Review: Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser

Product Information: (from http://www.dermalogica.com/):
An extremely gentle cleansing gel/cream that can either be rinsed off or gently removed with tissue or The Sponge Cloth. Helps combat skin sensitivity caused by exposure to pollution, harsh climate, irritating cosmetic products and other environmental influences. Contains no artificial fragrance or color.

Review:
This cleanser is very calming on my skin. When I am having eczema or other skin sensitivity, this cleanser does not sting and actually helps lower the discomfort caused by the eczema.

I particularly like Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser because Cetaphil Cleanser started to sting my skin and cause redness whenever I cleanse my face. I usually double cleanse as I have sunscreen on my face.  On my first wash with Cetaphil, my skin would feel a slight sting and would usually not feel clean. But the second wash would cause a lot more stinging and redness. This would worsen when I am having eczema. There is no such stinging or redness with Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser, which is why I think this is a better cleanser for sensitive skin. (Please note that all skin types are different, so even if you have sensitive and eczema-prone skin like mine, you might have a different experience from mine.)

The Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser does not foam and I was not used to non-foaming cleansers initially. I felt as though my skin was not clean after cleansing. But I got used to it and my skin did not feel dried out after cleansing. In fact, it felt comfortably moist, which is a feeling that will not happen when cleansers are too harsh for your skin (your skin will usually feel very tight and dry).  So it is good that my skin feels moist after cleansing as keeping moisture in the skin helps keep skin sensitivity low and prevents eczema as well. The cleanser is good for those with dry skin as well. 

It is a plus that this cleanser has no harsh ingredients, like fragrances or alcohol, which lowers the risk for sensitivity. The gel/cream texture is also easy to use and does not have any drag when making cleansing motions around the face.

In general, I am enjoying the Dermalogica UltraCalming range of products (except the UltraCalming Relief Masque, which stings badly!) I will continue reviewing the other products in the UltraCalming range soon :)

Review: Dermalogica UltraCalming Barrier Repair

Product Information: (credit: dermalogica.com)

Help fortify sensitized skin and a damaged barrier with this velvety, anhydrous (waterless) moisturizer. Use after toning to help shield against environmental and internal triggers that cause skin stress. Contains our exclusive UltraCalmingTM Complex to interrupt inflammatory triggers that lead to sensitization, while helping to minimize discomfort, burning and itching. Formulated without artificial fragrances and colors.

Review:

I was previously using Avene Skin Recovery Cream but noticed that my eczema problems returned and so I decided to try out the Dermalogica UltraCalming range of products after it was recommended to me by my beautician. I started with the Dermalogica UltraCalming trial kit then purchased the full sized products and have been using the Dermalogica Ultracalming range since. I am finishing my second tube of Dermalogica UltraCalming Barrier Repair now and intend to purchase another tube of this soon.

I really like the Dermalogica UltraCalming Barrier Repair because I noticed that my eczema breakouts are less frequent and when applied over sensitized spots, the Barrier Repair does not cause any stinging or redness. In fact I find that Dermalogica UltraCalming Barrier Repair is quite soothing, helps calm the skin and because it is a silicone-based moisturiser, it helps seal moisture in my skin and forms a barrier over my eczema spots so they heal faster and do not occur as frequently as before. 

I have not experienced any breakouts from this moisturiser. I find it moisturises better than the water-based Avene Skin Recovery Cream. I also like the silicone texture as it glides on very smoothly and my sunblock adheres well to my skin in the mornings. 

I would recommend this moisturiser for those with highly sensitive skin and eczema-prone skin types. I am currently using the UltraCalming Mist and Serum Concentrate with the Barrier Repair and I think these three products have been working well for my skin. I will definitely repurchase!

Review: Avene Skin Recovery Cream

credit: avene.co.uk

Product Info (credit: avene.co.uk):

Calming cream specifically designed for naturally sensitive skin (fair, thin, prone to redness), or skin which has become sensitised due to climatic conditions, excessive cleansing, drying cosmetic or dermatological treatments. It quickly calms irritation, helps restore the hydrolipidic film and provides long-lasting protection. Its formula has been specially developed with a minimum of ingredients, all selected for their gentleness. Free from paraben, fragrance and colouring agents.

Review:

I have used about 3 or 4 tubes of Avene Skin Recovery Cream now, also known as Cream for Intolerant Skin in the US. There is another Rich version of the cream that I have also used and will review later. 

 I started using Avene Skin Recovery Cream when I got a very bad eczema outbreak. I still have my eczema and I like Avene Skin Recovery Cream because it doesn't irritate my skin further. There is no stinging sensation or redness even when applied at the eczema areas. It does help to soothe my eczema but I need something oilier on top as the areas are usually very dry. I usually layer with either Avene Instant Smoothing Moisture Mask or Avene Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream, both are oilier creams which I do not use daily. Avene Skin Recovery Cream can be used daily as it is a moisturizer. 


The Skin Recovery Cream spreads very easily and absorbs fast. There is no sticky sensation when applied and it leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated.  The cream is not oily, it feels more water based and soothes my skin well. Avene Skin Recovery Cream is good if you have eczema skin/sensitive or irritated skin like mine.


All in all, I am satisfied with this cream as it is a simple, basic hydrating cream which does not irritate my eczema and is suitable for my skin type. I have been re-purchasing many times and I even have spares of this tube so that I never run out. 


The cream does not come cheap, it is S$40+ for one 30ml tube, so it is best to stock up during a sale or buy them from hospital pharmacies where they are sold at a cheaper price.