Please, I need a moisturizer for my skin and a serum for my skin? However…Do not forget, my skin is sensitive! Give me products that are suitable for it…This is likely the most common phrase spoken by individuals with sensitive skin to salespeople in stores or when discussing product recommendations with friends. But what do people with sensitive skin actually struggle with? What happens when they have allergic reactions to certain products? Does their skin type require special treatment?
Let’s explore sensitive skin together, learn about its key characteristics, and answer the most frequently asked questions regarding it…
How do I Know That I Have Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin is characterized by several symptoms that differentiate it from other skin types, including:
- Red patches and rough areas on the skin.
- Itching sensations.
- Rashes.
- Bruising on the skin.
- Cracks and flaking in the skin.
- Mild swelling in the skin.
- Pimples.
- Rough and wrinkled skin texture.
- Open sores or yellow crusts on the skin.
Key Characteristics of Sensitive Skin
What are the characteristics that distinguish sensitive skin from other skin types?
- When showering with hot water, or consuming spicy foods, the skin will be red and irritated.
- Itching sensations and persistent tightness in the skin.
- Chronic dryness, requiring intensive moisturizing.
- Burning sensations on the skin.
- Sensitive skin is often oily in the summer and dry in the winter.
What Are the Irritants for Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin is affected by surrounding conditions and certain products, leading to various changes that can cause discomfort for those who have it. Some of these irritants:
- Exposure to hot water.
- Cosmetic, cleaning, and soap products made from chemicals or fragrances.
- Accessories made from specific metals such as latex and nickel.
- Consumption of certain foods, such as dairy products, eggs, and nuts.
- Environmental conditions like humidity, extreme temperatures and sweating.
Read also: 4 Effective Solutions to Help Treat Keratosis Pilaris
How to Take Care of Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin requires adherence to certain guidelines that can help soothe it and reduce irritation. These guidelines include:
- Addressing the underlying cause of skin irritation and avoiding it.
- Using gentle moisturizers regularly.
- Avoiding harsh & chemical exfoliants.
- Consulting a dermatologist or skincare specialist for recommendations on products suitable for sensitive skin that do not cause irritation.
- Minimizing the number of products used on the face.
- Identifying triggers for skin sensitivity and avoiding them as much as possible.
- Consistently applying sunscreen and reapplying it throughout the day.
- Using products that contain soothing ingredients.
- Removing makeup before going to bed.
- Cleansing the skin twice a day.
- Keeping the skin cool and avoiding excessive sun exposure.
- Drinking plenty of water.
Most FAQs regarding Sensitive Skin
Do women suffer from sensitive skin more than men?
Yes, women are more prone to sensitive skin than men. Global studies have found that approximately 50-61% of women experience sensitive skin compared to 30-44% of men. This difference is attributed to the nature of women’s skin, which is generally thinner than men’s, in addition to hormonal changes that women undergo, the effects of hair removal, and their use of cosmetic products & makeup.
Can sensitive skin be treated?
No, sensitive skin is simply a type of skin that its owner can manage and reduce irritation only. There is no permanent cure, but the health of the skin can be improved to make it stronger and less sensitive through specialized care, which a dermatologist can help you with.
Products that should be avoided by individuals with sensitive skin
To prevent irritation of sensitive skin and keep it calm, it is essential to avoid its irritants:
- Fragrances.
- Parabens, which are derived from alcohol and acid and are found in many cosmetic products.
- Alcohol, as it can cause dryness and inflammation of the skin.
- Sulfates, which are components in many skin cleansing products.
- Dyes, which should be avoided in both skincare & cosmetic products.
- Citrus, as they can cause skin inflammation due to their vitamin C content.
- Chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV (ultraviolet) rays and release them as heat after a chemical reaction with the skin, making them particularly harmful.
- Retinol, it is advised not to use products containing retinol, and if used, ensure that the concentration is below 0.04%.
- Exfoliants, using exfoliants can lead to immediate skin inflammation, so it is best to consult a dermatologist to choose a gentle exfoliant.
- Tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and lavender oil.
How many times should sensitive skin be cleaned each day?
Twice a day, as one study found this to be the best frequency for cleansing skin of all types. It has been shown that skin washed once in the morning and once in the evening feels calmer, experiences less redness & irritation and is healthier compared to skin that is washed only once.
Can stress affect sensitive skin?
Yes, as stress levels increase in a person, their body releases cortisol in bigger amounts, which in turn heightens the skin’s sensitivity & reaction to pollutants and surrounding factors.
Can I use hot water on sensitive skin?
No, it is preferable to avoid bathing in hot water as it removes essential oils from the skin and harms the skin’s natural barrier. Instead, using warm water is recommended as it helps retain skin moisture and keeps pores smaller, which specialists suggest for all skin types. Additionally, sensitive skin is easily affected by various external factors, so caution should be exercised regarding the temperature of the water used.
When Should You Immediately Consult a Dermatologist About Sensitive Skin?
As previously mentioned regarding sensitive skin, it presents with a variety of symptoms, but certain cases & symptoms require immediate medical intervention, such as:
- Continuous deterioration of the skin.
- The appearance of new and bothersome symptoms on the skin.
- Severe itching that does not respond to any treatments.
- Severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face, throat, or lips, difficulty breathing, or widespread rashes.
- Feelings of faintness or dizziness.
Different skin types require significant care. What about sensitive skin, which needs specific treatment and factors to enhance its health?
You can find all the answers to your questions and inquiries on our website: dradas.com
If you are experiencing skin issues and need to establish a treatment plan with a specialist, contact Dr. Mohannad Adas’s dermatology clinic now at +962799377600 and book your appointment now!
