Laura Geller's Sensitive Skin Secrets for Mature Beauty

Dr. Anya Sharma · 2026-02-19

Let's be honest, caring for mature skin that's also sensitive can feel like walking a tightrope. You want powerful ingredients, but your skin throws a fit. You need hydration, but everything feels heavy. It's frustrating. That's why we sat down with makeup icon and skincare expert Laura Geller. She's built her career on understanding what real skin needs, especially as it changes. Her advice isn't about chasing trends—it's about building a simple, gentle routine that actually works. ### Start with a Gentle Cleanse Laura's first rule? Never strip your skin. "Harsh cleansers are the enemy of mature, sensitive skin," she explains. They wash away your natural oils, leaving your barrier weak and irritated. Think of your skin's barrier like the mortar between bricks. When it's compromised, everything gets in and moisture gets out. She recommends a creamy, non-foaming cleanser. Massage it onto dry skin with your fingertips—no rough washcloths—and rinse with lukewarm water. Hot water can cause redness and broken capillaries. This one change can make a world of difference in calming inflammation. ### The Power of Layered Hydration As we age, our skin loses its ability to hold onto water. Sensitive skin compounds this issue. Laura's solution is to think in layers, not one heavy cream. - Start with a hydrating toner or essence on damp skin. - Follow with a serum packed with hyaluronic acid. - Seal it all in with a richer moisturizer containing ceramides. This method delivers moisture at different levels. It's like watering a plant deeply, rather than just sprinkling the surface. Your skin drinks it up without feeling overwhelmed or clogged. ### Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable "I don't care how sensitive your skin is, you must wear sunscreen every single day," Laura states firmly. Sun damage is the leading cause of premature aging, and it weakens sensitive skin further. Look for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They sit on top of the skin and are less likely to cause reactions than chemical filters. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 is the absolute minimum. Reapply every two hours if you're outdoors. ### Makeup That Cares for Your Skin Your makeup shouldn't just cover—it should treat. Laura is a huge advocate for makeup with skincare benefits. A tinted moisturizer with SPF, a creamy blush that blends seamlessly, and a hydrating lip color can enhance your look while nourishing your skin. Avoid heavy, matte foundations that settle into fine lines. Instead, opt for light-reflecting formulas that give a luminous, healthy glow. Less is always more. As Laura puts it, "The goal is to look like you, just well-rested and radiant." ### Listen to Your Skin's Signals Finally, Laura emphasizes patience and observation. "Your skin will tell you what it needs," she says. If a product causes stinging or redness, stop using it. Introduce new products one at a time, waiting a week between additions. Building a routine for sensitive, mature skin isn't about a 10-step process. It's about consistency, gentleness, and choosing products that respect your skin's changing needs. Start with these core principles, and you'll build a foundation for calm, comfortable, and beautiful skin at any age.