What You Can Do to Prevent Sensitive Skin Irritation
Studies have been done that indicate almost half of the population in the United States, both men, and women, have sensitive or very sensitive skin. Based on the results of one study done by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a couple of factors were most commonly associated with sensitive skin, including:
- Dry skin
- Fair phototype
- Reactivity to climatic and environmental factors
- Cosmetics
The study also showed that most Americans suffering from sensitive skin seek the help of a dermatologist to manage it. This is understandable considering a person who has sensitive skin will likely want to do what they can to avoid flare-ups, which can lead to inflammation, redness, unsightliness, and even pain.
Often, the term sensitive skin is seen as its own condition. The reality is that sensitive skin is not a disease that occurs on its own. Symptoms associated with sensitive skin come from another underlying condition. It is comforting to know that for most individuals, skin that is more fragile and reactive to external factors will rarely be a serious health issue. Most symptoms can be managed easily with some changes to the products you use, modifications to your skincare routine, and even with lifestyle adjustments.
How Can You Care For Your Sensitive Skin?
If you shave, ensure that you are using the best possible electric shaver or razor, with sharp blades. You'll also want to make sure you change or clean it regularly, and use it properly without too much pressure. The other thing to avoid is dull razors which will tear and pull at the skin. They come at a variety of price points.
Environmental factors play a large role in how your skin feels and looks. Everything that the world throws at us hits our skin the moment we go outside and it takes a toll. Harsh wind, strong sun rays, and extreme heat or coldness are rough on your skin. Sunscreen helps help protect from harmful rays and should always be used when going outside. However, sunscreen can only do so much. If you have to go out in harsh conditions, keeping your skin covered as much as possible provides an extra layer of protection. Always use a quality moisturizer with complementary ingredients to keep the integrity of the skin and to prevent rashes.
Cotton pads and balls soak up a good amount of product you put on them. They also cause friction when rubbed against the skin making them more irritating when you apply a product. Skipping the cotton and pouring the product you need to apply on your skin to your hands instead will be much gentler to your skin. It will also save you a bit of cash by eliminating cotton balls from your shopping list and making your product last longer because you can use less.
Cleansing wipes are not an effective or kind way to clean your skin. Not only won’t they thoroughly remove all makeup and grime from your day, but they also don’t do a good job with exfoliation. Additionally, the layer of chemicals and preservatives that are left sitting on the skin after use make them a terrible cleansing choice for those with sensitive skin. Keep it old school and stick with cleansing with a face wash and rinsing your skin to get a non-irritating and comprehensive clean.
Avoid aggressive skincare like microdermabrasion and strong chemical peels. These treatments wreak havoc on the skin’s protective barrier which is exactly what a person with sensitive skin will not be able to tolerate. If you want to engage in dermabrasion, try a light peel, but don’t even use these often.
The health of your skin just as the health of every other part of your body benefits from a healthy lifestyle. Even the appearance of your skin will improve when you incorporate the following into your daily routine:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Reducing stress
- Eating whole foods and is especially bountiful in veggies and fruits
- Exercising regularly
- Practicing mindfulness
How Can You Manage Common Underlying Conditions Plaguing the Skin?
Dry skin doesn’t look good or feel good. Applying fragrance-free moisturizer three times each day can help keep skin supple and better avoid the symptoms of parched skin, such as:
- Itchiness
- Flakiness
- Peeling
- Rough feeling
- Cracking and opening, leading to bleeding, soreness, and even infection.
Eczema symptoms may be helped with the addition of over-the-counter products specifically designed to treat the skin condition. These creams and moisturizers may help your overly vulnerable skin. When your Eczema symptoms are very severe, it is advisable to see a dermatologist.
Contact dermatitis occurs when your skin is touched by something that causes it to have a reaction. Finding out what caused your skin to react will help you stay better informed on what products or materials to stay away from. To avoid excessive scratching which will make your symptoms worse, try:
- An OTC steroidal cream like hydrocortisone.
- Numbing creams to minimize the itch and the burning feeling
- Bathing in an oatmeal bath, which can calm skin
Photodermatoses that occur due to a negative reaction to sunlight means that you should always have sunscreen on with at least a UPF of 40. Also, wearing UPF clothing can be helpful.
When you have tried everything and nothing is helping, then seeing a dermatologist is not a bad idea. A certified doctor can help you get back to feeling better and more confident.
Resources— American Academy of dermatology National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
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