Sophie Okolo, MPH

Sensitive skin is a common type that can cause more irritation than other skin types. If you have sensitive skin, you know how important it is to find the right products and practices that work best for your skin. This blog post will provide ten tips to help you better care for your sensitive skin. 

Tip 1 – Use Gentle Cleansers:

When choosing a cleanser, it’s essential to look for one specifically designed for sensitive skin. These products are usually gentle and free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, and additives that can irritate the skin. It’s also important to remember not to over-cleanse or scrub too hard when washing your face, as this can be damaging to sensitive skin. 

Tip 2 – Choose Mild Exfoliants:

It’s important to exfoliate regularly to remove dead cells from the skin’s surface. Still, if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to choose mild exfoliants such as natural scrubs with small particles or chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). Avoid using physical scrubs with large particles, as these can be too abrasive on delicate skin. 

 Tip 3 – Use Natural Ingredients:

When selecting products for your skincare routine, opt for natural ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber, known for their soothing properties. Additionally, look for products without synthetic dyes or fragrances, which can be irritating to sensitive skin.

Tip 4 – Wear Sunscreen Daily:

Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging, and sunburns are especially damaging for those with sensitive complexions, so make sure you wear sunscreen daily! Look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen that won’t clog pores or irritate the delicate area around your eyes.   

Tip 5 – Hydrate Regularly:

Keeping your face hydrated is essential if you want a healthy-looking complexion, no matter what type of skin you have. Choose a hydrating moisturizer specifically formulated for sensitive skin and apply it twice a day after cleansing and toning your face. The key here is to use lightweight formulas that don’t contain any oil or fragrances that could irritate your delicate complexion. 

Tip 6 – Keep Stress Levels Low:

Stress has been linked to increased inflammation in the body which can lead to breakouts and sensitivity in the skin, so it’s essential to keep stress levels low by doing activities like yoga or meditation that help alleviate stress levels naturally. Additionally, be sure you’re getting enough sleep since lack of sleep has been linked to an increase in cortisol levels, leading to inflammation, dark circles around the eyes, and other signs of fatigue on the face. 

Tip 7 – Don’t Overdo It With Makeup:

If you have sensitive skin, try not to overdo it when applying makeup, as heavy foundations, concealers, and powders can clog pores leading to breakouts and blemishes on the delicate area around the eyes and lips where makeup tends to accumulate more easily due its higher level of oil production compared with other areas of the face. Instead, look for light-tinted moisturizers that provide coverage without being overly thick or heavy on the front. Also, avoid using eye shadows containing glitter or sparkles since these may contain microcrystalline waxes, irritating sensitive complexions. 

Tip 8 – See A Dermatologist Regularly:

Make sure you see a dermatologist regularly who specializes in treating patients with sensitive skin. They’ll be able to provide further tips explicitly tailored for individual sensitivities, like skin writing, eczema, rosacea, and allergies. Additionally, they’ll be able to identify skin irritants you may have come into contact with and advise on how best to treat them to avoid further skin problems. This will ensure proper management of sensitivities over time, so they don’t worsen!                                                                           

Tip 9- Don’t Pick At Your Skin

Picking at the skin can irritate it and make your skin more sensitive. Try to resist the urge to pick and instead gently exfoliate your skin with a mild scrub or chemical exfoliant, which will help remove dead skin cells without causing any damage. This will help keep the skin healthy and balanced while preventing further sensitization.

Tip 10-Keep Your Hands Clean

Your skin is delicate and easily irritated, so it’s essential to keep your hands clean and free of dirt, oils, and bacteria. Always wash your hands before touching your skin or applying makeup to avoid further sensitization or skin issues.

Taking care of sensitive skin requires special attention since even small changes in routine can irritate. However, following the above tips should help reduce irritation while keeping your complexion looking healthy! Be sure also to visit a dermatologist periodically who specializes in treating patients with sensitivities so they can monitor progress! Proper management will ensure long-term success when caring for sensitive skin!