How to Care for Sensitive Skin

Learn how to choose the right skincare routine to help calm, protect, and nourish your skin without causing further irritation.

What is Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin is often characterised by irritation, redness, dryness, stinging, or burning sensations when exposed to certain skincare products, environmental elements, or lifestyle factors. Those with sensitive skin often experience flare-ups, which can include conditions like rosacea, eczema, or contact dermatitis.

While sensitive skin can be temporary or occasional for some people, for others it’s a constant issue that requires a gentle, carefully selected routine.

Causes of Sensitive Skin

Several factors can lead to or trigger sensitive skin:

• Genetics: Sensitive skin can run in the family. If your parents or close relatives have sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, you’re more likely to have sensitive skin.

• Environmental Factors: Harsh weather (cold winds, hot sun), pollution, or sudden changes in temperature can make sensitive skin more prone to irritation.

• Skin Conditions: Conditions like rosacea, eczema, or dermatitis can lead to heightened skin sensitivity.

• Overuse of Skincare Products: Harsh chemicals, fragrances, alcohol, or exfoliating ingredients can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, making it more sensitive.

• Stress: Psychological stress can cause the skin to react, leading to flare-ups or rashes.

• Diet and Lifestyle: Some foods (spicy foods, dairy, etc.) or even hormonal changes can trigger sensitivity.

Key Ingredients for Sensitive Skin

When managing sensitive skin, it’s crucial to choose products that calm, soothe, and repair the skin without irritating it further. Here are some key ingredients to look for:

Soothing Ingredients:

• Aloe Vera: Known for its calming and cooling properties, aloe vera helps soothe inflammation and redness, making it perfect for sensitive skin.

• Chamomile: A gentle, anti-inflammatory ingredient that can reduce redness and irritation.

• Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal is renowned for its ability to calm dry, itchy, or irritated skin.

• Calendula: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, calendula helps to soothe and heal irritated skin.

• Centella Asiatica: This herb, also known as Cica, is a powerhouse for sensitive skin. It promotes healing, reduces redness, and helps to strengthen the skin barrier.

Barrier-Reinforcing Ingredients:

• Ceramides: These lipids help restore and protect the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and reducing irritation.

• Hyaluronic Acid: A hydrating powerhouse that locks moisture into the skin, helping to plump and soothe without irritation.

• Niacinamide: This ingredient is fantastic for reducing redness, strengthening the skin barrier, and soothing irritation.

• Squalane: A lightweight, non-irritating oil that hydrates and supports the skin’s natural barrier without clogging pores.

Avoid These Ingredients:

• Fragrance: Fragrance, even in natural products, can be irritating for sensitive skin.

• Alcohol: Some alcohols can be drying and irritating. Look for alcohol-free products or fatty alcohols (like cetearyl alcohol) which are safe for sensitive skin.

• Harsh Exfoliants: Physical scrubs or strong chemical exfoliants (like glycolic acid) may irritate the skin. Stick to gentler options like lactic acid or mild enzyme exfoliants.

Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin

A gentle, hydrating, and soothing skincare routine can help manage sensitive skin without causing irritation. Here’s a basic routine to follow:

Morning:

• Gentle Cleanser: Choose a mild, soap-free cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin. Look for a hydrating formula with calming ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

• Toner: Use an alcohol-free toner with soothing ingredients like calendula or rose water to balance and hydrate the skin.

• Serum: Opt for a serum containing niacinamide or hyaluronic acid to reduce redness and provide hydration.

• Moisturiser: For sensitive skin, the Purito Bamboo Panthenol Cream is an excellent choice. This moisturiser is formulated with bamboo sap and panthenol, which helps soothe, repair, and hydrate the skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Alternatively, the Probio Cica Enrich Cream is another great option for calming irritated skin, as it contains Centella Asiatica (Cica), which helps to reduce redness and support the skin barrier, while also providing hydration without irritation.

• SPF: Sunscreen is essential. Choose a gentle, mineral-based SPF to avoid irritation, as chemical sunscreens can sometimes trigger sensitive skin.

Evening:

• Gentle Cleanser: Cleanse with the same mild, non-stripping cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and pollutants.

• Hydrating Toner or Essence: A soothing toner or essence can replenish moisture and calm irritation.

• Serum or Treatment: If your skin is irritated, use a calming serum with ingredients like centella asiatica or a soothing peptide serum.

• Moisturiser: Apply a nourishing moisturiser like the Probio Cica Enrich Cream to help restore the skin barrier and calm inflammation overnight. Its soothing properties make it ideal for sensitive, irritated skin, ensuring hydration and barrier support while you sleep.

Things to Avoid If You Have Sensitive Skin

• Excessive Exfoliation: Over-exfoliating, especially with harsh physical scrubs or strong acids, can compromise the skin barrier and cause irritation.

• Hot Showers: Hot water can strip the skin and trigger irritation. Opt for lukewarm water when cleansing.

• Heavy Makeup: Heavily fragranced or thick makeup products can clog pores and irritate sensitive skin.

• Harsh Chemicals: Avoid skincare products with alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or artificial dyes, as these can trigger inflammation.

• Stress and Lack of Sleep: Both can contribute to skin sensitivity. Aim to manage stress levels and get enough rest.

Pro Tips for Sensitive Skin

• Patch Test New Products: Always patch test new products before applying them to your entire face. This helps avoid severe reactions or irritation.

• Keep It Simple: Less is more when it comes to sensitive skin. Stick to a simple, calming skincare routine with gentle ingredients.

• Stay Consistent: While sensitive skin may take a little longer to calm down, consistency is key to restoring balance. Stick with a routine that works for your skin and be patient.

• Avoid Over-Touching Your Face: Frequent touching can transfer bacteria and oils from your hands, triggering flare-ups. Try to avoid touching your face throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Sensitive skin requires a gentle, nourishing approach to help maintain balance and avoid flare-ups. By using calming ingredients, staying consistent with your routine, and avoiding harsh products, you can manage sensitive skin and protect its natural barrier. Over time, your skin will become more resilient, and you’ll be able to enjoy a clear, comfortable complexion.