11 Best Serums for Sensitive Skin to Reduce Redness and Calm Skin

Whether you’re dealing with a reactive complexion or weather-triggered flare-ups, the best serums for sensitive skin should never be overlooked. No matter which skin concerns you’re navigating, soothing and balancing formulas are essential for long-term skin barrier health—especially if your established routine is already heavy on the actives.

“Over-exfoliating when the skin barrier is already stressed can lead to increased sensitivity, inflammation, and dryness,” board-certified physicians assistant Paula Brezavscek, PA-C, tells Vogue. This is especially true during cold weather months, when humidity in the air is low, and cranking the heat at home is high.

In This Story

• What are calming serums?
• What to Look for in a Serum for Sensitive Skin
• Who should use a calming serum?
• How to Apply a Calming Serum
• Can calming serums help reduce skin redness?
• How We Tested
• Meet the Experts

Brezavscek points barrier-supportive formulas, such as fatty acids, peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are key to soothe skin and restore its lipid balance. While this edit is especially valuable for those focused on barrier repair and/or managing sensitivity, even the most resilient complexions can benefit from keeping a calming serum on hand—just in case irritation strikes.

Ahead, our edit of the best serums for sensitive skin, plus everything you need to know to choose the right one for you.

Best for Skin Discoloration: SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel

• Why We Love It: “What sets this product apart, in my opinion, is its ability to effectively soothe and correct skin discoloration and redness associated with various skin conditions, making it a versatile choice for post-procedure care and daily use in sensitive skin regimens,” double-board-certified surgeon Lauren Moy, MD, tells Vogue. With its blend of hyaluronic acid, cucumber, thyme, and other botanical ingredients, board-certified dermatologist, Azadeh Shirazi, MD, cites its soothing properties—noting it as an excellent hydrator too. This pick is also a key part of actor Kristin Bell’s anti-redness skin-care routine.
• Key Ingredients: Thyme, olive, cucumber, eucalyptus leaf, hyaluronic acid
• Texture: Gel-serum
• Fragrance: Yes
• More To Know: Free from sulfates, parabens, oil, and phthalates.
• Size: 1 fl. oz. / 30 mL