Sensitive Skin

What is sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is often used to describe skin that is more prone to inflammation or adverse reactions. Individuals with sensitive skin are more likely to experience redness, itch, and dryness. They also react more to products typically well-tolerated by others or may react more to stimuli such as sun exposure, physical stress, or extremes in temperature.

Sensitive skin is not a serious condition on its own; however, it may be a secondary symptom of another condition that requires attention. This can include eczema, rosacea, contact dermatitis, lupus, etc. Sensitive skin usually indicates a compromised skin barrier (stratum corneum). As such, treatment involves identifying the trigger that led to skin sensitivity and proactive steps to repair the damaged barrier.

Signs of sensitive skin

Some signs of sensitive skin include:

• Appearance of rough, dry, and dull patches
• Redness and swelling on the skin
• Itch, burning, or stinging sensation in the skin
• Red bumps or small tiny pustules on the face when irritation is severe

Who is at risk of sensitive skin?

Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of sensitive skin, and individuals with the following characteristics are more prone to experiencing skin sensitivity:

• Genetic predisposition: a family history of sensitive skin may increase your likelihood of having similar skin traits.
• Pre-existing skin conditions: individuals with eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, or other skin disorders may have compromised skin barriers, heightening skin sensitivity.
• Environmental exposure: frequent exposure to harsh weather conditions, pollution, or extreme temperatures can contribute to skin sensitivity.
• Frequent product use: overuse of skincare products, especially those containing harsh chemicals or fragrances, can trigger skin reactions.
• Hormonal fluctuations: changes in hormonal levels, such as during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, may make the skin more reactive.
• Ageing: as skin ages, it tends to become thinner and loses some protective elements, increasing vulnerability to sensitivity.

How is sensitive skin diagnosed?

Diagnosing sensitive skin involves a thorough examination by your dermatologist. The process typically includes:

• Thorough medical history: detailing your medical history helps identify any underlying conditions or genetic factors contributing to skin sensitivity. Communicating specific symptoms such as redness, itching, or burning sensations assists in understanding the nature and triggers of skin sensitivity.
• Skincare product review: analysing your products helps identify potential irritants, ensuring they align with sensitive skin requirements. We know how confusing selecting products from a plethora of options can be. We believe in the mantra “less is more” and will help you with a skincare routine to accommodate sensitive skin.
• Patch testing: this involves applying small amounts of common allergens to the skin to observe reactions and pinpoint specific sensitivities.
• Elimination diet: a blood test can be conducted for cases related to food allergies. Eliminating certain foods and gradually reintroducing them may help identify potential triggers.

A comprehensive evaluation of these factors enables an accurate diagnosis, guiding a personalised skincare approach tailored to address sensitive skin concerns.

What are the treatment options for sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin management is a multi-faceted approach, blending lifestyle adjustments and dermatological treatments. Treatment options for sensitive skin include:

• Tailoring a skincare routine suitable for sensitive skin.
• Prescription topicals such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (pimecrolimus, tacrolimus) and PDE inhibitors (crisaborole) can be applied to help calm the skin in a safe and evidence-based manner.
• With their anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, polynucleotide treatments help calm the skin down quickly and repair the skin barrier from within.
• Skin boosters and 5-point bioremodelling hyaluronic acid injections can provide deep hydration and barrier repair, boosting skin health.

Frequently asked questions

Is sensitive skin dry or oily?

Sensitive skin can be either dry or oily. It does not conform to a specific skin type. Proper identification and tailored skincare are key to managing sensitive skin effectively.

What does sensitive skin feel like? How can I tell if I have sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin often starts with symptoms. You may experience itching, burning, or stinging when using certain skincare products or exposure to harsh environments. After washing your face, your skin can feel tight and “raw.” Due to the discomfort, you may find yourself needing to soothe affected areas. With time, you may notice visible rashes on the face, such as dry, parched skin, redness, and even little pus-filled bumps.

Should I avoid makeup if I have sensitive skin?

Avoiding makeup could give your skin a much-needed break. However, if this is not feasible, opt for makeup labelled "hypoallergenic" or "suitable for sensitive skin." Avoid products with harsh chemicals or fragrances. Prioritise mineral-based makeup and apply small amounts to test patches on the back of the ear (repeat open application test) to ensure compatibility before applying it to your face.

How can I soothe irritated and sensitive skin?

To soothe irritated sensitive skin, it's essential to keep the skin hydrated, use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products, and avoid known irritants. Applying cool, moist compresses can calm inflammation. Over-the-counter creams with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, centella asiatica, or other calming botanicals can provide relief. Consult a dermatologist for tailored advice and potential prescription treatments if irritation persists.