How to take care of sensitive skin?
How to take care of sensitive skin?
Coralie Techer
Everyone has their own skin type, and each skin type has its own specificities. Sensitive skin requires special care. We tell you everything you need to know to pamper it.
How to recognize the signs of sensitive skin?
Unlike normal skin, sensitive skin is skin that reacts excessively or abnormally to external or internal stimuli... Its tolerance threshold is extremely low, it can easily become irritated, red, itch, burn or sting. People with sensitive skin are more prone to having dry skin, reactive skin or oily skin . Acne, allergies and rashes of all kinds can be their daily lot. The causes of this sensitivity are diverse, there is of course the genetic factor that comes into play but also hormonal changes, allergic reactions, the use of aggressive cosmetic products or unsuitable care, excessive exposure to the sun or extreme weather conditions!
It is important to treat reactive skin gently by avoiding irritating products and using gentle care products, specially formulated for this type of skin and avoiding feelings of discomfort. Products containing natural ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, sweet almond oil or argan oil are very beneficial for soothing and protecting sensitive skin types. If you recognize yourself there, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist who will be able to offer you a lifestyle routine adapted to the sensitivity of your skin barrier.
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Factors that can affect skin sensitivity
Skin sensitivity (and therefore skin discomfort) can be influenced by several factors. It is important to identify them to counteract external aggressions.
- Genetic factors. Skin sensitivity can be inherited in families. People with a family history of sensitive skin may be more likely to develop sensitive skin.
- Hormonal changes. Hormonal fluctuations can affect the skin and cause increased sensitivity. For example, women may have more sensitive skin during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
- Allergies. Allergic reactions to products, ingredients, or environmental allergens can cause skin irritation and sensitivity.
- Environment. Environmental conditions such as sun, wind, cold, pollution and humidity can affect the skin and make it more sensitive.
- Skin care products. Using harsh skin care products that contain irritating or allergenic ingredients can cause skin sensitivity.
- Stress. Emotional and physical stress can affect skin health and cause increased sensitivity.
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What beauty routine should you adopt for sensitive skin?
When you have sensitive skin, it is important to follow a gentle and appropriate skin care routine to minimize irritation and prevent skin reactions. Here are some tips to remember and apply to ensure a skin care routine that is suitable for sensitive skin.
Gently cleansing the skin.
Use a gentle, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cleanser that doesn't contain irritating ingredients like alcohol, sulfates, or essential oils. Avoid abrasive or exfoliating cleansers that can aggravate skin sensitivity.
Daily hydration of the skin.
Just like with your cleanser, use a lightweight, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer that is specially formulated for sensitive skin. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, glycerin or avocado oil, rosehip oil, whose soothing active ingredients help to soothe and deeply moisturize sensitive skin. Also, remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate your body from the inside out. It’s the ultimate beauty secret!
Use sun protection.
Sensitive skin is more likely than combination or normal skin to react to sun exposure. It is important to use an SPF 50 sunscreen that is fragrance-free and specially formulated for sensitive skin.
Avoid irritating products on the skin.
Avoid skin care products that contain irritating ingredients such as fragrances, dyes, sulfates, and alcohol. Also avoid those containing acids such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which are a little too harsh for the increased sensitivity of your protective barrier...
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Can you apply makeup to sensitive skin?
The answer is yes! But, you have to take all the precautions to avoid possible allergies (sensitive skin is very prone to them), irritations or other unwelcome skin rashes. The choice of makeup products must be made consciously, and the list of ingredients always deciphered to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Choose gentle makeup products that are specially formulated for sensitive skin. Organic and Vegan brands are generally ideal for applying makeup to sensitive skin.
Before applying foundation, tinted serum or blush powder to your face, be sure to do an allergy test. Place a little product on the crook of your arm for example (a sensitive and reactive area). If you notice a reaction, rinse immediately with clean water and soap and skip this product...
Always make sure to remove your makeup before going to bed. This is a mandatory step for all skin types, but even more so for sensitive skin (this also applies to mature skin).
What are the ideal care options for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin loves natural skincare. If this is your case, treat yourself to a moment of softness at least once a week by wrapping your face in a vegetable oil mask. Here are some that are ideal for sensitive skin:
Sweet Almond Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, it is soothing and moisturizing, which can help relieve dry, irritated skin.
Argan Oil: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, it can help soothe and protect sensitive skin.
Jojoba Oil: Very similar to the natural oil produced by the skin, it can help reduce irritation and moisturize sensitive skin.
Camellia Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, it is very gentle and can help nourish and protect sensitive skin.
Calendula Oil: Obtained from marigold flowers, it is soothing and anti-inflammatory, which can help reduce irritation and inflammation in sensitive skin.
You can switch your day and night creams for a simple treatment oil (cold pressed), oils are real gems for the care of sensitive skin and can be combined without problem with your eye contour serum .
The ultimate advice? As with your body, love your skin and let it know it. Treat it gently with tender gestures, opt for a healthy diet adapted to your needs, massage it from time to time. Whether it is dry, oily, tight, acneic... be proud of it, of yourself quite simply. This is most certainly the best beauty advice to give and apply!