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Sensitive skin can be difficult to deal with, no matter what time of year it is. Sensitivity refers to a hyper-reaction to environmental factors because of a compromised naturally protective skin barrier. Though sensitive skin isn’t considered a diagnosis, there are several common sensitive skin symptoms that can help signify sensitivity. Some indicators are:
- Itchy skin
- Burning skin
- Dry skin patches
- Red and blotchy skin reactions
There are many causes behind skin sensitivity, such as allergies, a genetic skin condition, or even reactions from exposure to certain ingredients, products, or environmental aggressors.
At the heart of any type of allergy is inflammation, in this case, the skin cells. This quickly breaks down collagen and the extracellular matrix and leads to signs of irritated skin.
How Do You Take Care of Sensitive Skin?
No matter the cause of the sensitivity, chronically sensitive skin needs nurturing, nourishment, and care to restore and maintain the protective skin barrier. Follow our do’s and don’ts to help minimize aggravating symptoms.
Do: Choose Nourishing Skin Products
When buying any product for sensitive skin, take a careful look at the label for the ingredients. Soaps and shampoos should be sulfate-free, sans any artificial fragrances and dyes. For skincare products like lotions and moisturizers, consider those labeled hypoallergenic. Be sure the ingredient list does not contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals.
Do: Lower the Heat
Heat can speed up the evaporation of moisture on the surface of your skin, leaving it parched. Ergo, turn down the heat in your house as much as possible to help protect your skin.
Don’t: Take Hot Showers
Like hot air, hot water can dry and dull the skin. As much as you may love them, skip the hot baths and showers. Granted, it might relax your muscles, but your skin won’t be a happy camper.
Don’t: Use Harsh Chemicals
Be sure your dishwashing soaps, laundry detergents, hand soaps, and shampoos don’t contain harsh chemicals. If you do come into contact with them, always wear protective gloves.
How Can You Treat Sensitive Skin at Home?
There are a couple things you are able to do to help minimize irritation at home. The key is remembering to practice self care, and give your skin a little extra love.
Topical Creams
There are various topical creams that cater to sensitive skin. You can get great over-the-counter options, or consider prescription strength options through your dermatologist. Hydrocortisone can be helpful, as well as numbing creams to help reduce itching.
Natural Ingredients
There are several natural ingredients that may help relieve sensitive skin. A few to consider include:
- Oatmeal
- Shea butter
- Avocado
- Honey
- Aloe vera gel
Try applying them directly or create a homemade mask.
Nourishing Oils
Everyone loves the moisturizing and soothing properties of natural oils. Many can offer deep nourishment and hydration. Since oils are quite thick, they help form a protective layer over the skin, helping to minimize moisture evaporation. A few to consider include:
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
Wear SPF
Unfortunately for many with a sensitive skin type, UV light can cause redness and irritation. Most broad spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher can help protect your skin from UV rays and unnecessary inflammation.
Wear Moisturizer
Moisturizers play an important role in soothing inflamed and irritated skin. Choose one designed for sensitive skin, and be sure to pat it when applying instead of rubbing. This application method is gentler and can help avoid flare ups.If you’re looking for more bang for the buck, apply your moisturizer to damp skin to help seal the water in.
What is the Best Skin Care Routine for Sensitive Skin?
Designing a skincare routine for your specific skin type is imperative to keep it looking healthy and glowing. Key components of a daily skincare routine include:
Using a Gentle Cleanser
Cleansing is necessary to take off the layer of dirt and pollution that may result in unbalanced and oily skin. It allows it to breathe. Choose a gentle cleanser that’s free of sulfates, artificial fragrances, and dyes. For deeper cleaning or removing heavy makeup, try an oil-based cleanser. These gently clean the skin without exposing it to harsh chemicals or stripping the skin of its natural oils. Bonus, they also nourish the skin!
Incorporating an Exfoliator or Scrub
Over time, the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin accumulate, leading to clogged pores and resulting in black and whiteheads, oily skin, as well as acne. With sensitive skin, look for toners with lactic acid and scrubs with Vitamin E and Vitamin B5.
Using Alcohol-free Toners
Since alcohol has a drying effect, it’s important to use toners that are alcohol-free. Bonus points if you use one that offers ingredients that hydrate. Be sure to look for naturally soothing ingredients in a toner, like chamomile, green tea, and beta glucan.
Applying Serums and/or Oils
For an extra dose of nourishment, add a serum or oil to your skincare routine. These oils will penetrate deep into the skin and also form a moisturizing layer on the surface. Some of the most-used oils for sensitive skin are rosehip, jojoba, tea tree, and lavender oil.
Not Skipping the Moisturizer
Serums can help hydrate, but you should also use an excellent moisturizer that helps nourish the skin. Make sure it’s free of synthetic fragrance, alcohol, and synthetic dyes. If you are doing your routine at night, choose a thicker product. Also, don’t forget to moisturize the eyes!
Not Skimping on the Sunscreen
Those with sensitive skin often find sunscreen is essential. Try to consider one with zinc oxide as it is proven to be gentle on some people with sensitive skin. Make sure all your beauty products, including makeup to skin care, contain SPF. Psst.. our CCC Clean Corrective with Vitamin C Tinted Moisturizer checks all the boxes. Your skin will thank you later.
Using a Face Mask Occasionally
Gel-based masks are shown to be better for sensitive skin as they are less drying. Choose one designed for your unique skin and use it regularly but not too frequently.
How Can I Get Glowing Sensitive Skin?
Yes, sometimes it can seem like glowing skin is elusive if you’re very sensitive. However, there is hope with the right skin care routine and products! Incorporate the tips below to help keep your skin healthy, glowing, and hopefully irritation free.
- Use gentle skincare products to ensure they don’t strip natural oils and dehydrate the skin.
- While external hydration definitely helps, nothing can beat the importance of drinking lots of water. Internal hydration will give your skin a natural glow.
- Moisturize regularly and frequently! This will prevent the formation of any dry skin patches, and a soothing moisturizer can even help minimize irritation and redness.
- Keep track of what you put inside your body. Health is wealth, and your body responds to the different things you eat in different ways. Track and adjust according!
- Guard both your mental and physical health. External factors like stress, smoking, lack of sleep, pollution, and allergies can leave the skin dull and lifeless no matter how many products you use.
Remembering that taking a holistic approach or by visiting a dermatologist to heal sensitive skin often yields the best results.
Sources:
https://coveteur.com/2020/12/04/inflammaging-skincare-tips/
https://www.healthline.com/health/skin-disorders/sensitive-skin
https://thebeautydirection.com/9-best-natural-ingredients-for-sensitive-skin/
https://www.curejoy.com/content/benefits-of-avocado-for-skin/
https://www.healthline.com/health/photosensitivity
http://www.justaboutskin.com/anti-aging-skin-care-guide/inflammation-theory-of-aging/
We aim to provide you with the most honest and credible information possible. This article was reviewed for accuracy by The Honest Team and its internal technical experts.
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