Burt’s Bees nature-based sensitive skin regimen is well-tolerated as well as clinically and statistically superior to a leading dermatologist-recommended synthetic regimen, according to a study in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Burt’s Bees’ nature-based regimen consists of Sensitive Facial Cleanser, Sensitive Daily Moisturizing Cream and Sensitive Night Cream.  This 4-week, double-blind, randomized study was conducted in 120 women with sensitive skin with clinically diagnosed rosacea, atopic dermatitis/eczema, or cosmetic intolerance. Burt’s Bees Sensitive Skin Regimen clinically and statistically improved physician-rated overall skin appearance by 34 percent with similar improvements in visual and tactile smoothness, clarity and radiance. In contrast, the maximum improvement in women using the synthetic regimen of cetyl alcohol, sodium lauryl sulphate-containing cleanser and glycerin, polyisobutene-containing lotion was 4 percent.

No clinically significant tolerability issues were reported in either regimen after 4 weeks of daily administration. Both regimens improved epidermal barrier function as measured by transepidermal water loss. The Burt’s Bees regimen optimized skin hydration to improve and maintain skin health. The synthetic regimen was associated with over hydration possibly resulting from the occlusive barrier it provides.

“The data suggest that nature-based products can be effective for patients who seek alternatives to conventional, synthetic skin care products,” says Zoe Draelos, MD, a dermatologist in High Point, NC and the study’s principal investigator, in a news release. “Patients with sensitive skin saw a clinical improvement in overall skin appearance, specifically in visual and tactile smoothness, clarity, and radiance.”