Sensitive Skin and the Clarisonic
Sensitive skin and the Clarisonic or other sonic skin cleansing systems - can you use them? Many of my patients and readers have sensitive skin. A reader just sent me this question and I want to share my answer.
What is the best skin cleanser to use with the Clarisonic if you have sensitive skin?
Dear Dr. Bailey, I’ve recently ordered several of your products and really love what I’ve tried so far. My question is this: I’m a 57-year-old female with fair skin. I always sunburn, was born a natural redhead, have broken capillaries around my nose and some on my upper cheek area, and I have dry skin with a slight t-zone problems in the hotter months. Can I use the Clarisonic Plus Skin Cleansing System? I would love to really start pampering my skin as I get older and would love to buy this if you think it would not damage my already sensitive and thin skin. Please let me know, my birthday is coming up and my husband always asks me what I want. I usually tell him that I cannot think of anything special, but this year may be different. LOL Thanks so much, Jean B
Dear Jean, Happy almost birthday! I have patients of all skin types - including people with delicate and fine skin - using (and loving) the Clarisonic Plus Skin Cleansing System.
When a person starts using the Clarisonic System, I typically tell them to use a gentler cleanser than they normally use.
A great cleanser to start with is my Extremely Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser. This pH balanced gentle cleanser is what I use with my Clarisonic Brush on my sensitive complexion.
If their skin reacts well to the Clarisonic with the gentle cleanser, then they can carefully try other cleansers such as acne treatment cleansers etc.
At the time of updating this post in 2021, the Clarisonic has been taken off of the market. We are sad and hope it comes back. Until then, I am recommending other sonic systems such as the Foreo. If you happen to have a Clarisonic, treasure it and hope it lives a long and useful life!
And again, Happy Birthday!
Warm Regards,
Cynthia Bailey MD, Dermatologist
If you have questions about skin care or skin health please send them to me using the Contact Dr. Bailey button at the top of the page. Disclaimer: Please realize that availing yourself of the opportunity to submit and receive answers to your questions from Dr. Bailey does not confer a doctor/patient relationship with Dr. Bailey. The information provided by Dr. Bailey is general health information inspired by your question. It should not be a substitute for obtaining medical advice from your physician and is not intended to diagnose or treat any specific medical problem (and is not an extension of the care Dr. Bailey has provided in her office for existing patients of her practice). Never ignore your own doctor’s advice because of something you read here; this information is for general informational purpose only.