Sensitive skin is a common condition that implies your skin is more prone to uncomfortable reactions such as redness, itching, breakouts, rashes and extreme dryness, roughness, flaky patches, swelling, open sores, peeling skin.
There are many causes of sensitive skin, it can range from your diet, the weather, and the hair products you're using. Also, household products such as laundry detergent can cause skin sensitivity. But according to experts, treating your skin too aggressively could be the top reason for having sensitive skin. You could easily be overwhelming your skin by using all sorts of products that are not adapted to your skin type with ingredients that are way too harsh for your skin barrier.
The first step in caring for your sensitive skin is to have an in-depth understanding of your skin type. This means you will have to carefully analyze how your skin reacts to the different products you're using and adjust your skin care routine accordingly. Here are some questions you should ask yourself:
Is my skin affected by changes in the weather? Does anything make it better?
Does anything make it worse?Do I have a relative with sensitive skin?
- What type of cosmetics and laundry detergents am I using?
Fortunately, for every concern, there is a solution.
First things first, you can find relief by using a gentle soap-free cleanser that does not disturb your skin barrier or leave your skin feeling dry or tight. You can find great cleansers among French brands such as La Roche Posay, Avene and Bioderma.
You should also find the right moisturizer and SPF for your skin type and condition. A good moisturizer and SPF leaves your skin feeling supple and healthy-looking while addressing and not exacerbating any other skin sensitivities you may have. Ideally, the perfect moisturizer and SPF should make your skin not only look better, but also feel better.
When it comes to breakouts and acne, there can be a number of reasons that cause it, including stress, lack of sleep, overactive oil glands, and exposure to comedogenic (pore-clogging) products. Don't forget that sensitive skin is easily prone to inflammation. Fortunately, you can treat breakouts with salicylic acid, a well-known solution for reducing acne by exfoliating the skin and keeping pores clear. While a bit pricey, one of the best French pharmacy beauty products for acne-prone skin is SkinCeuticals LHA Cleanser gel. You can find great and less expensive options among brands such as Avene, Vichy and La Roche Posay.
Always do a patch test on a small non-visible area of your skin such as your elbow before using any product. That way you will know if your skin can tolerate it before you use it on your face or other visible areas of your body.
If none of the at-home treatments are providing you relief, it is time to consult a dermatologist so you can determine if there is another underlying cause to your sensitive skin.
