Suddenly your skin can become too sensitive. It happens overnight; it becomes inflamed, burning, and irritated. Around 70% of women undergo sensitive skin conditions, according to a survey conducted by the Frontier in Medicine. Many women assume it is due to certain skincare products or household items that come in contact with the skin triggering the episode. Dermatologists look for certain reasons that cause skin reactions, like pustules and skin erosion, dehydrated skin that does not shield the nerve endings, and a tendency to blush and flush. When your skin becomes sensitive, it becomes less tolerant to certain skincare brands, causing dehydration and irritation, giving a burning sensation in the affected area.
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More susceptible
Women suffering from eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea are more susceptible to sensitive skin, but it often occurs without such conditions. Injured or extremely dehydrated skin that no longer defends nerve endings and prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions such as high UV and cold could trigger skin sensitivity. The primary reason for skin sensitivity is the disruption of the stratum corneum, which acts as a protective barrier against external stimuli. When the barrier is damaged, external allergens, UV light, and chemicals infiltrate into the skin causing cellular damage and consequential skin sensitivity. The age of the person, genetics, gender, and race differences in skin tolerance may play a part in skin sensitivity.
Patch test
It is difficult to diagnose skin sensitivity as many factors influence it, but patch tests can categorize signs of allergies that trigger skin sensitivity. More consumers are shifting to natural skin care products as harsh chemicals such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), synthetic aroma, and alcohol found in cosmetic products can damage skin at the cellular level. Traces of metals like nickel in common skincare products can damage skin texture, so if you are going through skin sensitivity, stay away from chemical and cosmetic products for at least for few days.
Avoid over-exfoliation
There are different cleansing methods for sensitive skin, and efficacy depends on the skin type and texture, but many dermatologists suggest avoiding deodorant soap on sensitive skin as it contains strong detergents. Mild cleansing devoid of harsh chemicals is good for sensitive skin and less hazardous than soaps. Dead skin cells shed after every thirty days; exfoliation is a process to fasten it. Every man and woman dream of having smooth silken skin, and to achieve it, they do over-exfoliation that causes more harm than good. The renewed cells do not have the required lipid that binds it making the skin barrier vulnerable to foreign objects. To know the proper way of exfoliation and interval, read articles on the Women’s Concepts webpage.
Use moisturizer
Without adequate water content, the skin becomes dry, less supple, and needs more time to heal. When the skin becomes dehydrated, it lacks water, while dry skin is deficient in natural oil. Two are different skin conditions. In winter, the skin needs added hydration to preserve water retention. Dehydrated skin appears dull, itchy, and wrinkled as there is a lack of moisture from the inside. To evade these symptoms drink adequate water and apply alcohol-free moisturizer. In winter, take a lukewarm shower and bath and use a moisturizer containing ceramides, glycerin, mineral oil, and linolenic acid.
