What is the cause of sensitive skin?
It isn't easy to find the exact cause of sensitive skin, but genetics does play a significant role. People can also experience sensitive skin when there are environmental and weather changes. For example, people who have eczema, rosacea, etc., fall into the category of having sensitive skin.
Symptoms of sensitive skin
- Experience tingling or burning sensation when trying new or harsh skincare products
- Skin might be red or break out into a rash
- Easily irritated by specific ingredients or new products
Pros
- None
Cons
- Easily sensitive to new products or ingredients
- Difficult to find products that work for you
- May feel discomfort for several days after having an initial reaction
Tip #1: Use a calming face mask or sheet mask
Use face masks or sheet masks that have soothing ingredients. Some ingredients that soothe irritated skin and are gentle include rose, aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, green tea, etc. Also, it's essential to understand your specific skin type because some ingredients may react badly with your sensitive skin, even though it works for most sensitive skin types. Everyone is different, and you should research each products' ingredients beforehand.
Tip #2: Do a patch test on your face before complete application of products
Every sensitive skin type is different, and it's important to patch test every product before applying it to your face. First, apply a small amount of the product behind your ear or inside your elbow to conduct a patch test. Then after 24 hours, assess the area, and if there are no signs of irritation, you are good to go! But if there are signs of irritation, do not use that product on your face.
Tip #3: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser or micellar water
Use a gentle cleanser that won't strip away natural oils from your face or cause any irritation. Use cleansers with soothing ingredients for your face, such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide, etc.
Tip #4: Choose products that are fragrance-free or have no artificial colors
Unfortunately for people with sensitive skin, you should avoid fragrances and artificial coloring in skincare products. Synthetic or natural fragrances can lead to adverse skin reactions such as redness, acne, and inflammation. Artificial coloring can lead to blocked pores, irritated skin, and inflammation. So any skincare products with fragrance or artificial colors should be automatically crossed out and avoided at all times!
Tip #5: Keep your skincare routine simple
Don't include too many steps in your skincare routine, and keep your skincare routine simple. The more skincare steps that you incorporate into your routine, the more likely one of your products may cause an adverse reaction. It's best to treat your skin gently and only use the products you need daily. A nice simple routine looks something like this: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen during the day. And during the night, makeup remover, cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and face oil (optional).
Comment below and let us know your favorite tips for sensitive skin!