Sensitive skin: Gentle skin care

Sensitive skin: Gentle skin care

Whether reactive or allergy-prone, certain types of skin are more sensitive than others. This issue requires special attention and specially designed products.

Symptoms

The telltale signs of sensitive skin are as follows:

  • Redness and irritation
  • Flaking
  • A burning sensation and tightness
  • Itchiness.

Causes

In most cases of sensitive skin, the natural barrier that protects the epidermis from external irritants is deficient. In fact, it is weaker due to an excessive loss of moisture, making it easier for irritating products to penetrate the skin. That being said, there are also many factors that can exacerbate reaction-prone skin:

  • Sudden changes in temperature – it disrupts the production of natural oils.
  • Stress – the hormones released by the body at times of stress can cause redness.
  • Pollution and cigarette smoke.
  • Excessive cleansing — it strips the skinof its natural oils.
  • Poorly suited or irritating products, for example those containing ingredients that are drying (alcohol), oil-absorbing (silicon, clay) or anti-aging (fruit acids, retinol).
  • Alcohol, coffee and spices.

Solutions

Gentle cleansing

Take it easy! That is the motto for sensitive skin.

  • Avoid scrubs and masks, since these tend to further irritate the skin.
  • Select fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products that contain gentle cleansers and moisturizing agents, such as thermal water and vaseline.
  • Choose rinse-free cleansing milk and remove it with a cotton pad sprayed with thermal water, being sure to wipe away all traces of the product.

Of course, even sensitive skin needs to be cleansed, but always in moderation: less is better.

Protect it from external irritants and moisturize

  • Always use sun protection. 
  • Sensitive skin must constantly be rehydrated. Choose moisturizing products that contain the following ingredients:
    - Shea butter
    - Aloes
    - Glycerin.

And if you find a product that suits you, stick with it!

What else could the redness mean?

Facial redness and tightness may be caused by another, more serious skin problem such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis. If your symptoms persist even with a good skin care routine, see a health professional.

If you have any questions regarding skin care, consult our dermo-cosmetics consultants! They can help you select the products that suit you best.

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