Skin sensitivity can happen to all of us at any time and can be triggered by anything. Any skin type can experience sensitivity, from oily and acne-prone, to dry and mature. It’s usually a symptom of another condition. You may not even know you have sensitive skin until you have a bad reaction to a cosmetic product, like soap, moisturiser, scrub or makeup. No matter what the long term skin goals are, when sensitivity strikes, it takes priority and must be treated first before any other skin concern.
What Causes Skin Sensitivity?
Quite honestly, anything can cause skin sensitivity. Too much scrubbing, too much retinol, too many products, and using the wrong products can all cause skin sensitivity. Hormonal changes like pregnancy and the menopause, can also cause skin sensitivity.
How To Care for Sensitive Skin?
No matter what other skin concerns we may have, when sensitivity strikes, it should always take priority. There is no magic pill to get rid of sensitive skin, but there are solid moves to make our face freak out a whole lot less.
Here are the tricks every girl with sensitive skin should know:
- Skincare Detox – Strip back on skincare products. Some times we can be using too many products of various strengths and it causes a reaction. When this happens, scale back to just the basics (a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and SPF) for a few days to one week, then slowly reintroduce a few products one at a time to pinpoint any irritants. Patch test anything new on the inner arm first or at the back of the neck to determine if your skin is reactive.
- Double Cleanse – Inflammation and clogged pores can be caused from incomplete cleansing. Thorough cleansing, particularly in the evening is fundamental to achieving healthy, balanced skin.
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Christina Maria Kyriakidou Sensitive Skin Fragrance Free – Avoid products with synthetic fragrances. Also, steer clear of anything with lavender in as it can cause allergens. Oxybenzone and Avobenzone found in chemical sunscreens, have been shown to cause allergic reactions. Opt for physical blockers such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide instead.
- Build Up Your Retinoid Tolerance Slowly – Retinol is an amazing and key ingredient to fighting wrinkles, but using the wrong type and/or the wrong strength can make skin very sensitive. Start on a low percentage and a two-to-three times per week and build up slowly.
- Go Grain Free – Physical exfoliators can scratch and irritate the skin, try gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) formulas instead but only on the nights, retinol is not being used.
- Stay Out Of The Sun – Too much heat and sun damages skin cells. Wear sunglasses and use high SPF. Ultrasun SPF 50+ is my sun protection of choice.
- Use A Natural Toner – Do not use toners with alcohol. Fresh rose water or natural infused toners are much better for the skin.
- Keep Hands Clean – It’s easy to transfer bacteria to problem skin and make skin worse. Try to avoid touching your face and was hands frequently.
If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, please send me a message.
