About Dr. Michelle Henry
Dr. Michelle Henry brings trusted dermatological expertise to Essentials, helping consumers discover gentle, effective care designed with sensitive skin in mind.
She is a board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, international speaker, and educator. She is the Founder and CEO of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan and the Founder of The Henry Research Group, where she leads cutting-edge clinical research and innovation in dermatology. Dr. Henry also serves as a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, where she contributes to the training of future dermatologists.
FAQs:
Q: When you first experienced Essentials, what immediately stood out to you as a dermatologist?
A: “It was the quality of the product and how hydrating it was for my skin. The cleanser didn't strip my skin or leave me with that uncomfortable, squeaky-clean feeling. I also love knowing that the fragrance is hypoallergenic. And the added bonus was the safe, immersive fragrance moment.”
Q: Can fragrance and sensitive skin go together?
A: “They can if the product formulation really dictates it from the beginning. What I love about Essentials is that both the skincare and the fragrance were developed in tandem. Bath & Body Works considered sensitive skin from the very beginning. Essentials takes care of skin while allowing sensitive skin patients to enjoy fragrance the same way everyone does.”
Q: What ingredients do you look for in body care for sensitive skin, and which ingredients and Essentials stand out to you the most?
A: “One is glycerin for hydration. Hyaluronic acid also offers robust hydration for skin. Lastly, we want to support the skin barrier with my faves: shea and cocoa butters.”
Q: Would you recommend Essentials to people with sensitive skin?
A: “Absolutely. As long as you don’t have a fragrance sensitivity, you can use Essentials with confidence. The fragrance is formulated with hypoallergenic ingredients.”
Q: The skin replenishing body wash is Ph balanced. What does that mean and why does it
matter?
A: “We're looking at a gentle formula that won’t disrupt the skin barrier. We don't want it to be too acidic or too alkaline, so the skin barrier can function at its best.”
Q: Essentials was made for sensitive skin. What does that mean for consumers considering this collection?
A: “It means the products were really made with sensitive skin in mind. The skincare and fragrance were developed together, with hypoallergenic fragrance ingredients and body care ingredients made for sensitive skin. They also deliver hydration.”
Q: Why are hydration and maintaining the skin barrier especially important for sensitive skin?
A: “The skin barrier can be compromised with sensitive skin, making it harder to lock in and hold onto moisture. Skin really works best when it's well hydrated. I always say we should waterproof our skin to keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. That's why hydration is so important. We want to strengthen that critical function of the skin in a gentle, lasting way.”
Q: How can someone build an effective body care routine that feels outside? How can someone build an effective body care routine that feels like a self-care ritual?
A: “I think creating a skincare routine you look forward to is really important. You want the right ingredients that feel good and something you'll stick to. Something you’ll use once or twice a day, every day. Really. Use a cleanser that won’t strip your skin and choose a moisturizer with nourishing ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid. Find something with a fragrance that’s gentle enough for daily use.”
Learn more about our Essentials body care collection.