Itching, rash, and redness are a few of the many symptoms of sensitive skin that sometimes may occur because you are treating your skin too aggressively. Research suggests that an average woman uses different products every day, containing 168 unique ingredients. This overwhelming skincare routine often leads to sensitive skin. However, very few people with sensitive skin recognize that there is something wrong with the way they are taking care of their skin. That is why we are here to guide you on how to care for your skin on a daily basis to reduce skin sensitivity. Use Sunscreen Daily Excess exposure to sunlight can be dangerous and may affect skin cells that sometimes result in rashes or other skin problems. The best solution to this is to avoid going outside in the sun and if you need to go, don’t forget to wear sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with ingredients like titanium oxide and zinc oxide. It’s advised to go for sunscreen with SPF 30 or less. That’s because sunscreen with SPF above 30 may have higher amounts of comedogenic ingredients that can harm your sensitive skin. Use Raw Milk One of the popular cleansers for sensitive skin is raw milk as it contains moisturizing properties, skin lightening compounds, skin-nourishing ingredients, and anti-inflammatory agents. All of these together soothe the skin and reduce itching, pigmentation, and dryness. Apply Oatmeal-yogurt Face Mask Another way to care for your sensitive skin at home is by applying an oatmeal-yogurt face mask. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of oatmeal soothe the skin and prevent it from damaging. You can use the mask to treat sunburns and as a moisturizer as well. Yogurt is also an excellent exfoliator for dead skin cells as it contains lactic acid which makes your skin look fresh and smooth. Take Balanced Diet Consuming a balanced diet is the key to healthy skin. Therefore, try to eat natural foods as much as you can instead of processed food. Consider adding the following antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods in your meals to make your skin healthy and heal faster: Add fats to your diet from natural sources like avocados, extra-virgin olive oil, and nuts Organic vegetables and fruits such as tomatoes, leafy greens, blueberries, and apples. All these contain high amounts of polyphenols and antioxidants that benefit your skin sensitivity. Intake of healthy carbs is very beneficial for keeping your skin healthy. Consider including whole grains, beans, and berries in your diet. Improve Your Bath Routine Are you a fan of taking a hot bath? Change this habit now! Where hot bats may be a source of relaxation for many, that’s not the case for people with sensitive skin types. Taking hot baths drives away all the natural oils from the skin and causes irritation, which results in red patches and sometimes dehydration. Don’t Rub Your Skin This is a common mistake that many people with sensitive skin might be making. Rubbing your face with a towel often results in bumps and redness. Instead, use a soft cloth and pat it gently to dry your face. Keep Yourself Hydrated It is essential to keep yourself hydrated if you have sensitive skin. For that reason, consider consuming plenty of water as it removes all the toxins from your body. Instead, you can also have any drink that contains vitamins such as vitamin B. Vitamin B reduces sensitivity and skin irritation. You may also consider taking multivitamins to meet your skin’s hydration needs. Diamond Glow is one such powdered supplement that acts as an energy booster and skin healer. It contains vitamin A, B, C, ad E and a handful of natural ingredients that help heal damaged skin cells and keep your skin moisturized and hydrated.
Monthly Archives: March 2022
Retinol is the form of vitamin A that provides anti-aging benefits by increasing cell turnover and promoting collagen production. Collagen is responsible for providing elasticity to your skin. Erin Gilbert, a dermatologist based in New York, says, “Retinol can be used by nearly everyone if it is used correctly.” But is retinol really good for people with sensitive skin? Let’s find out! Should People with Sensitive Skin Skip Retinol? Dermatologists suggest that retinol can be a beneficial addition for most skin types, but it isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Zenovia Gabriel, MD, also gives her take on this matter: “People with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea cannot tolerate really strong topicals like retinol.” Dr. Erin Gilbert adds, “Start low and take it slow.” So, a one-liner answer is: You can use retinol for sensitive skin, given that you start slow. How to Use Retinol on Sensitive Skin? Do a Gentle Cleanse, Always! A certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein suggests that start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser. It’s better that you find a cleanser infused with skin-soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid for your sensitive skin. Try a Mild Retinol For starters, you shouldn’t jump into concentrated retinol. Instead, use a mild version to see whether things go the right way. Moisturize Dehydrated, flaky skin ups the ante for sensitive skin folks. So, applying any form of retinol without moisturizing your skin can be a nightmare. You can add a tiny bit of your moisturizer into your retinol to dilute it. Or use the sandwich technique, where you apply moisturizer, top it up with retinol, and then layer it up with moisturizer application. This base layer of moisturizer helps with tolerability. Don’t Rush It Dermatologists don’t suggest using more than a pea-sized product two to three times a week. Allow it to sit on your skin before rinsing it off and see how it reacts. This is to ensure that your skin can develop tolerance against the ingredient. Over time, if your skin doesn’t get irritated, flaky, or reddish, you can gradually increase retinol concentration. Use Cream Formula Serums or gels are more concentrated than creams. So, stick to the cream formulations that don’t irritate you right off the bat. Avoid Drying Ingredients While using retinol, you should stop using some ingredients that lead to irritation and dry skin. One such ingredient is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid, along with retinol, is notorious for making things worse for sensitive skin. Stop and Re-prep If your skin is reactive to retinol, even after the precautions mentioned earlier, then it’s time you should allow it to breathe a little. Stop retinol application and let your skin repair its cells. Restart the routine after some time when things go back to normal. Retinol is safe-to-use for all skin types. However, it should be used with little adjustments. Start slow and don’t overdo it. Don’t apply too much at once and avoid using harsh chemicals. Retinol is the form of vitamin A that provides anti-aging benefits by increasing cell turnover and promoting collagen production. Collagen is responsible for providing elasticity to your skin. Erin Gilbert, a dermatologist based in New York, says, “Retinol can be used by nearly everyone if it is used correctly.” But is retinol really good for people with sensitive skin? Let’s find out! Should People with Sensitive Skin Skip Retinol? Dermatologists suggest that retinol can be a beneficial addition for most skin types, but it isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Zenovia Gabriel, MD, also gives her take on this matter: “People with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea cannot tolerate really strong topicals like retinol.” Dr. Erin Gilbert adds, “Start low and take it slow.” So, a one-liner answer is: You can use retinol for sensitive skin, given that you start slow. How to Use Retinol on Sensitive Skin? Do a Gentle Cleanse, Always! A certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein suggests that start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser. It’s better that you find a cleanser infused with skin-soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid for your sensitive skin. Try a Mild Retinol For starters, you shouldn’t jump into concentrated retinol. Instead, use a mild version to see whether things go the right way. Moisturize Dehydrated, flaky skin ups the ante for sensitive skin folks. So, applying any form of retinol without moisturizing your skin can be a nightmare. You can add a tiny bit of your moisturizer into your retinol to dilute it. Or use the sandwich technique, where you apply moisturizer, top it up with retinol, and then layer it up with moisturizer application. This base layer of moisturizer helps with tolerability. Don’t Rush It Dermatologists don’t suggest using more than a pea-sized product two to three times a week. Allow it to sit on your skin before rinsing it off and see how it reacts. This is to ensure that your skin can develop tolerance against the ingredient. Over time, if your skin doesn’t get irritated, flaky, or reddish, you can gradually increase retinol concentration. Use Cream Formula Serums or gels are more concentrated than creams. So, stick to the cream formulations that don’t irritate you right off the bat. Avoid Drying Ingredients While using retinol, you should stop using some ingredients that lead to irritation and dry skin. One such ingredient is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid, along with retinol, is notorious for making things worse for sensitive skin. Stop and Re-prep If your skin is reactive to retinol, even after the precautions mentioned earlier, then it’s time you should allow it to breathe a little. Stop retinol application and let your skin repair its cells. Restart the routine after some time when things go back to normal. Retinol is safe-to-use for all skin types. However, it should be used with little adjustments. Start slow and don’t overdo it. Don’t apply too much at once and avoid using harsh chemicals.
There has been a buzz around sensitive skin for the past decade. Nearly 60 – 70% of women and 50 – 60% of men have reported they have sensitive skin. However, the perception of sensitive skin differs based on people’s understanding. “There isn’t a definitive checklist that dermatologists use to define sensitive skin. The best way to establish your skin type is to pay close attention to your skin’s reaction.” – Dr. Peter Katz, board-certified dermatologist. Here are some of the signs of sensitive skin that you may notice if you’ve sensitive skin. Reactive Skin If your skin is sensitive, you’ll observe that it reacts to certain chemicals in fragrances, cosmetics, skincare products, soaps, detergents, and other household products. Besides, being out in the cold, wind, or sun can also induce flares. Redness Many people having sensitive skin experience at least some degrees of redness. It might be a mere rash or red bumps. But in some cases, people might notice blushing and flushing, which results in the dilation of blood vessels. These dilated blood vessels give temporary redness to your face, often on your neck or chest. Sometimes, the dilation of blood vessels persists and causes serious consequences. Itchy and Burning Skin People with sensitive skin should refrain from using skincare products with strong chemicals, like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). Because it will most likely irritate or lead to a burning sensation. If you’ve applied any such product to your face, your best bet is to rinse it off with cold water right away. Remember that washing it with hot water will make your skin suffer more. Dry Skin Dry skin, sometimes, can be a result of an underlying disease, which leads to skin sensitivity. A moisturizer will protect your skin against harsh elements, like extreme cold, wind, etc. Breakouts People with sensitive skin people tend to have frequent breakouts. These breakouts give the appearance of acne with red bumps. Because it’s not the acne that oily skin people experience, you will flare it up by using an acne face wash designed for oily skin people. So, it would be best if you were picky in choosing a product, explicitly curated for sensitive skin. Rashes Leave-on products, such as night creams, exfoliators, etc., aren’t generally suitable for sensitive skin because you’ll end up with a rash that looks like a red bump or red, flaky, dry skin. Such rash is usually uncomfortable and irritates your skin. Sunburn Sensitive skin is prone to be sun-damaged. If your skin is flaky or peeling off, it’s a dead giveaway that you’ll receive the harmful effects of the UV rays. That’s why it’s highly recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunblock before going out. To Wrap It Up Sensitive skin is a common skin condition, which is more likely to get irritated than the normal skin type. It can be sometimes frustrating as it gets irritated or itchy quickly and leads to other skin concerns as well. However, this skin condition is easily treatable with a proper skincare routine and balanced diet along with healthy multivitamins that may help sooth and heal sensitive skin.
If your skin undergoes any damage while you’re young, it springs back quickly because of your skin’s elasticity. Whereas, it loses elasticity with age and becomes thinner and drier, hence making an easy target for wrinkles. These fine lines then deepen to make permanent grooves. To make the case worse, the gravitational pull makes them look droopy and saggy. Apart from the most prominent factor contributing to aging: your age, many other factors can cause wrinkles. Let’s go through some of them. Causes of Wrinkles Sun Exposure According to an estimation, people working in sunlight have 90% more chances of getting wrinkles earlier than those working indoors. That’s because the UV light penetrates the middle layer of your skin and breaks down the collagen and elastin fibers. (Collagen provides structure to your skin, and elastin gives flexibility to skin tissues). Excess exposure to the sun leads to recurrent, abnormal breakdowns of collage and elastin fibers, which makes your skin weak and less flexible. Hence the appearance of wrinkles! However, the severity of wrinkles depends upon the total time your skin was exposed to UV rays. Smoking Chain smokers show early signs of aging and look significantly older than non-smokers. That’s because the nicotine in cigarettes constricts your blood vessels, thus limiting the oxygen and blood supply to your skin and other organs. It disturbs the natural repair process of skin cells and emphasizes fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, alcohol consumption also ups the ante by making your skin dehydrated. Dry skin is most likely to undergo the early development and onset of wrinkles. Menopause Research shows that menopause speeds up aging in a woman by 6%. A secondary role of the estrogen hormone is keeping your skin elastic, soft, smooth, and hydrated. And menopause is known for reducing estrogen levels in women, followed by a rapid decline in collagen by 30%. Therefore, when you enter menopause, your skin loses elasticity, becomes dry, and wrinkles become more prominent on your skin. Repeated Facial Movements Facial expressions like smiling, frowning, squinting, etc., cause contraction of your facial muscles. Such repeated movements lead to grooves on your skin surface, which appear in the form of laugh lines, wrinkles on your forehead, and underneath the eyes. As your skin loses its ability to bounce back, these lines become permanent. Free Radicals Free radicals are the unstable oxygen molecules that are on the hunt to stabilize their missing electron. Researchers found that free radicals produced in the mitochondria (the cell’s powerhouse that supplies nutrients) damage the cell substance required for its normal functioning. This cell damage causes a chain reaction of more free radicals and hence more cell damage. This rabbit hole of finding a missing electron then leads to the rapid aging process, which manifests in the form of wrinkles. Bottom Line Wrinkles are an inevitable part of the aging process. However, with a healthy lifestyle (like quitting smoking and alcohol), you can delay the development of wrinkles at a young age and also keep other signs of aging at bay. If you’ve got something to add, feel free to drop a comment below.
Ultraviolet radiations of the sun can trigger skin sensitivity, so, must be avoided by using a suitable sunscreen with SPF 30 or above. It may help prevent rashes, hyperpigmentation, sunburns, or even skin cancer. However, certain chemical formulas, fragrances, preservatives, or extracts in sunscreens may aggravate skin sensitivity, but some sunscreen products are specifically formulated for sensitive skin. We’ve listed some of the best tried and tested sunscreens below that may improve your skin health and radiance. Best Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen The oil-free, hypoallergenic, paraben-free formula of La Roche-Posay is dermatologically tested for hypersensitive skin. Formulated with broad-spectrum photo-protection formula with SPF 60, it is a highly effective product for preventing skin blemishes, pigmentation, and frequent skin infections. It is a fragrance-free product that leaves the skin well moisturized, smooth, and nourished. CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Hydrating mineral CeraVe Sunscreen with SPF 50 is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Its fragrance-free formula is rich in hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. CeraVe is a hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and oil-free sunscreen that can nourish and revitalize your skin by reducing the skin’s susceptibility towards redness, rashes, and outbreaks of acne. Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Australian Gold is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 that provides ultimate sun protection from both UVA and UVB radiation. It is formulated with mineral zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, vitamins, and antioxidants to help fight oxidative skin damage, thus making it more refreshing and juvenile. MDSolarSciences Mineral Moisture Defense Being a dermatologically recommended product, MDSolarSciences is perfect for protecting your skin from UV rays of the sun. The eco-cert mineral helps reduce the risk of skin cancer, sun-exposed skin damage, and aging. A decent blend of glycerin, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and ceramide as active ingredients makes your skin smooth and glowing. COOLA Mineral Matte Tinted Sunscreen COOLA Mineral Sunscreen contains primrose and flaxseed oil to give your skin an ultimately smooth finish. These oils provide omega-3 and gamma-linolenic acid, which serve as moisture retainers for skin by improving its elasticity. Shea butter with its anti-aging formula also hydrates and rejuvenates the skin. EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen is a dermatologically tested broad-spectrum product with SPF 46. It contains zinc oxide and octinoxate that wouldn’t show a white residue. The lightweight fragrance-free formula is often recommended for oversensitive, rosacea, and acne-prone skin. EltaMD also contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin B3 that support your skin’s immunity, thus reducing the risk of frequent skin infections. VANICREAM Sunscreen Sport Broad Spectrum The oil and fragrance-free formula of VANICREAM provides long-duration sun protection. Being active ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide help soothe the skin by restoring its natural moisture. It reduces the chances of developing infections and early skin aging signs. AVEENO Protect+ Hydrate Face Sunscreen Aveeno ultra-moisturizing sunscreen with antioxidant oat provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays of the sun. It is water-resistant and hypoallergenic, so it can be used daily to keep your skin youthful and glowing. This oil-free and non-comedogenic sunscreen protects and hydrates your face without causing irritation. Final Words Finding suitable sunscreen can be difficult for people with sensitive skin as sunscreens with harsh chemicals can irritate the skin. Always select sunscreen according to your skin type, age, and likelihood of sun exposure. Moreover, checking the ingredients list may help to reduce skin reactivity towards certain harsh ingredients. I hope the list shared above helps you find the best sunscreen for your sensitive skin.
Decreased production of collagen and elastin in the skin due to aging or underlying health conditions may cause wrinkles. That’s because both these proteins help improve skin elasticity and juvenility. Though aging and wrinkles are not inevitable, you can still look younger by using the appropriate products and treatment options. OTC products containing retinoids, antioxidants, or collagen can reduce wrinkles, while some home remedies can also be helpful in this regard. Let’s discuss the ways that can help you effectively remove, reduce, or prevent wrinkles. Causes of Wrinkles Wrinkles due to aging is a natural phenomenon that usually starts at 40 to 50 years of age. However, certain factors can trigger aging-related skin problems even when you are younger, such as loss of skin elasticity, wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation. The most significant reasons for wrinkles are: Aging and genetics Environmental toxins Improper skin products Prolonged sun exposure Unhealthy food Dehydration How to Remove and Prevent Wrinkles? Reduce Sun Exposure Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays ultimately causes wrinkles on your face. Though completely avoiding exposure to UV light is not possible, sunscreen can be used to reduce its damaging effects. The National Center for Biotechnology Information suggests that sunscreen with SPF 30 or above may be highly beneficial in delaying the signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmented spots. Facial Massaging Facial massage using 2-3 drops of essential oils may help rid wrinkles by improving skin elasticity and blood circulation. It increases oxygen and nutrients supply towards skin muscles, thus, helping combat signs of aging. The best essential oils to improve skin health are: Avocado oil Olive oil Jojoba oil Coconut oil Sweet almond oil Healthy and Balanced Diet A well-balanced diet rich in proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins helps nourish your skin. Fish is an excellent food that provides all the essential nutrients your skin requires. Moreover, fruits and raw vegetables rich in antioxidants also improve skin texture by reducing the effects of free radicals. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day helps remove the toxins from your body, thus making your skin more fresh and glowing. Multivitamins Oxidative stress is more likely to occur and damage the skin cells than any other organ of your body. Taking foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants helps fight oxidative damage. You can also take oral supplements rich in vitamins and minerals, such as Diamond Glow. The HACCP-approved, anti-wrinkle formula of Diamond Glow is enriched with ascorbic acid, vitamins (A, B, C, and E), hydrolyzed marine collagen, and mixed fruit extract. All its ingredients help reduce wrinkles, prevent dark spots, and restore the natural moisture of the skin. Deep Moisturization A daily application of moisturizing cream or lotion helps restore the skin’s natural moisture and juvenility. It can also help decrease the early aging signs by reducing the fine line and wrinkles. Topical Treatments OTC skincare products, preferably with the following ingredients, can help reduce wrinkles and aging. These ingredients are: Alpha-hydroxy acids, also known as fruit acids, contain lactic and glycolic acid that stimulates collagen production and remove the dead skin cells. Retinoids boost the synthesis of new cells and improve skin elasticity without causing side effects such as itching or hypersensitivity. Pentapeptides help improve skin texture by reducing fine lines, wrinkles, bumpy skin, and aging signs, says the American Academy of Dermatology. Vitamin C is a natural product for reducing inflammation, aging, and wrinkles by increasing collagen production. It rejuvenates the skin by fighting oxidative stress. A healthy diet, physical activities, and natural skincare products are the best ways to prevent wrinkles. However, consult with your dermatologist before using any chemical product on your skin to minimize the associated risks.
Salicylic acid is an excellent ingredient for treating whiteheads, blackheads, excess oil, and acne. It exfoliates the skin cells and reaches the benchmark by allowing a moisturizer to penetrate deep into the skin. However, even with all these perks, it isn’t the ideal and safe-to-use ingredient for all skin types. According to Blair Murphy-Rose, a certified dermatologist, people with sensitive skin are most likely to experience some side effects after using salicylic acid. Some of them include but are not limited to, dryness, increased sun sensitivity, irritation, etc. So, Should People with Sensitive Skin Stop Using Acids? When people with sensitive skin use salicylic acid to treat breakouts, it dries out the skin. So, how do you expect your skin to respond to this dryness? It produces more oil, hence more breakouts! Salicylic acid might look like a dream ingredient to remove the dead skin cells, make your skin look bright and tight, and increase cell turnover. However, with sensitive skin, it will only lead to devastating skin conditions. With that in mind, dermatologists recommend an acid-free skincare routine that won’t take a toll on your skin. Acid-Free Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin Acid-free Skincare Regimen Many skincare products offer effective results for sensitive skin types. Here is a brief guide on how you should structure an acid-free skincare routine. Non-irritating Cleanser A cleanser removes the dirt and pollutants from the skin surface and keeps them from clogging your pores. However, some cleaners are infused with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), which can surefire lead to serious skin concerns. Dermatologists suggest using a sulfate-free, gentle cleanser that won’t mess up your skin. Physical Exfoliator Quite understandable you’re avoiding acids now, but by no means should you give up on exfoliators altogether. Exfoliation is healthy for the skin, regardless of your skin type. For sensitive skin, dermatologists recommend using a non-irritating, gentle, physical exfoliator no more than twice a week. Moisture-based Toner Toners featuring alcohol and witch hazel rip natural oils off your skin, leaving your skin excessively dry. However, more of an essence, a moisture-infused toner hydrates and soothes your skin. If your toner contains hyaluronic acid, it will lock the moisture in your skin. Vitamin C While you’re dropping acids from your skincare, you must replace it with a serum that helps with treating fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. The best serum for this purpose is vitamin C. It makes your skin radiant, plump, healthy-looking. However, a downside of using it is the increased sensitivity to the sun. So, make sure to incorporate a sunblock in your routine (if you’re not already using one). Cell-repairing Products Using ingredients that repair skin cells naturally can be beneficial for the skin. For example, DNA repair enzymes are derived from algae, planktons, etc., and can help repair and build skin cells. Another incredible ingredient for cell repair is EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor). It helps with treating sun-damaged cells. Take very good care of your sensitive skin and avoid using salicylic acid for exfoliation as it can do more harm to your skin. Instead, use the other methods mentioned above to nourish your sensitive skin.
Having sensitive skin isn’t a disease per se. It’s rather a reaction to a chemical in cosmetics or skincare products or a symptom of an underlying disease. In other words, it’s a skin type that can easily acquire inflammation. From dry skin to Eczema to Rosacea, there are many reasons why you experience sensitive skin in the first place. But the real question is: Can Sensitive Skin Trigger Acne? Sensitive skin and acne are some of the most lethal combinations ever existed. That said, symptoms like burning, redness, irritation, etc., join forces to add fuel to the fire. But, you can take some measures to treat acne on sensitive skin. How to Treat Sensitive Skin Acne? Below are some of the possible remedies and treatments worth a shot. Don’t Wash Your Face Frequently You should typically wash your face after waking up and before going to bed. Doing it more often can irritate your skin. Don’t Use Harsh Exfoliators Exfoliating hard on acne-prone sensitive skin can prove to be a nightmare. Dr. Brooke Bair, a certified dermatologist, puts it this way: “Acne is not a ‘dirt’ problem. So, scrubbing harder and using hard exfoliants don’t help and can only lead to more redness and irritation.” No Picking Popping pimples is exceptionally tempting, but it can lead to acne scars that can sometimes be quite stubborn to disappear. Besides, it also transfers bacteria through your fingers to other pores and turns it into a big, inflamed bump. However, if you have to pick a pimple, let your dermatologist perform it through a process called extraction. A word of caution: Extraction involves using sterile, cutting-edge tools, so don’t try it at home. Wash Off Makeup Brushes and Pillowcases Frequently The American Academy of Dermatology recommends changing pillowcases 2-3 times a week. Besides, bed sheets should be changed every week. You can also prevent germs from spreading to other pores by cleaning your makeup brushes daily or twice a week at least. Furthermore, your mobile phone harbors enough dirt to clog your pores and worsen acne. So, wiping them off with a specific cleanser every day can be helpful. Skincare Routine for Acne-prone, Sensitive Skin Below is a morning and evening skincare routine that will bring desired results if you stick to it. Remember: Persistence is the key in treating any skin condition. Morning Use a gentle cleanser that does not irritate your skin. Apply toner to remove excess oil that plays a significant role in causing breakouts. Follow it with a moisturizer to attain an appropriate level of hydration. Top it up with a broad-spectrum SPF. Ideally, it should be 30+ as acne treatments make your skin sensitive to the sun. Evening If you’ve makeup on, make sure to remove it. Use a gentle makeup remover for this. Use a non-irritating, gentle cleanser that removes every spec of dirt from your face. The pivotal point of morning and evening skincare routine: follow your doctor’s prescription. Visit a Doctor Dermatologists usually recommend salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids to treat acne. However, these ingredients are not idealistic for sensitive skin types as they tend to irritate the skin. So, your best bet is to visit a doctor for the proper treatment.
People with sensitive skin should be extra careful about choosing the right skincare products. You must be aware of each aspect of skin sensitivity, from skin itching to frequent allergies or skin infections. Here, the most commonly asked questions are discussed that might clear your confusion about causes, signs and recommended skin products for sensitive skin. What is Sensitive Skin? The sensation of itching, burning or redness in response to a triggering stimulant such as environmental changes, pollens or certain allergens is recognized as sensitive skin. The sensitive skin may respond to triggering factors such as recurring skin infections, pimple breakouts, pigmentation, or even mild pain. Why My Skin is Sensitive? Skin sensitivity may be associated with multiple factors that stimulate or worsen hypersensitivity. Commonly, it may be due to inherited skin diseases, extreme skin dryness, hormonal imbalance, allergens, pollution, or chronic diseases. Your dermatologist identifies the root cause of your skin sensitivity before starting the treatment. How to Know if My Skin is Sensitive? Commonly, people with sensitive skin don’t realize their skin type until exposed to an irritant or allergen causing hypersensitivity. Skincare experts check your skin sensitivity level and then recommend the best possible treatment options. Frequent skin allergies, redness, inflammation, or acne breakouts are some of the most common symptoms of sensitive skin. Can Sensitive Skin Cause Acne? Sensitive skin itself doesn’t cause acne, but it may be more prone to acne and skin damage as it overreacts to infections and inflammation. Moreover, skincare products that accelerate or stimulate skin damage might also result in acne and skin infections. Thus, sensitive skin needs proper care and management to avoid skin disorders. How to Exfoliate Sensitive Skin? People with sensitive skin have to be very careful when exfoliating their skin. You’ve to very gentle on your skin. Apply an exfoliator containing retinoid, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), glycolic acid, lactic acid, or polyhydroxy acids (for more sensitive skin) once a week. Exfoliation will help to remove dead skin cells and toxins safely. A study recommends using a low AHA concentration for sensitive skin as it may help prevent skin damage due to UV rays of the sun. A higher concentration may cause swelling, itching, or skin damage. Can Sensitive Skin Use Salicylic Acid? Salicylic acid (SA) is a widely used product to improve skin health by reducing the risks of acne, blackheads and whiteheads. However, for sensitive skin, frequent use of salicylic acid products is not recommended. Sensitive skin is more likely to develop rashes and extreme dryness that salicylic acid-containing products can aggravate. Research reveals that products containing a high concentration of SA might cause skin lesions, ulceration, or acne eruption. Which Sunscreen is good for Sensitive Skin? Using fragrance-free physical sunscreen with SPF 30 or above can help reduce sun-exposed skin damage and sensitivity. However, its active ingredients should be titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to prevent the skin from allergic reactions. Reapply your sunscreen every 2-3 hours of sun exposure. Is Sensitive Skin Permanent? The answer to the above question is may be yes or no, depending upon the causative agent and treatment. If the reason is genetics, then it may affect you throughout the life. However, sometimes skin sensitivity caused due to seasonal changes or certain allergies which can be treated by following a proper skincare routine. These are some common questions about sensitive skin. Take a very good care of your skin followed by a healthy diet, vitamins intake, and proper skin care routine.
Around 50 million Americans, with up to 15% of women, suffer from acne problems every year. Though oily skin is more prone to acne, dry skin may also result in acne due to skin rash and cracks. Moreover, not following a proper skincare routine for your dry skin may trigger the situation. The most prominent forms of dry skin acne are pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, or nodules. Let’s understand the phenomenon that causes acne to develop on dry skin. Facts about Dry Skin The epidermis (the layer of outermost skin cells) acts as a protective barrier between the skin and the external environment. It protects the skin from harmful chemicals or infectious particles and helps retain its natural moisture. However, certain environmental factors, skin diseases, or general health problems may cause extreme skin dryness, making it rough in appearance. Other possible causes of dry skin may be: Harsh detergent soaps and cleansers Cold weather with less humidity Hot water shower Certain health conditions like diabetes, skin lesions, chronic kidney or liver diseases, or skin cancer Side effects of medicines How Does Dry Skin Cause Acne? Sebaceous glands on the skin are responsible for secreting and controlling the oil called sebum on the skin. Blocking tiny skin pores either due to sebum, dirt, bacteria, or dead skin cells clogs the skin pores. It results in minute bumps, whiteheads, or blackheads formation, thus stimulating the acne. Moreover, due to having a rough texture, dry skin becomes more prone to bacterial infection and pollutants, thus resulting in acne development. The acne may be mild such as pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads, or severe such as cysts or nodules. What to do for Dry Skin Acne? You’ve to identify and remove the triggering factors responsible for dry skin acne. Sometimes, it’s easier to manage the causative agents by keeping yourself hydrated and moisturizing your skin. But, it’s not always possible to quickly manage the problem. Harsh cold weather or some chronic disease may take time to be cured. However, seeking medical advice from your dermatologist may help resolve the problem without serious complications. Here are some tips to prevent dry skin acne: Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated to combat dry skin acne. Drink enough water and eat foods that may help lock the skin’s natural moisture. In addition to this, use dry skin friendly moisturizers and non-comedogenic products to hydrate your skin and prevent acne. Apply quality sunscreen before sun exposure to help protect your skin from the harmful UV sun rays that can damage the skin and cause acne. Consume multivitamin supplements to nourish and moisturize your skin. Research reveals that essential fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins can efficiently treat dry skin acne, and oral supplements make an ideal choice to get all these essential nutrients. Adopt skin hygienic practices to reduce the effects of environmental pollutants and bacterial growth. Use gentle cleansers, mild scrubs, and facial masks suitable for dry skin to treat dry skin acne. OTC medications in the form of creams or gels containing benzoyl peroxide may help treat mild cases of dry skin acne. Retinoid creams and antibiotics may also prove to be beneficial for acne problems. Dry skin acne can be frustrating to manage, but it’s possible by carefully managing your skin’s hydration and cleanliness. Know the cause of dry skin acne and follow the tips shared above to protect your dry skin from damage and reduce or prevent the acne.