Sensitive Skin Issues
If conventional skin products leave your skin feeling red and irritated then it’s time to get into a skincare routine that won’t. We answer the sensitive questions…
What is sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin has an increase in thinness and the blood vessels and nerve endings are much closer to the skin’s surface. It is usually described as very thin, fragile-looking, pink or flushed. But don’t think it’s only dry types that suffer; there’s an increase of women with oily, thicker skin who are reporting sensitivities.
Why is my skin sensitive?
Skin sensitivities are on the rise. This may be due to an increase in environmental factors – such as pollution and harsh, synthetic skin care – or a less-that-perfect diet. There also may be genetic factors involved such as dermatitis, eczema and rosacea.
What should I avoid?
The main offenders when it comes to skin sensitivities are temperature changes (these can be seasonal, climatic or just stepping in and out of the office air-conditioning); allergic reactions to things such as pollen and dust; cosmetics; stress; chemical sensitivities to face creams or clothes washing liquids; and improper diet.
Note: Liver dysfunction and liver disease or pregnancy can also cause otherwise normal skin to become sensitive. So if you have other symptoms or think there’s something more serious going on, seek out professional advice.
What can organic and natural products do for sensitive skin?
For most of us, skin sensitivities are due to topical application of conventional skincare. Filled with petrochemical, parabens, talc and other skin-clogging and skin irritating additives, much of the skincare and makeup we’re buying off the department store or supermarket shelves are hindering our best efforts to keep skin looking at its peak. If skin sensitivities are getting you down, eliminating synthetic skin care products should be high on the to-do list.
What are the best sensitive skin ingredients?
Changing your current skincare products to something more natural and free of chemical emulsifiers and preservatives is a good way to tackle sensitive skin issues. Look for skincare products that contain chamomile, vitamin E and A, rosehip oil, chickweed extract, amino acid complex – these hard-working ingredients will all moisturise and hydrate the skin as well as reduce itchiness and redness. We love non-irritating, organic brands such as Gaia, and MiEssence for sensitive types.
Eight ways to treat sensitive skin:
- Keep it simple: Less is definitely more when it comes to sensitive skin. Sticking to a gentle gel or cream cleanser, an alcohol-free toner, and soothing moisturiser with little or no chemical preservatives is a skincare routine worth sticking to. Our pick: Miessence Soothing Moisturiser and Miessence Soothing Cleanser.
- Go fragrance free: Strongly fragranced products are a major skin irritator. Even some essential oils (such as citrus) may aggravate some sensitive skin types so path test new products and keep tabs on ingredients that exacerbate. Our pick: Absolutely Gorgeous Pink Clay Creme Cleanser or Mukti Cleansing Lotion.
- Keep your cool: Reducing the heat of showers, baths and room heating by a degree or two will help reduce redness, inflammation and irritation.
- Don’t rub: Rubbing skin vigorously while cleansing or applying moisturiser only causes issues at pore level. When things are particularly sensitive, hold off on the exfoliator; a soft muslin washcloth will keep things clean until skin is strong enough to take anything more vigorous.
- Mineral cosmetics: Ditch conventional makeup, which is filled with chemicals and irritation-causing potential, and take up mineral foundations instead. Mineral makeup is made up of all-natural pigments and contains no nasty additives so pores stag clog and irritation-free. Bonus for sensitive types: not only does mineral makeup have great buildable coverage, brands such as Inika Mineral Foundation contain zinc oxide in their formulation, which has a soothing and calming effect on skin.
- Supplement your diet: A daily dose of vitamin B complex will help get skin functioning at its best, while introducing one or two salmon oil or evening primrose capsules to your diet will help nourish skin from within.
- Drink more: Water that is.
- Eat well: A diet full of fresh fruit and vegetables, wholegrains (things like brown rice and wholemeal bread), fresh fish and good quality lean meats will go a long way to helping your body fight off skin irritations.
|
|
