans. The National Eczema Association often issues seals of recommendations to products that have proven to be effective on eczematous skin. (The Indigo Cream has earned this designation for its ability to soothe skin—in ancient Japan, samurais wore inner layers of indigo-dyed cotton beneath their armor to help speed their healing, and the dye was also lent to the uniforms of firefighters to help protect against burns.) Some other ingredients that are great for eczema include colloidal oatmeal, algae, and squalane, and many of these are commonly found in face wash formulas. The Indigo Cleansing Balm was formulated with sensitive skin top of mind. It’s crafted with Japanese indigo to visibly calm as it cleanses, replenishing the skin's moisture barrier for smooth, soothed skin. It melts makeup with ease—and keeps even reactive skin calm in the process.The most important way to care for eczema, rosacea, acne, or sensitive skin in general is to go easy. Though it’s necessary to properly wash skin, harsh active ingredients or abrasive applications can do more harm than good. If you treat sensitive skin with tender care, glow will certainly follow.

Sensitive skin can be a source of frustration, from irritating ingredients to rageful reactions, but it’s easy to overcome if you have the right tools and know the correct techniques. Sensitivity in skin is defined by reactions to other substances, like skincare products or environmental aggressors, as opposed to its natural state. This can be vexing for skincare lovers who want to try different products or incorporate new steps into their routine. Meanwhile, their skin might overreact to even slight changes, or ingredients billed as non-irritating.Some people are born with sensitive skin, and might not realize it until they get older and begin to expose their skin to different stimuli. Others may develop sensitive skin, or their skin may sensitize, over time and exposure to different irritants or allergens. But no matter what type it may be, your skin requires proper care, which can be a source of stress for the sensitive skinned among us. How do you navigate necessary skincare if your skin is wary of products at large?The key to cracking sensitive skin is to learn what your skin needs, and the products and ingredients that can help it keep calm under pressure. But the best skincare for sensitive skin starts with education. Here’s what you need to know.Before we start: What is sensitive skin? Sensitive skin is reactive skin. Dermatologists often define sensitive skin simply as skin that is prone to more reactions than other skin types. These kinds of reactions express themselves in various ways, from dryness to redness to full-blown rashes.If these sound like common issues, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have sensitive skin. The catalyst for these sorts of reactions are almost always outside stimuli, a broad category that includes everything from skincare products to the sun and wind outside your front door. If skin seems irritated on its own, it could be a sign of sensitive skin, but also may point to another skin type, or an issue like eczema.Instead, if you notice your skin frequently reacting to certain products or ingredients, sensitive skin could be a likelier reason. Step 1: Learn about your skin. The skin is a magnificent organ, with many highly complex structures and functions included therein. Short of going to medical school, it can be difficult to wrap one’s head around skin and its needs. It’s much easier to study your own skin, and there are a few ways to do that.Take notes. If you think you have sensitive skin, it could be beneficial to take a practical approach to documenting your skin habits. Make like a detective and solve it like a mystery: What ingredients did I put on my face today, and how did my skin react? What was the weather or climate like? Over time, you should be able to observe patterns in your skin reactions, and identify certain irritants.Talk to an expert. It’s usually not too difficult to recognize if your skin is sensitive—Are you very cautious about trying new products? Does your skin break out with seemingly no effort at all?—but you should always ask your dermatologist or primary care physician for their opinion.Research ingredients. There are plenty of skincare ingredients that are excellent on sensitive faces—and more that are being discovered and tested every day. For now, it’s easy to find formulas that are designed in accord with sensitive skin types, and are easier on faces than other, more abrasive skincare products. Step 2. Cleanse your skin gently.Dermatologists advise washing one’s face twice daily. But how does that figure square with those whose faces fear abrasive skincare?A proper cleanse is an important part of your skincare routine, no matter your skin type. But some washes are better (read: less harsh) than others. The ingredients list is the first place to look for trouble. Is your face wash made with potentially irritating ingredients? For example, sulfates, which help cleansers remove dirt and impurities more effectively from skin and hair, can also dry out skin and potentially cause irritation, according to dermatologists. Sulfates aren’t bad for you, but they may not agree with reactive skin.Tatcha’s Indigo Cleansing Balm is a gentle cleanse epitomized. It's plush at first lather, then emulsifies into a silky oil that melts away makeup, dirt, and the rest of the day. But the main attraction comes from Japanese indigo extract, a botanical prized for centuries for its anti-inflammatory benefits. (Did you know that samurai used to wear garments of indigo for their wound-healing properties?) Another common ingredient that is known to be largely beneficial but can have adverse effects on sensitive faces: Exfoliating acids, like salicylic or glycolic acids. These ingredients are proven to help exfoliate the skin, by dissolving bonds between healthy skin cells and dead ones. Many exfoliants are useful and even necessary for exfoliating sensitive skin, but it’s advised to be wary of strong acids or scrubs, and run them by your dermatologist before you adopt them into your routine. Gentle acids, like lactic acid, or finely-milled scrubs, like Tatcha’s Calming Rice Polish, come recommended for reactive skin. Step 3. Use calming products. After cleansers come essences, serums, and moisturizers. Sensitive skin types are often careful not to overload their faces with substances that can potentially irritate, but they’ll be happy to know that many of these products include steps that can help soothe sensitive skin.Think about your skincare order of operations as beginning with a proper cleanse, and then building up products by their textures, from most watery to most creamy or oily. Essences, lightweight hydrating formulas that follow washes but precede serums and moisturizers, can be hugely helpful with hydration—Tatcha’s Essence, for one, is made with a trio of Japanese superfoods that are fermented to produce amino acids (that support the skin barrier) and AHAs like lactic acid (that gently exfoliate). A daily cream can also help keep things calm, if that cream is made with soothing ingredients. Colloidal oatmeal is a popular choice for sensitive skin-inclined formulas—it helps skin rehydrate, and has demonstrated powerful anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s paired with Japanese indigo and other nourishing superplants in the Indigo Calming Cream, formulated to provide soothing relief of redness and itchiness with long-lasting hydration. (It’s also earned a coveted seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association.) Moisturizing is also an important step in shoring up your skin’s barrier function. Many experts believe that skin becomes more reactive as its lipid barrier weakens. With a weak barrier, skin can’t hold on to water as well, which leads to dryness, which can exacerbate acne or inflammation. An overnight treatment like the Indigo Overnight Repair, with its two-in-one serum-in-cream texture, can provide necessary nourishment to any skin type, even those prone to reactions. Step 4. Always wear sunscreen. Always! It’s one of the most important steps in your skincare routine. And this urgency only increases if you find your skin to be sensitive: Those with sensitive skin are at greater risk for environmental aggressors like ultraviolet light damage, according to some dermatologists.But there are many, many sunscreens out there, and some do have the potential to irritate. Experts warn against the popular two-in-one moisturizer-with-SPF formulas by and large for sensitive skin—packing all of those ingredients into one formula might have a greater potential for irritation. And while chemical sunscreens can be very effective for many skin types, some experts prefer mineral sunscreens, made with zinc or titanium dioxide, for reactive skin. (Think of it this way: UV rays simply bounce off mineral filters, but with chemical filters, they react and are made inert. This reaction can spell trouble for sensitive skin types, but always talk to a doctor when choosing an SPF.) Some prefer the texture of chemical SPFs to physical ones, which can be chalky and heavy, which is why Tatcha created the Silk Sunscreen, which is as smooth as it sounds: A feathery, floaty formula, fortified with a zinc filter and skin-soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and silk extract. Maybe the best thing for sensitive skin isn’t nothing, after all. It’s proper care and protection, and a little peace of mind.