Everyone has their own skin type, and every skin type has its own characteristics. Sensitive skin requires special care. We'll tell you everything you need to know to pamper it. 

How to recognize the signs of sensitive skin? 

Unlike normal skin, sensitive skin reacts excessively or abnormally to external or internal stimuli... Its tolerance threshold is extremely low, and it can easily become irritated, red, itchy, burning, or stinging. People with sensitive skin are more prone to having dry skin, reactive skin, or oily skin. Acne, allergies, and all kinds of rashes can be part of their daily life. The causes of this sensitivity are varied: genetic factors are of course one factor, but so are hormonal changes, allergic reactions, the use of harsh cosmetic products or unsuitable skincare, excessive exposure to the sun or extreme weather conditions! 

It is important to treat reactive skin gently by avoiding irritating products and using gentle skincare products specially formulated for this skin type to prevent 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 this sounds like you, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist who can offer you a lifestyle routine adapted to the sensitivity of your skin barrier. 

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 from your family. 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.
• The environment. Environmental conditions such as the sun, wind, cold, pollution, and humidity can affect the skin and make it more sensitive.
• Skincare products. The use of harsh skincare products containing irritating or allergenic ingredients can cause skin sensitivity.
• Stress. Emotional and physical stress can affect skin health and cause increased sensitivity.

What beauty routine should you adopt for sensitive skin?

When you have sensitive skin, it is important to follow a gentle and adapted skincare routine to minimize irritation and prevent skin reactions. Here are a few tips to remember and apply to ensure a skincare routine adapted to sensitive skin. 

Gentle skin cleansing. 

Use a gentle, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cleanser that does not contain irritating ingredients such as alcohol, sulfates, or essential oils. Avoid abrasive or exfoliating cleansers that can worsen skin sensitivity.

Daily skin hydration. 

Just like with the cleanser, use a lightweight, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer specially formulated for sensitive skin. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, glycerin, avocado oil, or rosehip oil contain soothing active ingredients that help to deeply soothe and hydrate sensitive skin. Also remember to drink plenty of water to hydrate your body from the inside. That'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 SPF 50 sun protection that is fragrance-free and specially formulated for sensitive skin.

Avoid irritating products on the skin.

Avoid skincare products containing irritating ingredients such as fragrances, dyes, sulfates, and alcohol. Also avoid those containing acids such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which are a bit too harsh for the increased sensitivity of your protective barrier... 

Can you apply makeup to sensitive skin? 

The answer is yes! But you must take all the necessary precautions to avoid potential allergies (sensitive skin is much more prone to them), irritation, or other unwanted skin rashes. The choice of makeup products must be made consciously, and the list of ingredients should always be carefully examined to avoid unpleasant surprises. 

Choose gentle makeup products specially formulated for sensitive skin. BIO and Vegan brands are generally ideal for applying makeup to sensitive skin. 

Before applying foundation, tinted serum, or blush powder to your face, make sure to perform an allergy test. Apply a small amount of the product to 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 when you have sensitive skin (the same goes for mature skin). 

What is the ideal skincare for sensitive skin? 

Sensitive skin loves natural skincare. If this is you, treat yourself to a moment of softness at least once a week by wrapping your face in a plant oil mask. Here are a few 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 and 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 replace your day and night creams with a simple treatment oil (cold-pressed); oils are true gems for caring for sensitive skin and can be easily combined with your eye contour serum.

The ultimate tip? Just like your body, love your skin and show it. Treat it gently with tender gestures, choose a healthy diet adapted to your needs, and massage it from time to time. Whether it is dry, oily, tight, or acne-prone... be proud of it, and of yourself, quite simply. This is by far the best beauty advice to give and follow!