What’s sensitive skin? First of all, sensitive skin doesn’t just refer to eczema. It can also be caused by reactions to harsh soaps, laundry detergents, fabric softeners and perfumes. Sensitive skin generally means that your skin becomes red, irritated, or inflamed at the slightest provocation; many people with sensitive skin have broken out in rashes after using too much soap or after washing their hair with harsh products. Even products that are labelled as hypoallergenic can cause problems for people with sensitive skin.
What is sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin is often dry, red, irritated and prone to breakouts. It can be a bit tricky to identify sensitive skin because it can look the same as other types of skin on the surface. There are some telltale signs though; if you’re always breaking out in new places after shaving or your skin feels tight and uncomfortable even when moisturised, this could be indicative of sensitive skin. You might also notice that over time, certain products will irritate your skin more than others. The best creams for sensitive skin have a variety of ingredients designed to work with different sensitivities, so find one that matches yours!
Causes of sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is typically caused by irritants like fragrance, alcohol, and chemicals. Many people with sensitive skin also have other skin issues like rosacea, acne, or eczema. The best way to care for sensitive skin is to avoid ingredients that cause irritation and find products without fragrances or alcohol. Use a gentle cleanser that doesn’t contain surfactants (they can cause sensitivity). Use a moisturiser with ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil that are gentle on the skin.
Types of products to avoid
It is not always easy to find the right products for sensitive skin, and some products can aggravate it even more. Avoid these types of products if you have sensitive skin: perfumed or scented products, alcohol-based toners and lotions, fragranced soaps or cleansers, and anything with artificial colours or dyes. Instead, look for products that are fragrance free, soap-free or low lathering.
Natural moisturisers are also a good option as they are gentler on your skin than synthetic ones. Be aware that natural moisturisers often do not provide as much protection against moisture loss as synthetics do and should be used in combination with a separate natural sunscreen.
Tips for finding the right products
When buying skin care products, it can be difficult to know what your skin type is and what products you should use. When shopping for sensitive skin, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier.
- Look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe and chamomile. These ingredients will help bring down any redness or inflammation that your sensitive skin might have.
- Don’t buy anything without knowing what the product does or how it works. Read the label carefully and look out for ingredients that may irritate your skin such as sulphates, fragrances, dyes, alcohols etc.
- Do not rely on free samples in stores as these may contain harmful additives that could trigger an allergic reaction in people with sensitive skin.
Hydration for sensitive skin
Hydration is the key to healthy, radiant skin no matter what your skin type. But sensitive skin can sometimes be tricky to hydrate. Here are a few tips on how to best look after your sensitive skin and keep it looking great.
Your skin needs moisture to look plump and healthy, while dry skin tends to show visible signs of ageing more easily. If you live in a climate with high humidity, make sure you drink plenty of water in order to maintain hydrated skin. However, if you live in an area with lower humidity or an air conditioner that dries out the air, make sure to moisturise regularly – this will protect your skin from feeling tight and uncomfortable as well as keep it soft and supple.
Water intake varies per person and the weather; however, we recommend drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Water helps to flush toxins out of your body which means fewer acne breakouts, so drinking enough ensures that your skin remains clear for good!
