Sensitized

A sensitive skin reacts readily to heating, cooling, perfumes and stronger products, with redness. The skin may also feel tight and flake easily, but can also feel greasy. Sensitive skin needs to be calmed and is often in need of moisture. You may suffer from sensitive skin if you have exposed your skin to strong skin care products. Symptoms for sensitive and sensitized skin do have a lot in common, such as itching, burning, redness, flushing and stinging.

A sensitive skin condition is caused by a genetic predisposition. This could be caused by the lower amount of pigment and a thinner epidermal skin layer (the epidermal layer is the top layer of skin that we can see). Sensitive skin is commonly found in those of Northern European ancestry who have very fair skin. But it can affect any person of any racial background or skin color. The climate we are exposed to in our home, cars, offices and during air travel, changes daily; meaning our level of sensitization can vary.

How do I treat Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin cannot be cured. But with the right skin care products the skin can be calmed and regain a balance that is not as reactive.

For skin that is sensitive and dry, look for skin care products that are designed to treat tight and flaky skin, that gently cleanse but do not peel off the skin's natural liquids. Preferably, skin care products that nourish the skin and help it to bind and retain moisture, and protect it from external shocks.

For skin that is sensitive and oily, look for skincare products that are designed to clean the pores without damaging the sensitive skin. Lactic acid and salicylic acid are two good ingredients that exfoliate and absorb excess oil to give the face a matt surface.

In both cases look for products that contain soothing extract that reduce redness and irritation, products that are free from parabens and alcohol.

Keep your eyes open, we will soon be launching our own fabulous skin care line for sensitive skin.