Most recently updated 1/12/21

My first trip to the dermatologist’s office took place when I was about eight years old. Yes, I had a forward-thinking mother. But I also had… eczema. It itched and discolored my skin and generally tormented me. 

After I graduated from college I also graduated to breakouts and rashes. My then-boyfriend – who was applying to medical school – helpfully diagnosed me with “urticaria,” or hives. 

By then, my lifelong obsession with sensitive skin was well under way. 

If you struggle with skin that’s easily irritated, I’m here to tell you that you’re not alone. More than 4 in 10 women struggle with allergies or skin sensitivities that affect their choice of skincare and makeup.

So, let’s get into the good, the bad, and a few simple “what to do’s” when it comes to sensitive skin.

What is sensitive skin?

I think of it as skin that lets you know it’s there. Breakouts, acne, redness, itchiness, discoloration, stinging and discomfort, anyone? 

Technically speaking, “sensitive skin” means the skin’s natural barrier function – its ability to heal, protect, and rebalance itself – is compromised or weakened. 

Triggers can include extreme weather (think heat, cold, wind, and very dry air), environmental irritants like air pollution and cigarette smoke – and lifestyle triggers like lack of sleep, hormonal changes, and stress. 

There can also be underlying conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema, like I had as a child. 

Or just getting older. Your skin gets thinner as you age, which also makes it easier to irritate. The lipid layer (a fancy phrase for the skin barrier) gets replenished at a lower rate, increasing sensitivity.

And of course there’s the big one: the products you put on your skin.

While many women have no idea what makes their skin go haywire, I’m here to give you some good news, and a sense of control when it comes to sensitive skin.

Is there anything I can do to reduce skin reactions?  

I’m happy to report that in general, when you transition to clean beauty, the majority of skin problems clear up. This is because clean beauty products leave out the worst stuff – like excess fragrance and dirty SPF actives. So, most women just do better with clean products even if we never figure out why.

Any ingredients I should look out for specifically? 

Here’s a handy list of common cosmetics irritants you should be wary of: fragrance, retinoids, antibacterial ingredients, SLS and SLES, harsh exfoliants like salicylic and glycolic acid, isopropyl alcohol, preservatives such as methylisothiazolinone, and chemical sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreens are not only questionable for your skin; they’re not great for your health or the environment. Choose physical sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as its active ingredient. These clean actives deflect the sun’s UV rays and sit on top of your skin instead of getting absorbed. Learn more about clean SPF here.

And remember that tanning, not to mention burning, can damage your skin. So don’t spend long periods lying in the sun, even if you’re wearing sunscreen.

Another common irritant is waterproof cosmetics. Avoid most liquid eyeliners because they often contain latex, a known irritant. NakedPoppy’s Clean Liquid Eyeliner, however, is latex-free. 

Be sure to dispose of old cosmetics, as contaminated or unstable cosmetics can create skin irritation (and in rare cases, worse). Not sure how to tell if your makeup has expired? Learn more here.

Finally, remember that skin dryness can exacerbate sensitive skin. Don’t scrub too hard, cleanse more than once per day, or bathe in hot water.

Got it on the don’ts. What are the do’s?

Seek out skin nourishers like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and avocado oil. With sensitive skin, it’s more difficult to retain water, which is why your skin can get dry. Main takeaway? Moisturize often. 

You can also make some simple changes to your daily routine:

  • Take shorter baths and showers. Make sure the water is warm, not hot.
  • Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and laundry detergents.
  • Don’t overheat your living space in cold weather. 
  • Wash and dry your face and body gently. Pat down with a towel instead of rubbing.
  • Patch-test new products behind your ear for at least 24 hours before applying to your face to see if your skin agrees with the ingredients.

You didn’t mention hypoallergenic products. Why not?

Because they don’t mean anything. There’s no definition or government standard for the term “hypoallergenic.” In other words, it’s a marketing claim and nothing more.

I hope these simple tips help you treat – and love – the sensitive skin you’re in.  

Of course, you should see a dermatologist for your personal diagnosis, as well as to determine the best protocol for you. This is especially true if you suspect any kind of underlying medical condition.

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