Sensitive skin is not a condition that can be diagnosed by a specialist. It is usually a symptom of another condition. For example, you may not even know you have sensitive skin until a product causes you a bad reaction.
Sensitive skin refers to a range of conditions from genetic disorders, such as rosacea and eczema, to severe allergies and may include a variety of symptoms such as itching and redness.
What causes sensitive skin?
Skin sensitivity can be caused by a number of factors. It could be something you deal with throughout your life or a new condition caused by external factors or your lifestyle.
- Heredity: If your parents or grandparents had sensitive skin, you are more likely to have it too. Even specific factors, such as sensitivity to the sun, can be passed down through DNA.
- Age: As we get older, our skin changes and becomes thinner, which means it can be affected more easily. Additionally, continuous sun exposure can damage the skin, making it more sensitive.
- Environmental conditions: Extreme weather events (heat waves, cold and strong winds), environmental toxins and pollution contribute to skin problems.
- Skincare products: Using skincare products with toxins or other harsh ingredients can cause skin sensitivity or inflammation.
- Lifestyle: Consuming foods high in salt and/or fat, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of exercise and stress are factors that can affect skin quality.
Hydration is everything!
Since sensitive skin is linked to dryness, it is important to hydrate it regularly. Moisturizing creams “lock” moisture in the skin and soothe it. Choose your moisturizing cream carefully so that it is suitable for your needs. A discussion with your pharmacist would be ideal to guide you to the right choice.
Avoid moisturizing creams that contain artificial fragrances and colors, as they can irritate the skin. Instead, choose products that contain plant oils, glycerin and other ingredients that “lock” moisture in the skin.
The importance of proper nutrition
Diet has a major impact on skin health. Include antioxidant foods in your diet to improve your skin health, such as:
- Organic fruits and vegetables (apples, berries, tomatoes, leafy greens)
- Healthy carbohydrates (beans, whole grains, berries, squash)
- Healthy fat sources (avocado, nuts, extra virgin olive oil)
- Orange fruits and vegetables (carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes, which are rich in vitamin A)
- Nuts (walnuts, almonds)
You can also follow the Mediterranean diet if you want to relieve your sensitive skin. This implies greater consumption of vegetables, fruits, fish, whole grains, nuts and healthy fats.
6 skincare tips for sensitive skin
People with sensitive skin feel that anything can irritate them. Some lifestyle changes will bring significant improvement. These are:
- Short showers 5-10 minutes with warm – not hot – water
- Avoid exfoliating skin products
- Prefer a gentle, fragrance-free facial cleanser
- Use essential oils instead of fragrances
- Invest in a gentle, fragrance-free laundry detergent
- Pat your skin dry gently after showering and apply the appropriate moisturizing cream immediately