|
|
CARING FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
How can you tell if you have sensitive skin or not? A rule of thumb
is if your skin reacts to almost anything, you have sensitive skin.
That is, if you're wearing no make-up, no moisturizer and no
sunscreen, and your skin still reacts, then it's sensitive. But before
doing anything, it's important to first confirm that you do have
sensitive skin and that there is no other dermatological problem,
such as rosacea, eczema or sun allergy, causing the reactions. If you
are unsure, it's alwaysa good idea to consult a dermatologist. While
dermatologists did not take sensitive skin seriously for years,
fortunately that is changing now and sensitive skin is being looked
at as a valid dermatological problem requiring attention.
Sensitive skin most often stings and burns from reactions you
can feel, but not see - a condition
dermatologists call subjective
irritation. The skin in this condition
looks absolutely normal to the other
person. Sensitive skin can thus sting,
itch and burn for seemingly no reason,
or break out in an irritating and all
too-noticeable rash. Your skin can
turn red, dry and chapped from the
heat, cold or other environmental factors that other people can
tolerate well enough, or get irritated by ingredients in make-up
and skin care products.
In taking care of sensitive skin, stick to a few basic products,
using only those that you absolutely, positively need. Generally,
you will need a cleanser, a moisturizer and a sunscreen.
- Choose a soap-free, superfatted unscented bar or a body wash.
Deodorant or antibacterial soaps can excessivelydry sensitive
skin.
- Avoid harsh products like abrasive facial pads or grainy face
and body scrubs. These strip away the protective top layer of
the skin, which protects it from the heat, cold and other
pollutants.
- You need to be extra vigilant about the area around your eyes.
- Your eyelids are so thin and sensitive to irritants that they often
become dry, scaly and itchy. Clean eye make-up with an oily
remover rather than an oil-free product, which tends to dry
out skin. Gently stroke away eye make-up with a cotton swab
or pad. Scrubbing with a tissue or washcloth can irritate your
already sensitive lids, causing wrinkles and flaky skin.
- Avoid alcohol-based astringents and toners.
|
|
