If you are prone to redness, itchy skin, blotchy patches, or if your skin gets irritated easily, then you probably have sensitive skin. People who experience eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or allergic contact dermatitis also fall under this category. Sensitive skin is described as that type of skin that is “hyper-reactive to environmental factors”. This means that when people with sensitive skin come into contact with cosmetics, soaps, and sunscreens, or are exposed to a dry and cold climate, their skin flares up resulting in reactions like frequent itching, burning sensation, or reddish-brown patches. There is no standard treatment for sensitive skin. Options can range from the use of skin care products to dermatology treatments for more serious conditions (when at-home treatments don’t provide any relief).

Can Skin Care Help with Sensitive Skin?

A good skin care routine is necessary for a youthful complexion and healthy skin, no matter what type of skin you have—dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, you need to be more careful about what you can put on your face and body. One of the best ways to manage and soothe your sensitive skin at home is to use a skin care routine with the right products and regimen. These products are specifically formulated for sensitive skin, keeping your skin calm, balanced, and non-irritated. The products are usually fragrance-free and don’t contain any potential allergens or irritants.

Best Ingredients for Sensitive Skin

With sensitive skin, it’s difficult to know which products will affect you and cause a reaction. That’s why it’s a good idea to know what ingredients work best for sensitive skin and which ones to avoid. Sensitive skin needs soothing products that strengthen your skin, making it less reactive and more capable of coping with irritants. Here are some ingredients best suited for sensitive skin:

Aloe Vera

This succulent is known for its hydrating and soothing properties and is used in facial cleansers and moisturizers. Aloe vera’s cooling properties are useful for sunburn and mild irritation. It helps soothe redness, infection, itchiness, and rash, making it a valuable ingredient for eczema. It is also helpful in healing wounds and reducing scars, as it boosts collagen production while fighting bacteria. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects, aloe vera can be used for acne, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Green Tea

Green tea has a range of therapeutic properties and can nourish and hydrate the skin. It is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and slows the signs of aging. According to research, it can also help repair DNA damage caused by the sun’s harmful UV rays, thus protecting your skin from cancer. Because of the high content of polyphenols in green tea, it has strong anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce irritation, swelling, and redness. Studies also show that it is a beneficial ingredient for psoriasis, dermatitis, and rosacea.

Hyaluronic Acid

Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid which is found in your hair and skin. Known for its anti-aging and skin-nourishing properties, it can be used for any skin type, especially for sensitive skin, as it does not cause irritation. It also protects the skin from free radicals, helps repair damaged skin, and can help heal wounds. Hyaluronic Acid is commonly used in moisturizers as a humectant, as it holds large volumes of water and helps hydrate the outer layers of the skin. However, dermatologists recommend staying away from any product with over two percent concentration of hyaluronic acid, as it can cause irritation and dryness.

Glycerin

This is a naturally occurring compound in the body, but when used in skin care, it is derived from plants. Glycerin is generally safe to use on all skin types and unlikely to cause any irritation. It is a humectant and draws moisture into the outer layers of the skin, keeping the top layers of your skin hydrated. This means it relieves dry and dehydrated skin provided you are using diluted glycerin and not pure glycerin on your skin. This skin-replenishing ingredient keeps your skin calm and reduces redness and irritation and is a gentle ingredient for sensitive skin.

Laminaria Saccharina

Laminaria saccharina extract is derived from yellow/brown algae and is a rich source of carotenoids and polysaccharides, making it a good antioxidant and anti-aging ingredient. Good for sensitive skin, Laminaria saccharina improves skin hydration, helps to regulate the function of the sebaceous glands, and has the potential to improve superficial skin imperfections.

Edelweiss Extract

Edelweiss extract is a plant extract and another excellent ingredient for sensitive skin. It contains skin-calming polyphenols and has antioxidant benefits besides being antibacterial, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-blemish. Edelweiss extract also contains leontopodic acid, a compound that strengthens the skin’s barriers and reduces sensitivity, making your skin more resistant to airborne pollutants and other environmental irritants.

Ceramides

Ceramides are a class of fatty acids called lipids and are naturally found in skin cells, making up nearly 50% of the outer layer of your skin. They form a protective barrier, preserving moisture and keeping your skin from dryness and irritation. Ceramides also protect your skin from environmental aggressors and help repair the bonds in the outer layer of the skin so that it is less irritated.

Other ingredients that may be helpful for sensitive skin are:

• Vitamin E
• Chamomile extract
• Shea butter
• Squalene
• Olea europaea (derived from olive oil)

Skin Care Routine for Sensitive Skin

A skin care routine is essential for any skin type, which follows an overall regimen of cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen before stepping out. For sensitive skin, this regimen should include a few products with simple ingredients. The key to choosing the right products is knowing the ingredients and choosing the ones that best suit your sensitive skin. It is highly recommended to do a patch test before you use any product, even if it comprises natural ingredients. Below are simple steps you can take to look after your sensitive skin every day:

Remove makeup (Night)

It’s essential to remove makeup with particular attention to sensitive areas like around the eyes. Use a gentle makeup remover that is fragrance and oil-free, and contains calming ingredients like aloe vera.

Cleanse (Morning & Night)

Daily cleansing is important to remove dirt and debris that can get trapped in your pores and to remove dead skin cells. Use a gentle cleanser formulated for sensitive skin. Gently clean your face with your fingers and wash afterward with cool to lukewarm water. Avoid hot water as it will dry your skin and irritate it further. It is advisable not to use brushes and washcloths as they can be harsh.

Tone (Morning & Night)

A toner gets rid of any residual dirt or dead skin cells. It also balances the skin’s pH levels. Apply a gentle toner with calming ingredients on your face using a cotton pad. Steer clear of any toners with alcohol or astringent.

Moisturize (Morning & Night)

Moisturizing your skin is an important step, as it creates a protective barrier against environmental irritants and keeps your skin hydrated. In the morning use a lightweight moisturizer, while in the evening apply a slight heavier formula. Overall, use a non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free cream, gel, or water-based moisturizer.

Sunscreen (Morning)

Apply sunscreen of at least an SPF of 30 every morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays which can cause sunburn and damage to your skin. Sun damage can weaken the skin barrier and increase skin sensitivity and irritation. Reapply sunscreen again throughout the day if you are outside. Choose a sunscreen with zinc oxide, as zinc is known for its calming properties.

Face Mask (Weekly)

A face mask gives your sensitive skin an extra boost of hydration if used sparingly. Use a gentle face mask that is calming and soothing to your skin with ingredients that repair damage and reduce redness such as chamomile or aloe vera.

Looking After Your Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin requires special care. You need to be aware of the ingredients in the products you use and know how you use the products. Now that you know some ingredients for sensitive skin, you can incorporate a few simple products into your daily skin care routine. This will help you prevent any breakouts or irritation and keep your skin healthy and looking good. However, it is advisable to patch-test any products you choose to use. Check with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any serious skin conditions or are experiencing any extreme reactions to the products.