Adulting is tough. Add to that a classic case of sensitive skin and you’re pretty much doomed. Intensely unpredictable and complex, anything from an unsuitable cosmetic ingredient to a dirty makeup brush can flare up sensitive skin. Well, if it’s a sensitive story for you too, take a sigh of relief ‘cause things just got simpler for you, honey!
With just a few scrolls, you’ll find all those long-standing questions about sensitive skin answered.
Q. What is sensitive skin?
A. Usually mistaken as a skin type, sensitive skin is a skin concern. While most women have a skin reaction at some point or another in life, those with persistent issues are classified as having sensitive skin.
In such cases, the skin barrier which ideally protects the deeper layers from irritants is either weakened, dry, or damaged, hence allowing foreign substances to penetrate further. As a result, the nerve endings that sit right under the barrier react and cause redness, itching, swelling, burning or stinging sensations.
Q. Are there any specific causes to such reactions?
A. As a matter of fact, there are four key triggers that aggravate sensitive skin problems.
- Major climatic changes. This could be either be a seasonal change or a result of relocating to a place with extreme weather conditions.
- Water pollution or air pollution.
- Harmful lifestyle changes including sleeplessness, stress, and an unhealthy diet.
- Inclusion of chemical-rich skincare and makeup products in your everyday beauty routine.
Q. My skin does breakout a lot but I’m still not sure if I have sensitive skin. What are the symptoms?
A. We understand your confusion. Here’s how you can figure it out.
Does your face experience mild reactions such as rashes, redness or raised bumps? Or do you have a frequent urge to itch after being subject to any of the following situations?
Does your face experience mild reactions such as rashes, redness or raised bumps? Or do you have a frequent urge to itch after being subject to any of the following situations?
- Exposure to sunlight
- Usage of a product that contains added fragrance
- Exposure to dust, pollen, or pollution
- Adverse weather conditions
- Contact with hard water
If the answer to the above questions is a yes, then it’s bad news, buddy. Sorry, love.
Q. I’m keen on trying newer products but what if I end up harming my skin. How should I test an unfamiliar product for a reaction?
A. Nothing should keep you from exploring the world of beauty. As for unwanted reactions, patch testing is a great way to identify the suitability of a new product. Apply a little product behind your ear to check if there is any perceivable skin reaction.
Q. Can I trust a product that claims to be hypoallergenic?
A. In most cases, you can. It means these products have been tested on sensitive skin and there were no signs of a reaction. However, we’d still recommend a patch test just to be doubly sure.
Q. Are skincare products capable of healing sensitive skin?
A. Partly, yes! An apt skincare routine can help minimize your skin's sensitivity by improving and preserving your skin’s natural barrier. Treating specific sensitive areas with gentle hands also helps in visible improvement in the long run.
Q. What are the big baddies of the sensitive skin care routine world? Are there things that I should completely steer clear of while picking beauty products?
A. Baddies are specific elements found in skincare products that will flare up sensitive skin without a doubt. Here’s a rundown on all the sure-shot baddies that your beauty kitty should be exclusive of:
- Artificial colors
- Artificial fragrance
- Parabens
- Harsh chemicals
- Soap
- Animal derived ingredients
- Alcohol
Q. Are there any specific goodies that I should look for too? Features that are good for sensitive skin especially?
A. Of course, there are! Next time you go shopping, look for these terms on the outer packaging without fail:
- Dermatologist tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Ophthalmologist tested, in case it’s an eye care product
- Triple purified water
Q. What are the dos and don’ts of sensitive skin protection?
A. Handling sensitive skin is a task. Here are some pointers that’ll make it a bit easier.
- Use skincare products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin
- Keeping your skin hydrated with a neutral pH moisturiser will further strengthen its natural barrier.
- Swear by sunscreen with at least SPF 15 all year round. For effective coverage, reapply it every two hours when outdoors.
- You might be in love with matte makeup products but beware! They're likely to contain silicone that your facial skin can react to.
- It’s not just chemicals that you can be allergic to. Even natural ingredients that are considered safe for all can cause a reaction so always do a patch test.
- While drying your face with a towel, always pat-dry instead of rubbing it on your face.
- Avoid waterproof and long-wear makeup products because they require stronger makeup removers.
- If you regularly expose your skin to hot water, you risk stripping off the natural oils. So, avoid extremely hot showers.
Nykaa Recommends: Simple Kind To Skin Cleansing Facial Wipes, Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Wipes, Simple Kind To Skin Micellar Cleansing Water, Simple Kind To Skin Refreshing Facial Wash, Simple Kind To Skin Moisturising Facial Wash, Simple Kind To Skin Eye Make-Up Remover, Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser and Simple Kind To Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturiser
Confused about what products will suit people with sensitive or combination skin? Check out:
