My Favorite Skincare Products of 2021 for Dry + Sensitive Skin

It’s that time when we pause to set goals for the new year. For me, that means reviewing what really worked for me. I prefer to focus on what works well versus what didn’t–a strength-based evaluation process if you will. That includes taking stock of the tools and habits of my professional life, wellness routines, and my beauty routine, and skincare products. The final matter brings us here today!

When it comes to my skincare products, I am fortunate to try many because of my blog and my ferocious curiosity. My eczema also pushes me to try new beauty products. I’m on a never-ending search for the most moisturizing and natural skincare products I can find for my dry skin.

This year, I also turned 34, which felt a little different. I’m taking my beauty product selections even more seriously now. Whether you suffer from eczema like me or just really struggle with dry skin during the winter, I hope this roundup helps you. I’m confident and excited to share this high-level roundup so you can kick off 2022 with a literal glow-up.

1: PMD Smart Facial Cleanser ($99)

I’ve actually had this tool for a few years. I just really fell in love with it this year after a partnership with the PMD brand. Catch my video here. It is the most practical facial cleansing tool I can find. It gently exfoliates, but not too much. The end result is a clean face that is ready to absorb skincare products before I go to bed or before I start my day. Bonus: I also use the back of the PMD cleanser tool to help my serums soak in.

2: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask ($22)

This was a random “add to cart” purchase several months ago. I am now officially hooked on this beauty product. This rich lip balm goes on smoothly and keeps my lips moisturized throughout the night. I also dab it on during the day occasionally especially when I feel dry from allergies or a flare-up. It’s not too greasy and doesn’t tingle at all like some overnight products.

3: Bye Bye Undereye Illuminating Full Coverage Concealer ($28) Also 2020 Fav

This product remains one of my most used make-up items. It has also lasted FOREVER. This tiny little bottle is the ONLY under-eye concealer that doesn’t cake up with my dry skin. It truly covers dark circles and redness around my nose, as well. I dab a tiny drop under each eye and blend with a foam beauty blender. There’s something slightly moisturizing, and yes, illuminating about it. I look well-rested and ready for the camera.

4: Buxom Full-On Plumping Cream Gloss ($21)

I found this beauty product from a favorite blogger Payton Sartain. The lip gloss has the perfect extra sheen and plumps the lips slightly. The tingle doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin, but brings the blood to the surface just enough for an extra pout. The color options are all very natural and so I feel like it highlights your assets versus overpowering them. I add a lip liner just slightly darker than my lip color before I slip this on for a sleek and natural upgrade.

5: The Ordinary Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil ($9.80)

I love my facial oils. This dry skin can’t get enough moisture, but it has to be the right kind. I’ve made my way through facial oil products that cost $100+ and anywhere in between. This new discovery has worked just as well as all of them and costs less than $10. I wake up, spray on some toner, massage on a serum, and then work this in. It’s a lovely 2-minute morning ritual that wakes up my face and my mind with ease. I let it sit for an hour or so before I put on makeup.

6: Luna Sleeping Retinoid Night Oil ($55)

Everyday time beauty product has to have its balance at night. This is another new discovery that packs some punch without a huge price tag. The oil is actually bright blue when it comes out, so don’t be alarmed! When you smooth it into your face, the color generally goes away. The night oil supports healthy skin with the power of retinoids, but without the irritation of traditional retinol, which is great for sensitive skin. It all helps fight the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, promotes skin elasticity, and stimulates surface exfoliation while you sleep.

7: Laneige Water Bank Moisturizer ($38)

Another Laneige product made the list! The brand’s lineup of products mirrors Clinique’s moisturizing products. I’ve tested them side by side and I’m here to say Laneige is better. The Water Bank Moisturizer is similar to the Clinique Moisture Surge, but it sticks and stays better. I use this around my eyes night and day. You don’t necessarily need a specific eye cream for your eyes, just a little extra oomph.

8: Stacked Dry Skin Dermaplaning Kit ($200)

I finally discovered dermaplaning in 2021. I was afraid it would be difficult on my eczema, but I also knew the power of exfoliation for those of us who suffer from dry sensitive skin. The tool itself physically removes dry, dead skin that can prevent your other skincare products like moisturizers from soaking in. The set comes with two powerful partners, a peel and a serum. Infused with hydrating lactic acid the glycolic face peel draws moisture into the skin as it dissolves dry skin build-up. The hyaluronic acid serum attracts moisture into the skin. I do this process once a week or so.

My Favorite Skincare Products of 2021 for Dry + Sensitive Skin