Millions of individuals are affected with sensitive and dry skin. This presents an uncomfortable situation and some unavoidable embarrassing situations. Because of the delicacy of the sensitivity, skin can become irritated very quickly by the smallest thing, like a particular food you may be eating. Individuals with sensitive skin have a tendency to blush more often, have skin bumps or pustules as well as have constantly dry skin than other people. The most effective way to test if you have sensitive skin would be to consult a dermatologist.
Cleansing and moisturizing are two of the top tips, for people with sensitive skin. Highly fragranced facial cleansers should not be used, according to top dermatologists. A specialized liquid facial cleanser is less likely to cause skin irritations. Disposable facial washcloths should also be used. Properly moisturizing the skin will help keep drying to a minimum, and this is a vital part of a total beauty and skin care regimen
1. Buying cosmetics is definitely a chore, for people with sensitive skin. A good rule of thumb is to gravitate toward products that have very few ingredients. Reading skin care reviews on line is also a helpful tip, in selecting the proper formula for your skin type. Avoid products that contain deodorants, alcohol and alpha-hydroxy acids. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using a face powder, because they usually contain very few preservatives. Also, waterproof and silicone-based products should be avoided. Liquid eyeliners may cause an allergic reaction, because many contain latex. It is advised to use a pencil-type eyeliner, to minimize an allergic outbreak. Any cosmetic can spoil, so toss old cosmetics.
2. Protecting your skin at all times. All skin types, especially sensitive skin, need to be protected all year long. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 should be worn all year round, and whenever you are outdoors for longer than 15 minutes at a time. The damaging UV rays of the sun are strongest between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, so going out between these hours should be avoided, if at all possible.
During the winter months, to avoid excessive skin dryness, it is recommended that you don’t keep your home overheated. Also, take warm, not hot showers, and use soap, free of fragrance and harsh chemicals.
If you do go out, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and tight-woven clothing that covers your arms and legs. Apply your sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going out, and reapply it every two hours, after swimming, or if you’ve been perspiring heavily.
3. Choosing clothes sounds like a simple task, but there are certain fabrics that could be a nightmare, for people with sensitive skin. Soft and smooth fabrics, such as fine cotton and silk, rarely cause skin irritations. Both of these fabrics are absorbent, which means that moisture is drawn away from your skin. Linen and rayon are also comfortable fabrics, but they are heavier in nature, when compared to silk or pure cotton. In addition, for maximum comfort, clothes should be worn loosely.
4. Fear of an allergic reaction. People with sensitive skin are always in fear of having an allergic reaction. Once the cause of the reaction is identified and eliminated – the damage to the skin can last a few days, to a few weeks.
5. Eating and drinking can be a very limiting activity, for individuals that are dealing with extra sensitive skin. Drinking water flavored with lemon is an excellent addition to one’s diet, to keep skin healthy and hydrated. Enjoying spices, such as cinnamon and turmeric, reduces skin inflammation and the appearance of fine lines on the skin.
6. Avoid fragrances, because they can be very irritating to sensitive skin. Perfumes, scented soaps and lotions should be avoided. Read all ingredients carefully, to avoid a negative skin reaction.
7. Eczema is an inflammation of the skin, and although not life-threatening, it is annoying, because of the excess dryness and itching associated with a flare-up. When everything is working properly, the top layer of your skin should seal in moisture, and act as a protective layer for the deeper skin. For sensitive skin sufferers, this top barrier allows precious moisturizer to escape, which can lead to very dry skin that flakes and itches. Skin can get inflamed if irritants, such as fragrances or smoke, settle on the skin’s surface and penetrates the other layers.
8. Rosacea affects close to 14 million Americans, and it is usually more defined in individuals with sensitive skin. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, red patches and bumps on the skin, and swelling of the skin. A flare-up can be minimized by using gentle soaps, avoiding alcohol consumption, getting the required dose of Omega-3 fatty acids, and avoid getting microdermabrasion treatment.
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