How To Manage Sensitive Skin: In a world overflowing with advice on everything from the intricacies of a multi-step skincare regimen to the transformative effects of retinoids and achieving the coveted ‘glass skin’ look, it’s easy to get lost in the whirlwind of trends and products. However, for individuals with sensitive skin, succumbing to the latest craze, excessive use of active ingredients and overcomplicating their routine with numerous products can prove to be harmful and can further compromise their skin barrier. Let’s understand sensitive skin conditions better and the need for a simplistic routine to better manage this condition. 

Dr Jaishree Sharad, Internationally renowned celebrated cosmetic dermatologist, founder of Skinfinitii aesthetic skin and laser clinic, TEDx speaker and author explains how people with sensitive skin can manage and take care of their skin. 

Decoding Sensitive Skin Conditions: Why It Requires Special Care

Before delving into the merits of a simplistic approach, let's grasp the essence of sensitive skin. A prevalent condition affecting approximately 71% of adults worldwide, sensitive skin arises when the skin's natural barrier function is compromised, resulting in symptoms like redness, itching, dryness or a burning sensation. Harsh ingredients, irritants from fragrances, extensive sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, and hormonal imbalances can further aggravate these symptoms. 

Sensitive skin is also less tolerant to frequent and prolonged use of cosmetics and toiletries. The lifestyle change and increased usage of brands of cosmetics and toiletries can increase skin sensitivity including smarting, burning, stinging, itching, and/or tight sensation in their facial skin.

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Over-the-counter (OTC) products, containing potent ingredients like retinol and glycolic acid can further agitate an already irritated skin barrier, leading to more pronounced flare-ups. Therefore, purchasing OTC skincare products without expert consultation or understanding the scientific rationale behind formulations is particularly detrimental to sensitive skin.

Things To Avoid When Suffering From Sensitive Skin

A gentle skincare routine centred around cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection is imperative to repair, shield, and sustain a healthy skin moisture barrier. When curating a daily regimen, prioritise hypoallergenic, gentle or mild products devoid of harsh ingredients, helping you strike a balance between enhancing skin health and minimising irritation. Refrain from formulations containing sulphates, parabens, dyes, and strong fragrances, and instead, seek ingredients scientifically formulated and known for their soothing properties.

Tips For Sensitive Skin (Image Credits: Canva)

Guide To Better Manage Sensitive Skin

Oats at the heart of a skincare regime: Embrace a gentle, moisturising skincare routine incorporating products enriched with colloidal oatmeal to replenish lost moisture as well as restore the skin’s moisture barrier. 

Need a holistic skincare regime: For people with sensitive skin, they must incorporate colloidal oatmeal across their daily routine through a broad spectrum of products including cleansers, body washes bath soaks, moisturising creams, lotions and more. 

Gentle care and products: Remember, gentleness is paramount when it comes to caring for sensitised skin. Opt for gentle cleansers and moisturisers devoid of harsh chemicals, colours and fragrances to minimise irritation. Moreover, while a lengthy, hot shower may seem appealing, shorter baths with tepid water are gentler on the skin. Avoid abrasive loofahs or rough exfoliating brushes, as they can further exacerbate skin conditions. Post-shower, seal the moisture with a hydrating oat-based body moisturiser. 

Sun Protection: Safeguard your skin against the sun's harmful rays by applying a Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen or higher. 

Additionally, a well-balanced diet coupled with adequate exercise and sleep will only serve to complement the overall skincare regime.

For individuals with sensitive skin, crafting an appropriate daily routine may demand additional time and effort, however by embracing a gentle and simple approach to skincare with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal can be a gamechanger, yielding transformative results to improved skin health and overall strengthened skin barrier. 

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