YOUR GUIDE TO SENSITIVE SKIN

Many of us will identify ourselves, as having sensitive skin, but is that categorisation truly correct? Dr Kiran Lohia explains what this skin type really is and how to deal with it.

Sensitive skin is a condition suffered by many around the world. But what does it mean to have sensitive skin? Read on to know.

What is Sensitive Skin?

The skin that has a tendency to react to different triggers is categorised under this. So skin that gets allergic, turns red, or feels dry and irritated easily, can all be classified as sensitive skin. Pigmentation or discoloration however, is not a sign of this type.

The classic skin condition resulting in sensitivity is a condition known as rosacea, where your cheeks are red with broken blood vessels, and you sometimes get zits only on the cheek region. Typically, you flare with redness or irritation due to alcohol, heat, exercise, certain foods or even caffeine. Whenever I see sensitive skin, I first think of rosacea.  While rosacea can occur on its own, it can also occur due to ageing, and to usage of topical steroids like Betnovate on the face. Now that you know what sensitive skin truly is, you now need to know how to battle it.

Dos and don’ts

What Should You Avoid?

1) Use non-foaming washes:

First of all, avoid foam. When we use a soap or face wash or body wash, we usually want foam because it makes us feel like it is making us clean. Fact is foam is not at all required for proper cleansing. And, typically, foam means there are strong detergents such as sulfates in the wash. These detergents will always cause skin sensitivity and dryness, especially when the pH of the wash is not modified. This is because the pH of these strong surfactants is 8 and above, while our skin is at a pH of 5.5, resulting in dryness, skin barrier breakdown and irritation, especially for sensitive skin. So, just watch out and look for non-foaming cleansers to get a gentle wash, without the risks.

2) Avoid common allergens from your skincare regime:

With sensitive skin, you are more likely to get allergic rashes. So avoid parabens, artificial fragrances and artificial colors in your daily skin routine. Now, what are parabens? They are preservative agents that help ensure that bacteria or fungus does not grow in your skincare product. While they are highly effective, they also have a risk of allergy.  Fragrances are also a common cause of allergy.  They contain thousands of unknown chemicals, of which many of them can lead to irritation or allergic reactions.  However, if you really want a perfume, look into using essential oils, which are fragrant as well as effective.

3) Always wear a sunscreen:

The hot sun and UV rays can easily trigger sensitivity in your skin, so, starting your day with a good sunscreen is vital to protecting your complexion from this harmful effect. Look for broad-spectrum sunblock that includes anti-UVA and anti-UVB effect, SPF30 with PA++, or more will be fine. And, remember to reapply every 4 hours whether you are indoors or outdoors.

4) Make sure you stop your salon facials:

Sensitive skin tends to be more red and sensitive in reaction to manipulation or pressure. Salon facials, in addition to using 10 or more unknown skincare products within a single treatment, also usually involve a lot extractions or harsh processes. This can cause redness, pimples, marks, rashes and more. Stopping your facials will go a long way in protecting your sensitive skin from rashes, irritation or zits.

Dr Kiran Lohia is a well-known dermatologist and medical director of Lumiere Dermatology.