I'm an Editor With Sensitive Skin—8 Derm-Tested CVS Products I Trust

My skin is like my soul: unapologetically sensitive. It can be a daunting task to find one product (let alone a whole routine) that checks all the boxes I need to keep my skin happy. I can always count on my coworker and Beauty Director Stephanie Johnson for the best skincare recommendations—I'll use any product to get glowing skin like hers—so I asked her to point me in the right direction.

"My skin type is combination but leans a bit more on the oily side," she tells me. "My dermatologist actually told me the reason my skin is oily is that it's dry, so I keep producing oil to compensate—who knew?" And Johnson is right there with me on having sensitive skin. "I also suffer from sensitive skin that's prone to rosacea and dermatitis if I'm not careful, so I'm mindful to choose products that are fragrance-free," she explains.

Even with her combination-sensitive skin, there's one place she always shops for formulas that work: CVS. Not only are many of its products dermatologist-tested, but they won't cost you your whole paycheck. Keep scrolling to shop Johnson's favorite soothing, hydrating products that you'll want to make a part of your routine.

Why do you go to CVS for skincare products for sensitive skin?

Simply put, CVS is your go-to for derm-tested skincare products that soothe, hydrate, and calm sensitive skin—without going over budget. "I like that CVS carries effective products with soothing ingredients at an accessible price point," Johnson tells me. She also notes CVS's variety of affordable, derm-loved brands such as Vanicream, CeraVe, Neutrogena, and La Roche-Posay. Johnson goes on to tell me that she's a savvy shopper, and appreciates that CVS delivers high-efficacy suncare at accessible price points through minis, trial sizes, and affordable alternatives to social media–viral products. CVS also runs Extra Big Deal promotions, BOGO sales, and same-day delivery so you can save time and money while stocking up on your favorites.

What do you look for when buying skincare products?

CVS products are expertly formulated with highly effective ingredients that editors love, including hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, and more. When it comes to sensitive skin, Johnson has two recommended ingredients to focus on. "Since my skin is dehydrated and sensitive, I really focus on hyaluronic acid and ceramides to strengthen and moisturize my skin barrier," she says. If you're not sure where to start with building your skincare routine, Johnson notes that CVS beauty consultants are there to help. "They're expertly trained in everything from beauty to personal care to trending products, so they're a great resource for getting product guidance," she says.

Which skincare products do you recommend?

No matter your skin type or which product you're shopping for, CVS makes it easy to find exactly what you're looking for. This begs the question: What is in Johnson's cart? "I'm a huge fan of CeraVe's Cream to Foam Cleanser ($19) because it gives me the boost of moisture I need while also ridding my skin of any impurities," she gushes.

"La Roche-Posay's Hyalu B5 Serum ($54) is great for locking in hydration without irritating my skin, and I won't go in the sun without La Roche-Posay's Mineral Tinted Sunscreen ($40)," she says. "I'm also prone to hyperpigmentation, so I prefer a mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, and my dermatologist told me it helps to wear a sunscreen with a bit of a tint for even more coverage."