Sensitive Skin
WHAT IS SENSITIVE SKIN?
Sensitive skin is a very common skin condition that affects 60% of men and women, where the skin is more prone to reacting to external triggers, such as the wind, heat, sun or by topical products. If you have sensitive skin, you may find that it easily becomes irritated, red, and itchy. It is caused by the nerve endings in our skin becoming irritated, and this occurs when the skins barrier is weakened by certain factors.
Many people with sensitive skin can be reactive to soaps, detergents, dyes, and fragrances, so it is important to avoid any skincare product with these, as this could be what is causing the reaction. If you continually have dry, red, flaky, or itchy skin, it is important to look at your skincare routine, to see if there could be something in there that is causing a reaction.
Naturally Sensitive
Although, many people with sensitive skin believe that they were born with it, there is only a small percentage that is actually caused by genetics. If you have a genetic predisposition for skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis, and you have sensitive skin, it is likely that it is caused by genetics.
Reactive
This type of sensitive skin is more common in those with lighter skin tones, and it becomes very red and inflamed from using skin-care products, often forming papules or pustules where the irritant touched the skin. This type of sensitive skin can be easier to overcome, as just avoiding the irritant all together will aid symptoms.
Environmental
This type of sensitivity is caused by the environment that you live in, including the sun exposure, air pollution and cigarette smoke. By moving to a new highly polluted area, you may notice your skin sensitivity increase, and by introducing products that contain antioxidants, you can combat the effects of pollution and free radicals.
Thin Skin
As we age, our collagen and elastin naturally begin to decline, causing thinner skin. Thinner skin appears redder when stimulated by external factors, such as the environment, heat, or the sun. Skincare products that include hyaluronic acid and peptides can help to boost the moisture and restore the skins natural barrier to reduce the appearance of redness.
The DOs for Sensitive Skin
- DO wash your face every morning, evening and after exercise – avoid scrubbing, or over-washing the skin, as this may irritate it.
- DO choose skin care products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, as these will not clog your pores.
- DO use a gentle, foaming face wash to prevent an even further increase in oil production and irritation.
- DO choose products that contain niacinamide and L-carnitine (an amino acid) to help manage oil production.
- DO avoid using alcohol-based cleansers, and ingredients such as cocoa butter, petroleum jelly and silicone, as these will clog your skin.
- DO apply moisturiser – just because you have oily skin, it still needs hydration.
- DO wear SPF 50 sunscreen – 365 days a year, to prevent damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
- DO use blotting papers if your skin is oily, to remove excess oil throughout the day.
- DO eat a healthy diet that includes oily foods like salmon, tuna, and pumpkin seeds, as these can regulate the hormone that controls oil production.
- DO always remove your makeup and sunscreen at the end of the day, as leaving it on can cause blocked pores.
Skincare ingredients for sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is caused by the skin’s barrier being weakened by certain triggers and ingredients, and so the best skin care ingredients to use are ones that seal moisture in and replenish and support the skins natural barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid
This very gentle acid will help lock in moisture in the skin, and it is gentle enough for even those with the most sensitive skin.
Ceramides
Ceramides are lipids already present in the skin and they make up part of the skin barrier. When this barrier is damaged, it can cause sensitivity. When you incorporate ceramides into your skin care routine, you can support your skin barrier while it repairs itself, and in turn, stop sensitivity and irritation.
Sun Protection
People with sensitive skin may find that even the smallest of sun exposure can trigger redness and irritation. By applying a sunscreen, ideally SPF 50, you can help protect your skin from flare-ups, as well as reduce your risk of cancer. Although there are many types of sunscreens, it is important to remember that chemical sunscreens have a high chance of causing irritation to your sensitive skin, and so we recommend using a zinc oxide sunscreen to lower the chance of irritation.
Glycerin
This ingredient is a humectant that attracts and holds water to moisturise the skin, this ingredient is considered safe and unlikely to irritate the skin.
Our Recommendations
Although just because you have sensitive skin, it does not mean you cannot mix it up, and try out the latest trends. However, a good skin care routine of a cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen will give you a strong foundation to support your skin barrier.
Cleanser
SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser Cream – this beautiful cream cleanser is specifically for sensitive skin, as it gently removes excess impurities and oils, without drying or stripping the skin. This cleanser is designed to refresh, soothe and calm the skin, without causing irritation.
Moisturiser
Environ Vita-Complex Super Moisturiser – this luxurious, antioxidant filled moisturiser easily absorbs into the skin, leaving it hydrated and supple. It is perfect to assist soothing sensitive skin, ease any skin irritations you may be experiencing and protect the skin from environmental irritants.
Sun Protection
Heliocare 360 Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF 50 – this light, breathable fluid made using mineral-only filters absorbs quickly into the skin with a silky finish. It is fragrance free, and it has been tested on the most sensitive skin, making it a perfect addition to your sensitive skin care routine.
Our Recommendations
Although just because you have sensitive skin, it does not mean you cannot mix it up, and try out the latest trends. However, a good skin care routine of a cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen will give you a strong foundation to support your skin barrier.
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