Five Tips for Looking After Sensitive Skin

A lot of people think that they have sensitive skin when they have problems after using a certain product or were exposed to the sun. However, more often than not, the reason behind the blotchy skin and spots is using inappropriate products for the skin type and general bad skin habits. Following a reaction to sun exposure or using a product it’s a good idea to determine if sensitive skin is really the cause or if it is something else.

How to tell if you have sensitive skin?

Generally sensitive skin is thin with visible broken capillaries under the surface. Sensitive skin also has fine pores. When exposed to moderate changes in temperature, sensitive skin reddens easily, whether from cold or heat. Sensitive skin tends to rash easily when exposed to household chemicals or even moderate strength skin care products. If skin shows these signs chances are high that it is sensitive skin. For a thorough skin assessment a visit to the GP or a dermatologist is called for.

Since caring for sensitive skin can be quite difficult, it is advisable to limit the use of skincare products. Generally, simple skincare regimes are more appropriate for sensitive skin as it prevents product overload. Sensitive skincare relies on strengthening the skin to reduce sensitivity and increase tolerance.

How to care for sensitive skin?

1. Hydrate the skin

Sensitive skin is prone to dryness which can lead to increased sensitivity. Drinking plenty of fluids and applying a lightweight and hypoallergenic moisturiser daily can help restore skin’s moisture levels and the lipid barrier that acts as defence mechanism against allergens.

2. Eat skin-friendly food

Fruits, vegetables, and other water-rich foods are essential in correcting skin imbalances. The vitamin, mineral, and water content of these foods hydrate skin and restore its health. However eating spicy food and drinking alcohol and caffeinated drinks will increase skin’s sensitivity.

3. Limit sun exposure

Sun exposure can cause sensitive skin to redden and burn easily. Before going out applying sun protection on the face and body is a sensible precaution. Protection can be extended to the lips to prevent them from darkening by applying an SPF-rich lip balm under lipstick or gloss. Sunglasses and a hat protect the head, body, eyes and face from overexposure to the sun.

4. Protect skin at all times

Even when indoors skin still needs protection from the effects of air-conditioned and central heating. A lightweight moisturiser applied frequently will prevent skin from drying out due to temperature extremes.

5. Avoid products with artificial colours and synthetic fragrances

Colorants and fragrances are added to skincare products to increase their customer appeal but generally provide no benefit to skin. In many cases they even cause allergic reactions and increase skin sensitivity.

The Cosmiko range of skincare products have been developed specifically to prevent damage to all skin types and the active ingredients in our sensitive skin range with help restore skin health and protect users from environmental factors.