If you have sensitive skin, exfoliation can be a tricky business. You’re in desperate need of gentle exfoliation to get rid of dead skin cells, but you don’t want to irritate your skin with harsh ingredients and scrubbing. Here are some great tips on how to exfoliate your sensitive skin without causing irritation.
Skin Types
Different skin types require different exfoliation methods. You should consult your dermatologist for the best method of exfoliating your skin if you have sensitive skin or other skin conditions, but there are some general rules of thumb.
First, it’s important to understand that exfoliation is necessary for healthy skin and that exfoliating too much can dry out your skin and cause irritation regardless of the type of skin you have.
Why is my skin so sensitive?
Some people are born with sensitive skin, while others develop sensitivity later in life. The causes of sensitive skin can vary and may be due to the following:
- Allergies: sensitivities can be caused by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain cosmetics.
- Contact dermatitis: sensitive skin may result from a reaction to contact with an allergen that has been absorbed through the skin. Cosmetics (i.eperfumes) and jewellery have also been known to cause reactions in some individuals.
In addition, there is also a genetic component to skin sensitivity that makes you more likely to develop it. Regardless of its source, though, sensitive skin will require special care and treatments so it doesn’t get irritated easily. Luckily for those who are hypersensitive about their body care routines, there are ways you can exfoliate without risking any irritation!
What causes sensitivity?
People with sensitive skin tend to have a genetic predisposition. They are also more likely to develop sensitivity as they age and their skin becomes thinner and more fragile. A person’s sensitivity can also be caused by an overproduction of sebum, a condition called seborrheic dermatitis. The most common treatments for sensitivity are topical medications, moisturisers, and emollients, but many people find that these treatments irritate their skin even more! That’s why it is important to exfoliate your sensitive skin in the right way without causing irritation.
When Should I Exfoliate?
The frequency of your exfoliation will depend on the sensitivity of your skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may only want to exfoliate once or twice a week. However, if you have normal or dry skin, you may be able to exfoliate up to four times a week. Exfoliating before applying other products like moisturiser can help get rid of dead skin cells that interfere with product absorption. It also helps remove excess oil from the skin so your moisturiser is more effective.
The Best Way to Exfoliate For Sensitive Skin
When it comes to scrubbing, don’t overdo it! You’re only going for gentle exfoliation and not a deep cleanse. Start by applying a small amount of scrub onto wet skin and use circular motions for about 30 seconds before rinsing off thoroughly with water. Rinse your face twice to make sure all the dead skin cells have been removed. Once your face is dry, apply moisturiser or lotion as usual.
Ingredients To Avoid in an Exfoliant If You Have Sensitive Skin
Some ingredients that are often found in exfoliants can cause skin irritation if you have sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to use a gentle exfoliant with natural ingredients like sugar or jojoba beads. Avoid using chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA), as well as scrubs containing microbeads. These types of exfoliants can cause irritation and redness for those who have sensitive skin. Chemical peels may also be too harsh for those with sensitive skin.
Things You Can Do to Reduce Inflammation Around the Face (And Even Out Discoloration)
There are many things you can do to reduce inflammation around the face and even discoloration. Here are some of the most effective ways:
- Drink plenty of water: Dehydration can lead to redness, so drinking enough water is important.
- Use a gentle cleanser: Choose a sensitive skin cleanser made for your skin type – this will be gentler on your skin, reducing chances of irritation.
