Let’s talk about some interesting sensitive skin facts!

“Sensitive skin” is a term we are all familiar with, but what does it mean, what causes it and what are the best sensitive skincare options for your skin? If you’ve suffered from skin that’s prone to irritation, you’ll know and understand how hard it is, how much it affects your confidence and how scary it can be to try new products.

What is sensitive skin?

FACT 1: Sensitive skin isn’t a clinical term or skin type but simply refers to skin that is more reactive than average.

Skin irritation means different things to different people; but usually involves symptoms such as redness, stinging, burning, itchiness, breakouts and general discomfort. Irritation occurs after your skin comes into contact with a particular ingredient, fragrance or environmental trigger like changes in weather or exposure to pollution, UV rays etc.

Ongoing sensitive skin can be a sign of an underlying condition e.g. allergic eczema, dermatitis, urticaria, psoriasis. Trying to resolve persistent problems can be complex, so it’s always best to consult a doctor if you are concerned about ongoing skin problems to identify and treat the underlying causes.

What causes sensitive skin?

FACT 2: Your skin barrier is a living ecosystem, it skin forms a protective barrier from the outside world and is an important part of your immune system.  Both the skin barrier and your immune system can be easily impacted by

  • changes to environment, diet, lifestyle
  • microbial changes
  • pH changes
  • skincare ingredients
  • injury
  • ageing

The skin is the largest organ in your body and comprises three main layers. The upper layer known as the epidermis contains natural oily compounds or lipids (including fatty acids, ceramides and cholesterol). These lipids help to maintain healthy skin by keeping water inside your body and potentially harmful things out (allergens, UV rays, pollution, wind).

FACT 3: Your skin barrier is constantly in motion with 1000’s of chemical reactions taking place at any one time.  Some skin types are more resilient than others, and if your skin is sensitive, your barrier is typically weaker, thinner, and more easily damaged, making it easier for irritants to penetrate the skin and cause inflammation. On the other hand, having a thin lipid barrier means it’s also easier for moisture to escape, leading to dryness. This is why dry and sensitive skin commonly affects people.

Your immune system

FACT 4: Your skin is part of your immune system.  Once an irritant gets through the lipid barrier it can trigger an inflammatory response from your immune system. Redness, pain, swelling, itching, and other similar symptoms are signs of a reaction.  This is the case with autoimmune diseases.

Are natural ingredients always best for sensitive skin?

FACT 5: Some natural ingredients can cause irritation and sensitivity just like synthetic ingredients can. In many cases, natural ingredients can help to keep your skin barrier healthy, hydrated and glowing.  Some questions to ask yourself…..

Do you suffer from food or pollen allergies? Avoiding soy, nut and wheat protein may be necessary. Those allergic to latex may need to avoid aloe, papaya and dandelion products.

Are there any essential oils which your skin cannot tolerate? then although they are natural, you want to avoid them.

Skincare ingredients to watch out for

Ingredients which can disrupt the lipid structure in your skin barrier and lead to excess moisture loss, dryness and itching include:

  • Foaming agents/surfactants e.g. SLS, SLES, ALS
  • Alpha hydroxy acids e.g. glycolic acid
  • Artificial preservatives e.g. Phenoxyethanol, Methylisothiazolinone, EDTA
  • Artificial fragrance

So what is the best for sensitive skin?

1. For many with sensitive skin, the worst thing we can do is to over-exfoliate and wash with harsh cleansers and hot water which can disrupt that outer protective fatty layer. Instead opt for a gentle cleanser.

2. Keep it simple with minimal products and transparent ingredients lists. Focus on cleansing and moisturising with products that include ingredients like:- Calendula, chamomile and butters. The Sensitive skin Day & Night Cream is excellent for sensitive skin!

3.Balance and brighten your skin barrier with 2 pumps of Replenish Lifting Serum an antioxidant rich serum that supercharges your skin routine.  It’s a blend of antioxidant Niacinamide, prebiotic Ectoin and triple weight hyaluronic acid as well as vitamins.

4. Avoid fragrance  Fragrances, contains about 400 chemicals, can irritate the skin.

5. Make sure your facial routine is done by someone that understands your skin! At Pure Salon i have become the ‘sensitive skin whisperer’ 🙂 and i welcome you to experience a facial that will not leave you traumatized! (BOOK HERE)