Think you might be one of the millions of women across the world who suffer from sensitive skin ? Take a look at our overview of some of the most common symptoms, as well as expert dermatologist Dr. Nina Roos’ do’s and don’ts for looking after easily upset skin.
Sensitive skin: recognizing common symptoms
If you’ve often wondered whether or not your skin is considered ‘sensitive’, it might be worth taking a look at some of the most common symptoms. These can be visible (i.e. redness or blotchiness) or ‘neurosensory’ (i.e. hotness, itchiness, tightness or tingling). Factors triggering their appearance vary from woman to woman, and can be due to a combination of genetics, environmental factors and/or reactions to specific ingredients. As well as these uncomfortable reactions, woman who describe their skin as “very sensitive” are far more likely to feel painful or irritated skin when exposed to triggering factors.
Will I always have sensitive skin?
Not necessarily. Symptoms of sensitive skin can come and go throughout our lives, as well as appearing on a temporary, recurring or prolonged basis, with skin generally becoming less sensitive as we age. However, even if you’ve never previously suffered from symptoms linked to sensitive skin, it’s important to stay on top of any changes in your lifestyle or environment that may have an effect on skin. Moving to a city with high levels of pollution, sudden changes to your diet and even exposure to extreme heat or cold in summer or winter can all provoke reactions in otherwise normal skin.
Do’s and don’ts for taking care of sensitive skin
Very dry skin is known for being particularly prone to hypersensitivity, but did you know that applying too many products can be damaging to your skin’s epidermal layers? Talking about the key steps to looking after sensitive skin, dermatologist Dr. Nina Roos stresses the importance of a streamlined skincare routine: “The simpler your skincare regimen is, the better - and try not to chop and change products too abruptly.” When using exfoliants specifically formulated for sensitive skin, it’s best to scrub at the end of the day, as removing the epidermis’ outer layer of cells can leave skin feeling extra-sensitive to sunlight and UV rays. Finally, hydration is essential when it comes to getting the most out of your skincare. After cleansing, Nina recommends showing your skin’s outer layers some love with a spritz of a hydrating mist to soften skin before applying moisturizer. A liberal spray of Vichy Mineralizing Water following by a rich, hydrating night cream = a foolproof recipe for baby-soft skin in the morning!
