Best Skincare Products for Sensitive Skin in the UAE
Living in the UAE means your sensitive skin faces unique challenges. Hot desert air, intense sun exposure, and constant air conditioning strip moisture from your skin and weaken its protective barrier. Finding products that soothe rather than irritate is essential.
This guide features Korean skincare products specifically chosen for sensitive skin types in the UAE climate. Each product listed below is available at The Pretty Picks with free delivery across the UAE.
What Makes Skin Sensitive in the UAE?
Your skin becomes sensitive when its protective barrier weakens. In the UAE, several factors accelerate this process.
- Extreme heat and low humidity dry out your skin's natural moisture
- Air conditioning creates rapid temperature changes that shock your barrier
- UV exposure damages skin cells and triggers inflammation
- Sand and dust particles irritate and clog pores
Signs of sensitive skin include redness, stinging after product application, tightness, and visible irritation. The right skincare routine addresses all these concerns.
Best Cleansers for Sensitive Skin
Gentle cleansing forms the foundation of any sensitive skin routine. Harsh surfactants strip your skin's oils and worsen irritation.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
This oil cleanser removes makeup and sunscreen without causing irritation. The formula contains Centella Asiatica extract and six botanical oils that purify while protecting your moisture barrier. With 11 minimal ingredients, this cleanser works safely on reactive skin.
Shop SKIN1004 Centella Cleansing Oil
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule Foam
This foam cleanser contains 84% Centella Asiatica extract from Madagascar. The formula gently removes impurities without drying your skin. Natural cleansing agents like baking soda and coconut oil clear pores while calming redness and irritation. EWG green-grade ingredients ensure safety for sensitive skin.
Shop SKIN1004 Centella Foam Cleanser
Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam
This cleanser combines Heartleaf extract with Quercetinol to calm irritation while removing dirt and oil. Triple hyaluronic acid keeps your skin hydrated after cleansing. The Anti-Sebum P Complex controls oil production without over-drying sensitive areas.
Shop Anua Heartleaf Cleansing Foam
Best Toners for Sensitive Skin
Toners prepare your skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers. Sensitive skin needs alcohol-free formulas with calming ingredients.
Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
This toner contains 77% Houttuynia Cordata (Heartleaf) extract. The formula calms redness, balances oil production, and strengthens your skin barrier. Vegan and paraben-free, this toner works well in Dubai's hot and humid climate. Customers report softer, more balanced skin within days of use.
Beauty of Joseon Glow Replenishing Rice Milk
This dual-layer toner draws from traditional Korean skincare wisdom. Rice bran water delivers intense hydration while the powder layer absorbs excess sebum. The formula soothes sensitive skin, refines texture, and promotes a radiant complexion without irritation.
Shop Beauty of Joseon Rice Milk Toner
Best Serums and Essences for Sensitive Skin
Serums deliver concentrated ingredients deep into your skin. For sensitive types, Centella Asiatica and snail mucin provide healing without irritation.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
This signature ampoule contains 100% Centella Asiatica extract from Madagascar. The extract contains seven times more soothing actives than regular Centella. The lightweight formula penetrates deeply to repair damaged skin, regulate your water-oil balance, and strengthen your barrier. Suitable for all skin types, including reactive and sensitive skin.
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SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
This high-concentration formula deeply hydrates and repairs your skin barrier. Fermented Centella Asiatica combined with ProBio-Cica delivers enhanced calming effects. Ceramide NP, phytosterol, and fatty acids in a 3:1:1 ratio mimic your skin's natural lipids. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly without greasiness.
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COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
This essence contains 96.3% snail secretion filtrate. Snail mucin hydrates deeply, supports skin regeneration, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly and layers well under other products. Ideal for sensitive skin seeking repair and hydration without irritation.
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Best Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin
Moisturizers seal hydration and protect your barrier from UAE's harsh environment. Look for soothing ingredients and lightweight textures.
Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream
This lightweight moisturizer uses the "345" golden ratio of Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, and Calendula. The formula reduces redness, calms itchiness, and repairs your skin barrier. Dermatologist-tested and free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and artificial colors. Ceramide NP strengthens your barrier against UAE's hot and dry weather.
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Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream
This advanced cream strengthens your skin barrier with seven-layered hyaluronic acid. Chamomile Flower Oil and Azulene calm irritated skin and reduce redness. Avocado, argan oil, and Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil provide intense nourishment. The silky, non-greasy finish makes this cream ideal for daily use under makeup.
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SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream
This deeply moisturizing cream repairs and strengthens your skin barrier while soothing dry and sensitive skin. Vegan ProBio-Cica (Centella fermented with TECA) prevents moisture loss and improves skin smoothness. Free from artificial fragrances and colors. The unique texture stretches for gentle application without irritation.
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COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-In-One Cream
This multi-functional cream contains 92% snail mucin. The formula deeply nourishes, restores elasticity, soothes irritation, and enhances skin smoothness. The lightweight texture absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue. Ideal for dry and sensitive skin seeking intense hydration and repair.
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Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin
Sun protection is essential in the UAE. Choose sunscreens with SPF 50+ that hydrate rather than irritate sensitive skin.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum
This lightweight chemical sunscreen provides SPF50+ PA++++ protection. The serum-like texture ensures a breathable, dewy finish without white cast. Centella Asiatica extract and Hyaluronic Acid calm irritation and maintain moisture balance. The non-nano formula offers gentle yet effective sun defense for all skin types.
Shop SKIN1004 Centella Sun Serum
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh
This SPF 50+ PA++++ sunscreen provides robust UV protection while nourishing your skin with Rice Seed Water and Panthenol. The lightweight, fluid texture absorbs quickly without stickiness. The formula keeps your skin plump, smooth, and hydrated throughout the day. Works well for oily to combination sensitive skin.
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Anua Zero-Cast Moisturizing Finish Sunscreen
This SPF 50 sunscreen combines UV protection with lasting hydration. Niacinamide and panthenol fade dark spots, control oil, and strengthen your skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin lock in moisture for up to 72 hours. The fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula leaves no white cast and layers well under makeup.
Best Pads and Masks for Sensitive Skin
Treatment pads and masks deliver concentrated care. For sensitive skin, choose formulas with soothing ingredients that cleanse without stripping.
Anua Heartleaf 77 Clear Pad
These pre-soaked pads contain 77% Heartleaf extract. The dual-sided design gently exfoliates dead skin cells while calming sensitive or acne-prone skin. The Anti Sebum P Complex balances oil production without irritation. These pads work well for UAE's hot and dusty climate.
Shop Anua Heartleaf Clear Pads
Key Ingredients for Sensitive Skin
Understanding which ingredients benefit sensitive skin helps you choose the right products.
Centella Asiatica (CICA): Soothes inflammation, promotes healing, and strengthens your skin barrier. Found in SKIN1004 and Dr. Althea products.
Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata): Calms redness, reduces irritation, and balances oil production. Featured in Anua products.
Snail Mucin: Hydrates deeply, supports skin regeneration, and repairs damage. Available in COSRX formulas.
Ceramides: Restore your skin's natural barrier and prevent moisture loss. Found in Dr. Althea and SKIN1004 creams.
Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration without heaviness. Present in most products listed above.
Sample Routine for Sensitive Skin in UAE
Build your routine gradually. Start with cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Add serums once your skin adjusts.
Morning Routine
- Cleanse with SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule Foam
- Apply Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
- Pat in COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
- Moisturize with Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream
- Protect with SKIN1004 Centella Hyalu-Cica Sun Serum
Evening Routine
- Double cleanse: Start with SKIN1004 Centella Cleansing Oil, follow with the foam cleanser
- Apply Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
- Layer SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
- Seal with SKIN1004 Probio-Cica Enrich Cream
Tips for Managing Sensitive Skin in UAE
- Patch test new products on your inner arm before applying to your face
- Introduce one new product at a time. Wait 7 to 10 days before adding another
- Apply products to damp skin for better absorption
- Use a humidifier indoors to counteract air conditioning dryness
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors
- Avoid hot water when cleansing. Use lukewarm water instead
Shop Sensitive Skin Products at The Pretty Picks
All products featured in this guide ship free across the UAE. Orders arrive within 2 to 4 business days. Browse the complete Eczema and Dryness Relief Collection or the Skin Barrier Repair Collection for more options suited to your sensitive skin needs.
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