If adding steps to your skincare routine frequently results in redness and irritation, you probably have sensitive skin. Those with sensitive skin know that more is not necessarily better when it comes to products. A cracked heel cream that works wonders for your feet may be too heavy for sensitive skin on delicate parts of the body. However, those with sensitive skin should still reap the benefits of a high-quality skincare routine. Here are the best tips for avoiding irritation and redness if you have sensitive skin.
Simplify Your Skincare Routine
The greater the number of products in your routine, the greater the chance one of the ingredients may cause irritation. Also, acids and other exfoliating ingredients may strip away too much of your already-thin skin barrier. Strip down your routine to the essentials, which are:
- Cleanser
- Serum or Toner
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
When selecting products, look for those with fewer ingredients. You can use supplement strips to get a boost of vitamins without adding more topical products to your routine.
Avoid Heavy Chemical Skincare Products
Certain chemicals in skincare are harsher than others. Dermatologists regularly test skincare ingredients to separate non-irritating choices from chemicals sensitive skin is less likely to tolerate. Make sure your cosmetics and creams are free from common irritants such as petroleum, parabens and benzoyl peroxide.
Avoid Scented Skincare Products
Fragrances can be huge triggers for sensitive skin, leading to minor allergic reactions. Buy unscented products to minimize the risk of irritation.
Wear Sunscreen
Sensitive skin can grow more red and irritated with tiny amounts of sun damage. This is because sunlight can break down the skin’s natural barrier which keeps irritants out. Wear a high-quality sunscreen every day to protect your skin. Instead of waterproof sunscreens, which can be thick and irritating, buy a cosmetic sunscreen that’s light and designed for everyday use.
Keep Skin Hydrated for a Stronger Skin Barrier
People with sensitive skin may have a compromised skin barrier, or a less effective layer of interlocked skin cells on the surface of their skin. Oils, ceramides and other hydrating ingredients can help strengthen a weak skin barrier for less irritation in the future.
Be Careful With Exfoliating Products
Many skincare products contain exfoliating ingredients. In people with typical skin barriers, skin cells can build up on the surface of the skin, dulling its appearance and preventing new growth. Exfoliants are often chemical ingredients that work on a molecular level to strip away excess skin cells and promote turnover.
Unfortunately, in people with sensitive skin, exfoliants can chip away at an already weak skin barrier. Avoid combining too many exfoliants in one routine, such as AHA, retinol, and salicylic acid.
Write Down Which Products Irritate Your Skin
Keep a journal of the products your skin doesn’t like and write down their ingredients. This way, you can cross-reference to find specific skincare ingredients you may be minorly allergic to and avoid them in the future.
You can still enjoy a luxury skincare routine such as nicole kidman skin care if you have sensitive skin. Simply pare back your routine, read labels carefully and take care of your skin barrier.
