If your skin has become sensitive in perimenopause or menopause, every new product feels like a gamble. Here is an honest look at whether truffle skincare is likely to suit you, what to check first, and how to try it safely.
Why skin becomes sensitive in menopause
As oestrogen falls, the ceramides that hold skin's barrier together decline, so skin loses water more easily and irritants get in more easily. Products you used for years can suddenly sting. Our guide to why mature skin becomes sensitive explains this in detail.
Is black truffle itself a problem?
Black truffle is not known as a common skin irritant. What is inside it, amino acids, antioxidants, natural sugars and fatty acids, is generally gentle and hydrating.
But nobody puts truffle on their face on its own. A cream is a whole formula, and the other ingredients matter just as much. That is where to look.
The Peptide Crème to renew, hydrate, strengthen and protect. The Eye Crème for fine lines and tired looking eyes. Or both together in the Black Diamond Duo.
What to check on the label
- Fragrance. Fragrance is a common trigger for reactive skin. The Peptide Crème has a light scent from Manuka honey.
- Exfoliating acids. Strong acids can sting. The Peptide Crème uses gentle lactic acid and gluconolactone in small amounts.
- Retinol. Useful, but drying. The Eye Crème contains a low amount.
- Drying alcohol high up the list.
Our full ingredient lists, with plain English notes, are on each product page.
Our sensitive skin testing
The Peptide Crème has been tested on sensitive skin and passed. That is a good sign, not a guarantee: every skin is different, and if you know you react to fragrance or have a diagnosed skin condition, patch test first and check with your dermatologist.
How to patch test properly
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests applying a new product to a small spot, such as the inner elbow, twice a day for 7 to 10 days. If there is no redness, itching or swelling, it is less likely to irritate your face. Introduce only one new product at a time.
Adding retinol to sensitive skin
Many women with sensitive skin still want the benefits of retinol. The kindest way is to hydrate first: apply a thin, hydrating cream, let it sink in, then apply your retinol over the top, a few nights a week. Our founder, Sabina, does exactly this with The Peptide Crème under her tretinoin. Keep prescription retinoids away from the eye area.
When to see someone
If redness, burning or a rash continues after you have simplified your routine, or you think you may have rosacea or eczema, see your GP or a dermatologist.
