Dermatologists Highly Recommend Avène’s $34 Moisturizer for Healing Sensitive Skin
Avène is a brand that dermatologists consistently recommend. With a history of 275 years, this French drugstore favorite uses thermal spring water known for its natural soothing, softening, and calming properties to treat sensitive skin. Recently, Avène relaunched one of its renowned repair creams, now with a more hydrating and restorative formula called the Avène Cicalfate+ Hydrating Skin Recovery Emulsion ($34).
Dr. Ivy Lee, a board-certified dermatologist in Pasadena, California, praises this product, particularly for sensitive skin after procedures like chemical peels, lasers, and microneedling. She also recommends it for general sensitive skin due to its gentle ingredients that are unlikely to cause irritation or allergies.
The Avène Cicalfate+ Recovery Emulsion is lightweight and breathable, suitable even for fresh tattoos. It is an excellent daily cream for those with sensitive skin who prefer a light feel over heavy creams. However, if you prefer a thicker consistency, this may not be the best long-term option.
Similar to the original formula, the Avène Cicalfate+ Recovery Emulsion contains a copper-zinc sulfate complex known for aiding in wound healing as well as Avène’s spring water. What sets it apart is the addition of high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid for surface hydration and niacinamide for skin soothing properties. Dr. Lee highlights niacinamide as an antioxidant that can help calm inflammation post-procedure, aiding in quicker skin healing. Additionally, this new formulation includes a protein-rich postbiotic that assists in skin restoration.
Dr. Lee notes the emerging research on the skin microbiome and the influence of topical application of microorganisms on it. While cautioning against recommending products solely for these ingredients, she trusts the Avène Cicalfate+ Recovery Emulsion due to its well-researched components that effectively repair and soothe the skin.
