Dealing with sensitive skin can be challenging, but there are ways to manage and minimize the issues you face.
Here are some tips to help you in your battle with sensitive skin by SKNLogic:
Avoid hot water
A hot shower may feel fantastic during the colder months, but hot water is known to exasperate sensitivity. Most dermatologists recommend showering in warm water under 40 degrees. Not sure how to tell if the temperature is right? If your skin is flushed or red afterwards, the water was too hot.
Use a milky or creamy cleanser
Gel cleansers are great for oily skin (especially during summer), but they can sometimes strip dry and sensitive skins of moisture. We recommend using a milky or creamy cleanser as these have moisturising properties that will help retain the skin’s moisture. Try SKNLOGIC Gentle Cleanse Cream (R343.00), a gentle, pH balanced, soap-free, creamy cleanser that cleanses without disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier. It hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling conditioned and nourished.
Be aware of bacteria
Bacteria is all around us, and harmful breakout-causing bacteria lurks in more places than you may suspect. Be sure to change your pillowcase regularly as sweat and product build-up may irritate sensitive skin while you sleep. Wash your makeup brushes frequently and disinfect your cellphone daily – both are home to plenty of spot-causing bacteria.
Hydrate
Sensitive skin is prone to dehydration, so it’s essential to apply moisture-boosting skincare products that are gentle yet effective (and free from potentially harmful and harsh ingredients). Try SKNLOGIC Omega Face Oil (R265.00). This lightweight, non-greasy facial oil can be used as a moisturiser, treatment product or primer and is suitable for sensitive and compromised skin. It contains nourishing Omega 3, 5, 6, 7 & 9, vitamins C and E and ceramides.
Protect your skin from the sun
We know how dangerous the sun’s UV rays are for all skin types, and sensitive skin may be extra vulnerable to its powers. Try to avoid spending time outdoors during peak hours (10am – 2pm). If you do go outside, wear a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses and cover up with loose fitting clothing. And most importantly – always apply a broad spectrum SPF to exposed skin. SKNLOGIC Protect 40 (R305.00) is a broad spectrum sun protection cream that provides effective UVA and UVB protection and anti-ageing benefits.
Maintain a healthy diet
Sometimes sensitive skin is linked to certain foods in one’s diet, and sometimes it is not. The truth is that everyone’s skin, regardless of the different skin types, will benefit from a diet rich in fresh fruit and veg, lean protein, healthy fats and fibre. In some cases gluten and dairy have shown to affect sensitive skin, so if you’re prone to sensitivity, try to cut back.
Skincare regime
One of the most important factors in caring for sensitive skin is your choice of skincare products. Harsh ingredients and artificial fragrances or colourants are likely to aggravate sensitivity, as may some preservatives and additives. The key is to find a skincare range that offers effective products that are also gentle. SKNLOGIC products do not contain artificial colourants and fragrances, mineral oil, lanolin, parabens, Sulphates or S.D Alcohol, making them the perfect choice for sensitive and dry skins. SKNLOGIC products are made with the highest quality antioxidants, hydrators, moisturisers and natural ingredients to nourish and protect skin.
Also see: Kitchen ingredients that do wonders on your skin