Tips and Kits for Sensitive Skin

Having sensitive skin can be quite frustrating, especially in the first phases of discovering how sensitive your skin is, to begin with. Because the last thing you want is to irritate your skin and trigger a reaction, tailoring a skincare regime and identifying what doesn’t aggravate your skin is key. In this article, we try to break down this process in a simplified manner so you can stay clear of triggers and give your skin the care it deserves.

[ photo: pexels.com by ximena mora ]

Essential hydration

Generally speaking, all skin types need to stay hydrated, and this rings especially true for sensitive skin. Your skin is likely to lose moisture more easily, so you need to always remember to frequently replenish it. 

In addition to drinking more than eight glasses of water every day, opt for rich hydrating creams with ingredients like ceramides (a peptide complex) and niacinamide, bonus points if those creams are specifically developed for sensitive skin. It is recommended that you moisturize twice a day, and apply a hydrating mask once a week as an added measure.

Soothing clothes 

People with sensitive skin and skin allergies commonly struggle with several types of clothing materials. Depending on your level of sensitivity, some synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, rubber, fiberglass, rayon, latex and spandex can be your most vicious enemies as they stay in contact with your skin for long hours, resulting in irritation and discomfort. 

It is always recommended to opt for soft clothing, especially that made of cotton as it is gentle and smooth, allowing your skin to breathe. Always look for clothes made with hypoallergenic dyes, and steer clear of items that contain nickel, formaldehyde, and other common irritants. 

Testing products 

While you should be experimenting with skin products to know what works best for your skin, there’s no way to know how it will react when you’re testing a new product. That’s why it is always recommended to test on a small area on the inside of your arms; this area is sensitive, yet not too noticeable in case of a reaction. Try to get a sample enough for three to five days before you buy the product – you can explain to the salesperson that you have irritable skin, and ask for a week’s test.

Natural ingredients

Another important aspect of choosing the products that will go on your skin is the ingredients. You will want to look for soothing elements that are rich in antioxidants; these can help hydrate your skin and boost repair. 

Plant-based ingredients are typical with nutrients, so aim for aloe, chamomile, rose, evening primrose, and Argan oil. It is also a good idea to look for products that contain azelaic acid, which has a calming effect, or hyaluronic acid with its extra hydrating properties. 

If you have sensitive skin, you are susceptible to getting a sudden mysterious itch and having to spend hours trying to solve the mystery. Having to go over everything from overlooked mosquito attacks, to what you had for lunch, all the way to what you’re wearing and the last skin product you used can be daunting and overwhelming. We hope that this article shed some light on simple lifestyle changes you can make to take better care of your sensitive skin and keep it comfortable and healthy.