Introduce Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin is a condition marked by skin that is easily irritated by different factors. People with sensitive skin tend to experience more redness, stinging or burning sensations, rashes, and bumps after using certain skincare products or coming into contact with potential irritants. Sensitive skin persons must prefer the moisturizer with non-comedogenic properties.(Novaskins The Powerhouse)
Some common causes and triggers for sensitive skin include:
- Genetics - Some people are just predisposed to having more reactive skin. It can run in families.
- Weather and temperature changes - Cold, dry winter air or hot, humid summer weather can irritate sensitive skin.
- Environmental factors - Pollutants, cigarette smoke, harsh chemicals in skincare products.
- Lifestyle - Stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, and not enough water intake.
People with sensitive skin often experience symptoms like:
- Tightness, stinging, burning, itching after applying skincare products.
- Increased redness and flushing. Blotchiness.
- Acne breakouts or skin rashes after using a new product.
- Dry, flaky skin and increased oiliness.
Using the wrong skincare products that contain sensitizing ingredients or are too harsh for your skin type is a very common trigger for sensitive skin flare-ups. People with sensitive skin need to be careful about choosing gentle, soothing moisturizers and cleansers.
Causes of Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can have multiple underlying causes, including skin conditions, allergies, environment, and genetics.
Skin Conditions
Certain skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis can make skin more prone to irritation and sensitivity. The compromised skin barrier allows external factors to more easily penetrate and trigger inflammation.
Allergies
Allergies to ingredients in skin care products, cosmetics, or hair care items can also lead to redness, itching, and sensitivity. Common culprits include fragrances, preservatives, botanical extracts, essential oils, and dyes.
Environment
Environmental factors can increase sensitivity as well. This includes overexposure to sun, cold winter weather, wind burn, and indoor heaters which strip moisture from the skin barrier. Pollution and smog may also play a role.
Genetics
Some people are just born with more sensitive skin. This can be due to having weaker skin barrier function passed down genetically, which allows irritation to occur more easily. Ethnicity can also be a factor, as those with fairer skin tend to experience more sensitivity.
Ingredients to Avoid
Sensitive skin can react poorly to certain ingredients commonly found in skincare products. When shopping for a moisturizer, it's best to avoid products containing:
Fragrances - Main offender for sensitive skin. Added scents, whether natural or synthetic, can cause redness and irritation for many. Look for labels that indicate "fragrance-free". (The Powerhouse Hydra gel moisturizer)
Dyes - Coloring agents and artificial dyes serve a cosmetic purpose but provide no skin benefit. They can provoke skin sensitivity.
Alcohols - Ingredients like ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, and benzyl alcohol can disrupt the moisture barrier and strip natural oils. Limit use.
Parabens - Preservatives like methylparaben and propyl paraben may cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis for those with sensitivities. They are commonplace despite concerns.
Sulfates - Surfactants or foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) may over-cleanse sensitive skin leading to inflammation and dryness.
Soothing Ingredients
When choosing a moisturizer for sensitive skin, look for these natural, soothing ingredients:
Aloe Vera - Known for its cooling and calming properties, aloe vera gel can provide hydration while also soothing irritated or inflamed skin. The polysaccharides and antioxidants found in aloe help strengthen the skin barrier.
Chamomile - With anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, chamomile can calm redness and sensitivity. The chamazulene in chamomile has the ability to decrease skin reactions.
Oatmeal - Colloidal oatmeal contains compounds that give it anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, antioxidant, and skin-protecting abilities. Applying moisturizers with colloidal oatmeal can relieve dryness and irritation.
Ceramides - Naturally found in skin, ceramides are waxy lipids that help retain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier function. Using a moisturizer formulated with ceramides can improve hydration for sensitive skin types. Novaskins the powerhouse moisturizer consists of ceramides which will greatly helps in barrier repair.
The Importance of Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free
When you have sensitive skin, it's especially important to choose skin care products that are free of common irritants. Hypoallergenic products are formulated to minimize the potential for allergic reactions. This means avoiding ingredients like synthetic fragrances and dyes, parabens, formaldehyde releasers, and alcohol which can provoke sensitivity.
Opting for fragrance-free moisturizers is highly recommended. Fragrances, whether natural or synthetic, contain hundreds of chemical compounds that can cause redness, inflammation, and irritation in people with sensitive skin. Even if a product claims to be "unscented," it may still contain masking fragrances. Check the ingredients list and look for the words "fragrance-free" to be sure.
Sticking to moisturizers specifically designed for sensitive skin types ensures you avoid potential triggers while still getting lightweight hydration. These formulas soothe and protect sensitive complexions. Key qualities to look for include being gentle, non-greasy, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist-tested for extra peace of mind. (The Powerhouse Hydra gel moisturizer)
SPF Protection
Choosing a moisturizer with SPF is vital for sensitive skin prone to sun damage. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad spectrum protection without irritation. They sit on top of skin, deflecting UV rays unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb into skin and can trigger sensitivity.
When selecting a moisturizer, opt for SPF 30+ which blocks 97% of UVB rays. SPF 50 blocks just 1% more rays than SPF 30 while costing significantly more. For faces, choose an SPF moisturizer formulated specifically for that delicate skin. Reapply moisturizer with SPF every two hours when outdoors as the protection does degrade over time. Proper reapplication ensures continued defense against sunburn, early aging of skin, and skin cancer risks.
Staying in the shade when possible and wearing protective clothing reduces sun exposure and lowers the reapplication frequency needed. Do see a dermatologist yearly to check for any signs of skin damage or risks identified early while still treatable. Using a daily broad spectrum SPF moisturizer safeguards sensitive complexions both now and for healthier skin long-term.
Application Tips for Sensitive Skin Moisturizer
When applying any new moisturizer to sensitive skin, it's important to do a patch test first. Simply apply a small dab of moisturizer to your inner arm or behind your ear and check for any redness or irritation after 24 hours.
Only use very mild, fragrance-free cleansers on sensitive skin to avoid irritation before applying moisturizer. Avoid leaving skin damp, as this can exacerbate sensitivity.
(The Powerhouse Hydra gel moisturizer)
Apply moisturizer directly after cleansing, while skin is still slightly damp. Gently smooth over entire face using circular, upward motions.
When starting a new moisturizer, begin by only applying once per day to assess skin tolerance. Slowly increase frequency to twice daily, as needed. Take note if increased usage causes any irritation.
Sometimes, less is more with sensitive skin. Using moisturizer only at night or every other day may provide enough nourishment while avoiding overload on delicate skin. Pay attention to what your unique skin needs.
As with any new product, allow 4-6 weeks for skin to adjust before making a final assessment on moisturizer compatibility. Be vigilant, but patient. Finding the right moisturizer is worth the effort for sensitive skin! (Novaskins)
Lifestyle Tips for Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin requires diligent and gentle care, including avoiding irritants and promoting healing. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle optimal for sensitive skin.
Avoid Irritants
When caring for sensitive skin, it's important to minimize contact with potential irritants:
- Soaps and detergents that contain harsh or synthetic fragrances or dyes
- Rough fabrics or animal hair
- Overly hot water
- Air pollution and cigarette smoke
Take care to use gentle, fragrance-free products for cleaning homes and clothes and use lukewarm water for bathing and washing. Protect the skin by wearing soft, natural fabrics and avoiding irritating environmental conditions where possible.
Use a Humidifier
Central heating and air conditioning tend to dry the air, which can dehydrate and irritate sensitive skin. Help combat this by using a cool mist humidifier, aiming to keep indoor relative humidity around 30-50%. This will provide additional moisture without promoting mold growth. Just remember to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid any contaminants in the mist.
Eat a Healthy Diet
While there's no definitive "sensitive skin diet," maintaining good nutrition helps keep skin healthy. Key considerations include:
- Getting enough fiber to promote gut health and a strong skin barrier
- Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants and vitamins
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Consuming probiotics to support a healthy microbiome
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish, nuts, and seeds, as well as zinc and vitamin C also seem to boost skin health. Some people find avoiding dairy, spicy foods, or excess sugar reduces skin sensitivity and inflammation. Keeping a food diary can help identify any individual triggers.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you have sensitive skin, it's recommended to see your doctor or dermatologist if you have persistent skin issues or symptoms, or if you find that over-the-counter products are ineffective at treating your sensitivity.
Some signs you may need to get checked out include:
* Severe inflammation, swelling, or redness that lasts for more than a week or two with no improvement
* Painful skin sensations, itching, or tightness
* Rashes, hives, bumps or other irritation
* Frequent skin infections that don't respond to OTC treatments
* Contact dermatitis that doesn't resolve even after removing potential irritants or allergens
Your doctor or dermatologist can run allergy tests (e.g. patch testing) to determine what specific ingredients or substances may be triggering your sensitivity. They can also check for other skin conditions that may be contributing to your reaction, and prescribe medical treatments like corticosteroid creams to help manage the symptoms.
In some cases, prescription-strength moisturizers or anti-inflammatory creams may be needed to help get your sensitivity under control. Light therapy and other specialized treatments are also options depending on the cause and severity of your skin reaction.
Getting a proper diagnosis and customized treatment plan from your healthcare provider can help identify triggers, manage flair ups, and minimize future reactions so you can find relief. See your doctor sooner rather than later for persistent sensitive skin.