by MARSHALL BONE
Sensitive skin is an issue for many people, one that can cause physical and emotional pain on many levels. From itching, burning skin to unsightly flaky red patches, having reactive skin is a problem that isn’t always easy to solve. The most dramatic cases of sensitive skin can even leave a person on the sidelines, keeping them from participating in activities they can enjoy due to discomfort or embarrassment. Even though hypersensitive skin can be a burden, there are a number of solutions that can provide relief for even the driest, most irritated skin.
What is Sensitive or Reactive Skin?
Reactive or sensitive skin is a common skin condition that many people experience. With sensitive skin, the skin has an intense reaction to certain triggers like changes in temperature or chemicals. This reaction to external stimuli can produce exaggerated results like bumps, redness or a variety of skin irritations.
A compromised skin barrier is often the culprit when it comes to reactive skin or skin irritations. When the outermost layer of the skin comes in contact with irritants, a reaction may follow in those with sensitive skin. Most of the time, the cause of the irritation is a normal, everyday stimuli that wouldn’t typically bother other skin types.
Common skin irritation symptoms include:
- Itching
- Burning
- Stinging
- Redness
- Bumps/rash
What Causes a Sensitivity Reaction?
While a good diet, good sleep, and managing stress can do wonders for your skin, sometimes those with sensitive skin have no control over their reactions. External and internal triggers can bring on unexpected skin irritations for a variety of reasons.
Some common external skin irritation triggers:
- Skincare ingredients with harsh chemicals or fragrances
- Certain synthetic or natural fabrics (like itchy wool or silk)
- Weather and environmental factors like changes in temperature and pollutants.
Some common internal skin irritation triggers:
- Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menopause or menstruation
- Diet, especially alcohol or spicy foods can manifest sensitivity issues
- Stress and emotional distress can trigger a reaction
In many cases, genetics or underlying health factors may also be to blame for skin sensitivity issues. Talk to your relatives if you can and see if anyone else in your family tree has experienced similar skin irritation issues. You may be surprised to find out that you’re not alone in your itchy, irritated skin problems.
Simply knowing your triggers and avoiding certain things can help to minimize irritations and help you be more comfortable in your own skin. However, some things like weather, environment or hereditary issues can’t be avoided. Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can face this uncomfortable condition head on.
How to Care for Sensitive or Reactive Skin
Gentle skincare is essential when it comes to caring for sensitive or reactive skin. There are a variety of topical solutions for those with reactive skin to explore including stem cell skincare products. Skincare products made with stem cells are non-comedogenic and free from harsh chemicals are the best option for those with sensitive skin.
Alternative topicals like CBD oil are also rising in popularity for its skincare and health benefits. The texture of CBD oil is easily absorbed into the skin allowing it to provide optimal hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Keeping a good skincare regimen is important for those who want to avoid irritation. Our daily regimen may need to change from season to season depending on the weather, our activities, what we are wearing, or even our location.
Practicing good skincare means something different for everyone, but for those with sensitive skin, self-care can’t be ignored. If you know your skin is more sensitive than most, your anti-irritant daily regimen should include:
- Sun Protection: Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration means dry skin. Drink plenty of fluids to help avoid drying your skin out.
- Gentle Skincare: Find the right lotions and topical solutions for your unique skincare issues.
- Avoid Using Irritants: Ensure that your shampoos, fragrances, laundry detergents, and cleaners are all free of irritating ingredients.
- Limit Hot Showers: If heat is one of your skin irritant triggers, lower the temperature of your bath or limit bathing.
When all else fails, or if the problem worsens, consult a dermatologist or allergen specialist. If your irritation becomes severe or persists, be sure to seek medical advice.
Identifying sensitive skin and the specific internal or external factors that lead to irritation is the first step in your comfortable skin journey. Don’t let itch or red skin hold you back; take control, make a few changes, and enjoy living in your own skin.
Marshall Bone is a writer, copy strategist and all-around stylish guy who has been following trends in GQ for more than two decades. Voted best-dressed both his junior and senior year, Bone has continued this legacy and can be found covering various topics from men’s fashion to self care and grooming. He enjoys reading and is based in the greater Los Angeles area.
