Sensitive skin

People having sensitive skin face many problems. Since sensitive skin is a fine-textured skin, it promptly reacts to certain irritants such as detergents, cosmetics, alcohol and environmental factors like extreme hot and cold weather conditions, rain and excessive sunlight. In medical terms, sensitive skin is known as eczema and atopic dermatitis because it is usually dry, delicate and prone to allergic reactions. Sensitive skin cannot be placed in any particular category as all types of skin can be categorized as sensitive.

You should use suitable sunscreen lotions or creams to protect your sensitive skin. Make sure the skin care products you use do not contain potential like fragrance or PABA (para aminobenzoic acid) sunscreens. Always use mild baby soap to rinse your face followed by pat dry with soft towel and apply homemade moisturizing lotion on your face before going to bed. Homemade moisturizers contain natural ingredients that are less likely to spark off reaction than those available in the market.

Diet for sensitive skin

People having sensitive skin should be selective in eating foods. Don’t eat foods containing hot spices, curries or peppers. Consumption of plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables keep your skin healthy. Don’t consume hot foods and liquids because they can cause painful flushing of the skin. Similarly, avoid high doses of Niacin (Vitamin B3) as it releases histamines to the skin causing vasodilation.

Symptoms of sensitive skin

Dry and itchy skin

Irritation caused by skincare products

Diffuse redness or blotchiness

Irritation caused by clothes washed in detergents with artificial colors and/or fragrances

Overreacts to irritating activities such as shaving, cleansing, waxing, etc.

Common irritants to sensitive skin

Fragrances and color additives in detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheet can cause skin irritation.

Wool and latex gloves can cause temporary skin irritation.

Excess medication can increase sensitivity of the skin.

Stress also causes skin sensitivity.

Heat, sunburn, extreme cold and windburn can irritate the skin.

Shaving, waxing and laser treatment may induce skin sensitivity.

Some preservatives used in skincare products are harmful for sensitive skin.

Creams or lotions containing surfactants can irritate the skin.

Bleaches and whitening agents used in laundry soaps.

How to reduce skin sensitivity

Your skin should be moisturized regularly. And if you want to apply a makeup, then always use skin toning sprays so that your face could remain moistened and your makeup may stay smooth for longer time.

You must be aware that your skin needs protection especially when you want to wash kitchen utensils or clean your house and hence wear gloves. In case, you have rubber or plastic gloves, then remove them at certain intervals so that you may dry your hands by gently wiping the sweat. Sweat can sometimes cause irritation to your skin. During winter, use gloves lined with cotton.

Avoid woolen clothes and wear cotton clothes because they are the least irritating.

Limit your shower and bath time and use only tepid water. Always apply suitable moisturizer after taking bath.

Use homemade moisturizer because they contain natural ingredients and are least irritating.

Scratching or rubbing the skin causes its surface to break and thus allow bacteria to develop rapidly.

Avoid smoking because it dries and irritate skin.

Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin and keep it healthy.

Prefer shaving cream containing moisturizer or shaving gel so that your skin may not feel irritating affect. Also ensure that you do not shave in opposite direction.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies contain natural ingredients and are better for your skin and less likely to cause a sensitive skin reaction. Following are some special sensitive skin care methods:

Mix grapefruit and oatmeal to make a facial exfoliate.