When my friend recommended that cosmetic, I was honestly skeptical
“Hey, try this. It’s really good for your skin problems.”
When a friend I hadn’t seen in a while earnestly recommended a cosmetic product to me, my initial reaction was honestly indifferent. Having worked with numerous products in the beauty industry, I had become all too familiar with the term “Holy Grail,” so another “must-try” product failed to excite me. Especially since my skin was unpredictable, affected by seasonal changes or even minor stress—a true “glass barrier.” After numerous trials and errors, I wasn’t eager to disrupt my minimal routine. Still, my friend’s earnest eyes, which had watched my skin struggles for a long time, sparked a tiny curiosity inside me.
The endless cycle of a sensitive skin dilemma
Those with sensitive skin can likely relate deeply. The anticipation of a new product, followed soon by disappointment. No matter how many so-called effective products I tried, I felt like I was going in circles. During seasonal changes, my skin would inevitably redden, and on polluted days, tiny blemishes would appear. The cream that was supposed to be good for hydration would cause oiliness the next day, and the serum meant to soothe made my skin tingle instead. After such experiences, I gave up on new challenges.
“No matter what I use, my skin stays the same. I’ll just use mild products to maintain it.”
This is a kind of defense mechanism for those with sensitive skin. Finding relief in avoiding worsening conditions and dismissing fundamental improvement as impossible. This was the dilemma I was caught in and is the cycle many with sensitive skin endlessly experience.
Between doubt and curiosity, the first encounter
Finally succumbing to my friend’s persistent persuasion, I accepted the product. My friend didn’t promise spectacular effects. Instead, they emphasized the somewhat plain-sounding keyword: “skin barrier strengthening.” The explanation was that the product focuses on establishing a foundation for healthy skin that doesn’t easily react to external stimuli. My friend’s focus on the essence of the product rather than marketing rhetoric slowly melted my frozen heart.
That night, I started a skincare routine that was different from usual. The texture was light and soft, with no artificial smell or irritation when applied. The most impressive quality was its absorption. It absorbed into the skin without leaving any residue or stickiness, allowing for multiple layers without feeling heavy. The initial sensation wasn’t “astonishment” but rather “comfort.” Like wearing a well-fitting outfit, my skin felt comfortable and relaxed. This alone was a passing mark for a sensitive skin product.
Change comes silently, yet clearly
Dramatic changes didn’t occur from the first day. But about a week later, I realized that my skin didn’t feel significantly tight after cleansing. The morning redness that used to bother me noticeably decreased. The most significant change was in the texture of my skin. The once rough, flaky surface gradually became smooth and flexible, as if my parched skin was being replenished. It was like the parched land slowly regained life after a much-needed rain.
By the second week, I truly felt the meaning of strengthening the skin barrier. Even on days when I would typically have a breakout due to exhaustion, my skin remained remarkably calm. My defense against external stimuli had certainly increased. I finally understood my friend’s comments about helping my skin build its own strength, rather than merely providing temporary moisture or nutrients. I no longer feared trying new products.
Finding the true meaning of a “good cosmetic”
Through this experience, I redefined good cosmetics. Rather than relying on flashy ads or a single star ingredient, a truly good cosmetic is one that understands the fundamental mechanism of the skin and nurtures its natural strength. For sensitive skin like mine, a fundamental solution that can be consistently used is far more important than temporary results. Establishing a healthy and strong skin barrier is the start of all skincare and the most reliable solution. I now advise others to start by building their skin’s basic resilience when they ask for recommendations.
This experience has highlighted that suitable cosmetics for sensitive skin require a specialized approach that goes beyond mere mildness, focusing on restoring the skin’s natural balance. YURICO5 is dedicated to creating skin-friendly products with this perspective, so if you’re interested in developing a sensitive skin line or functional cosmetics, please submit a proposal.
