What Is Sensitive Skin and How to Treat it
Unravelling the Mystery of Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can present itself in a multitude of ways – redness, itching, burning sensations, dryness – you name it. Let’s explore understanding your sensitive skin and how best to care for it.
Sensitive vs. Sensitized Skin: Know the Difference
Sensitive skin comes in two flavours: the one you're born with (genetic) and the one you acquire from external factors (sensitized). In both cases, the skin's natural barrier has been compromised, allowing unwanted guests (like irritants) to waltz in, while permitting precious water to escape, leading to dehydration. Some factors like pregnancy, illness and stress can also contribute to your skin feeling or becoming sensitised.
Spot your skins quirks
The triggers for skin sensitivity are varied. Blame it on the weather, allergens, synthetic fragrances, certain skincare ingredients (such as sulfates and alcohol), or the day's stress – each person's skin has its own sensitivities. To decode this puzzle, consider keeping a skincare diary to spot any recurring patterns in your skin's reactions.
The Gentle Art of Caring for Sensitive Skin
Cleansing: Opt for a mild, fragrance-free cleanser like Dermalogica Ultracalming Cleanser. This gentle, cooling creamy formula won't strip your skin of its natural oils. Make it a ritual – cleanse morning and night to bid farewell to dirt, makeup, and environmental pollutants. If water sensitivity is your concern, don't fret, you can remove this cleanser with soft tissues or cotton wool.
Exfoliation: Which type of exfoliator is best for a sensitive skin is a question asked often. It is best to opt for a gentle, rice based exfoliator, one that doesn’t feel gritty on the skin and works using gentle exnzyme exfoliators. Dermalogica’s award winning Daily Microfoliant is perfect to gently treat a deicate skin type.
Moisturising: Introducing Dermalogica's New Stabilizing Repair Cream – it's like a guardian angel for your skin. Not only does it create a temporary barrier, but it also nudges your skin to rebuild its own natural shield over time.
Sunscreen: A good SPF 30+ sunscreen, formulated for sensitive skin, is a must-have. Go for a physical sunscreen, like Dermalogica's Invisible Physical Defence SPF50 – your skin will thank you.
Simplify Your Regime: De-clutter your routine! In the world of skincare, less is often more when it comes to keeping your skin calm. Stick to a straightforward routine with fewer products to minimize the risk of unwelcome reactions.
Farewell to Fragrance: Fragrances are common culprits for sensitivity. Wave goodbye to products that feature "Parfum" or "Perfume" in their ingredient list. Opt for fragrance-free skincare and cosmetic products to maintain harmony.
Steer Clear of Troublesome Ingredients: Stay away from products containing SD alcohol, retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and other potentially irritating ingredients until you have spoken to a professional skin therapist as they can trigger sensitivity issues when used incorrectly.
Lifestyle Matters Too
Your skincare routine isn't the sole influencer of skin sensitivity. Lifestyle choices also have a significant impact:
Diet: Spicy foods, dairy and alcohol can also be a trigger. Try to eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Stay hydrated to keep your skin's elasticity in check.
Stress Management: Stress can be the villain in this story. Engage in stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, or simply spending quality time in nature.
Hygiene Habits: When it comes to baths and showers, opt for lukewarm water. Hot water can be too much for a sensitive skin and remember to pat your skin dry gently with a soft towel.
Professional Solutions
At Tranquil Soul Therapies, we offer professional treatments designed to alleviate some of the issues linked to sensitive and sensitized skin.
Dermalogica ProSkin60: This treatment involves a comprehensive skin analysis to pinpoint the most suitable products for your skin's current needs. You'll then enjoy a tailored 60-minute treatment and receive recommendations for an effective, bespoke homecare regime.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): For those struggling with redness caused by rosacea or thread veins, IPL is a safe and effective solution. It zaps the blood vessels, ensuring they won't make a comeback.
In Conclusion: The Path to Radiant, Confident Skin
Sensitive skin may demand extra care, but with a bit of TLC, it can also become your canvas for a radiant and healthy complexion. By identifying your skin's triggers, keeping it simple, making mindful lifestyle choices, and celebrating your skin's uniqueness, you're embarking on a journey toward skin confidence and comfort.
Ready to embark on this journey? Book your appointment with Janine or explore the Dermalogica range here. Your sensitive skin deserves nothing less than a glowing, confident, and comfortable glow!