8/26/10
Sensitive Skin Care

Sensitive skin has many definition depending upon what irritates it and the duration it takes to soothe and heal. Sensitive skin is usually thin in texture, and quick to react to a number of environmental factors and allergens. It is necessary to identify skin type, once it is clear that an individual has sensitive skin, a (mostly prescribed) sensitive skin care regimen must be followed to reduce incidence of skin irritation.

Sensitive Skin Care

Redness, flaking, itching, blemishes, etc. combined or alone are all marks of sensitive skin. Sensitive skin has been identified and classified by dermatologist as acne, rosacea, contact dermatitis and burning.
  • Acne: It is caused by oily skin and high levels of the bacteria that clog pores.
  • Rosacea: Rosacea is a condition characterized by pimples, facial flushing and broken blood vessels.
  • Contact Dermatitis: Allergens and irritants that have an effect on the skin.
  • Burning: An occurrence of burning or stinging feeling caused by a variety of substances. Read more on acne prone sensitive skin.
Sensitive Skin Care Tips

It isn't quite easy to find a perfect sensitive skin care routine, and there is no 'fix all' product too. Once the sensitive skin type has been identified, one needs to adhere to the dermatologist's prescription and advice to keep the skin from irritating itself. However, there are a few things one can do too:
  • Keep yourself well hydrated. Dehydration causes the skin to dry and feel stretched.
  • Avoid going out in the sun without a prescribed sun block. Apply the sunscreen half an hour before exposing yourself to the sun's harmful rays, and re-apply every four hours.
  • If acne is the skin condition you suffer from, pay special attention to what you eat. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, and avoid oily ones.
  • Avoid excess cleansing. Too much washing and scrubbing the skin will deplete it off its natural moisture and create an imbalance in the skin's natural pH balance.
  • Avoid skin care treatments that involve the use of chemical peels, cosmetic surgery or laser technology.
  • If the sensitive skin type is contact dermatitis, avoid cosmetic products and toiletries that may contain ingredients that will result in an allergic reaction. Even organic product may cause contact dermatitis and/or burning or stinging feeling as they may contain allergy causing essential oils and fragrances.
  • Perfumes should be completely avoided for not only do they contain essential oils and fragrances, but chemicals that can irritate the skin.
  • Detergents, room refreshers, or other household cleaners can all add to skin sensitivity.
  • Follow a prescribed skin care routine that should include cleansing, toning and scrubbing (if prescribed) and moisturizing to prevent the skin from drying or flaking. Read more on sensitive skin cleanser.
  • Always use hypo-allergic cosmetics which is usually recommended for people with a sensitive skin. Read more on sensitive skin care tips.
  • There are many sensitive skin care products that can help soothe, heal and treat a recurring problem. Just make sure the one you choose is best suited to your skin type and your problem.
Sensitive skin care for men requires as much consideration as women require. Men with skin conditions, especially on the face must be very careful while shaving and using after shaves. Before using any sensitive skin care product, always patch test it, to avoid worsening the skin condition.
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