Posted by BR Amelia
Sensitive skin. If there's anything to throw a spanner in your beauty regime, it's sensitive skin. One minute you're enjoying a product, nek minute, your skin feels like it's burning and you're frantically wondering how to fan the flames of the reaction.
What to do if you have a sensitive skin reaction.
If your reaction is particularly severe or you believe it to be an allergic reaction*, you might want to touch base with your GP or duty nurse. For a mild reaction follow these three easy steps:
1. Cleanse.
Use a gentle, soap-free cleanser and tepid water and thoroughly wash your face.
I love La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser - it's a wipe-off milk that makes cleansing sensitive and allergy-prone skin a breeze!
2. Mask.
Restore your skin's natural barrier with a deeply hydrating mask.
But here's the catch - you need to use one that has a simple, soothing formula, designed for sensitive skin. Otherwise you risk adding more fuel to that sensitive skin fire!
3. Moisturise, Moisturise and Moisturise.
Sensitive skin tends to lean towards the dry end of the spectrum, particularly after a flare up. Follow a nourishing serum with a moisturiser that's non greasy but intense.
Our Trial Team LOVED the Recoverederm Day Cream from Dr LeWinn's - a perfect option for us sensies.
*How do I know if I'm having an allergic reaction and not just a sensitive skin flare up?
If you're allergic to something the reaction will be more severe than if your skin is just sensitive. Signs of allergic reactions include a rash, itching, painful burning, and sometimes even vomiting and breathing difficulties. If you suspect an allergic reaction, call for medical help immediately.
When it comes to skin care, common allergens are parabens (preservatives) and fragrances.
What to look for in a product if you have sensitive skin:
Generally, if you have sensitive skin, it can't really be 'healed'. But you can suss out a skin care routine that works for you, and stick to it.
Here's what to look for when shopping for your sensitive skin:
- Products formulated especially for sensitive skin.
- Products with fewer ingredients - there's literally less to react to.
- Products that are fragrance free.
- Hermetically sealed products like some of the La Roche-Posay Toleriane range. This special way of containing a product means the formula doesn't need preservatives and parabens.
- Products that are labeled '100% Hypoallergenic'.
I have sensitive skin although it's mostly my cheeks that seem to react to certain products and food. I use gentle products with no parabens or harsh preservatives now and make sure I only lightly exfoliate using lactic acid instead of beaded products now.