At least half of men and women in the US perceive that their skin to be sensitive. A sampling of close to 1,000 individuals interviewed via phone revealed the same results. The study results were published in the Journal of Dermatology in 2011.
What causes sensitive skin?
Fact is, there may be more people who think they have sensitive skin because of common inflammation but much less are really born with sensitive skin issues. There are several factors that drive people’s skin to become sensitive, which include:
Congenital skin diseases. Some people have it in their genes. These skin conditions can include anywhere from extra dry skin to eczema, atopic dermatitis and skin asthma, to hemangiomas and epidermolysis bullosa—a rare skin condition that cause skin to erode or shed with little to no apparent damaging trauma.
Stress and low immune response. Chronic lack of sleep and constantly high pressure causes skin to break. This is the reason why you always seem to get a zit whenever you are consciously preparing for an affair of a lifetime, such as your own wedding.
Constant subjection of skin to extreme weather conditions. The extremely cold and extremely hot climates cause skin too become rough and brittle.
Incorrect skincare routine and poor hygiene. Scrubbing on skin makes it tear. Poor hygiene clogs your pores and causes skin to become infected.
Harsh products. This is the most common reason why people think they have sensitive skin. Unfortunately even products that are supposedly made for adult acne treatment or to care for your sensitive skin are laden with ingredients that make sensitive skin become irritated.
Diet and lifestyle. Smoking pollutes the skin. Poor diet fails to get the right nutrients in to support maintenance of healthy skin. Lack of exercise causes poor circulation.
Dirt, dust, and pollution. Sometimes, skin irritations are triggered by polluted environments. Clean your home and office space regularly. Change your sheets weekly, and everyday if you have acne problems.
When sensitive skin strikes.
When signs of sensitivity manifest, your skin needs the extra care and attention to heal. Listed below are five signs your skin may be irritated along with some recommendations about what you can do about it:
Redness, itchiness, and swelling. Fragrances, drying alcohols and artificial colorants, often infused in your skincare products and cosmetics, are, unbeknownst to many, two of the most irritating ingredients. Check your products for harsh ingredients and ditch anything that contains these ingredients and synthetics that you can’t even begin to pronounce.
Dry and rough skin. While some people normally have dry skin, in most cases, the dryness and flaking is brought about by damages in skin cells. Damaged skin cells are less capable of capturing sufficient amounts of moisture to keep your skin hydrated, silky and supple to the touch.
Incorporating moisturizing but non-irritating ingredients to your routine. Address your diet too and make sure that you’re only eating what’s good for you.
Premature signs of skin aging. When you’re seeing fine lines and wrinkles too soon, it’s time to revamp your routine. There is a natural course for skin aging and normally, that does not happen until you turn 30 and the manifestations hardly become pronounced until you reach 40. If your skin is often inflamed then, it could be causing your skin to age. Inflammations cause skin to become tough and damaged, making skin lose elasticity. Moisturize and get on an anti-aging regimen fast.
Increased photosensitivity. Sensitive skin can be a manifestation of weakened skin barrier. Coupled with unprotected skin, increased photosensitivity leads to multiple signs of skin aging. Revitalize your skin protection routine with sunscreen and antioxidants for added UV protection. Make sure that your daytime products do not contain retinol as well. Retinol causes skin to become more photosensitive.
Frequent appearance of blemishes and acne breakouts. These are signs that clogged pores are causing your skin to become infected. Other than cleansing, toning and exfoliating, make sure to get the appropriate adult acne treatment to tackle your acne problems. In some cases, remedies are not enough. You may need prescription medication to correct your condition.
Dedication and commitment is required to effectively tackle sensitive skin. That means, employing all means necessary to bring back your healthy skin—from using the right creams to getting on a healthier lifestyle. You’re tougher than your sensitive skin so go conquer it to reveal your beautiful skin.
Paola Ramirez
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