You may have never really given much thought to the subtle distinction between sensitive skin and sensitized skin. While one is the result of genetics, the other is the result of your environment. Knowing the difference between the two types can make all the difference in how you care for your skin. Here are some ways to make the distinction between skin that is genetically predisposed to sensitivity and issues that can be easily corrected simply by improving certain habits.
Poor diet, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, exposure to air pollution, improper use of topical skin care products, and a veritable laundry list of other environmental factors can trigger inflammation and red, irritated skin, causing it to be sensitized. Many people can experience a higher level of sensitivity to topical ingredients if these factors are a part of their normal daily routine. Hot showers and alcohol-based skin products can also dehydrate and irritate skin, resulting in redness and skin that is sensitive to the touch.
Eating a collagen-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and fish can boost the production of collagen in your skin and ward against the effects of an unhealthy lifestyle. More importantly, limiting such behaviors as smoking and drinking altogether can help prevent sensitized skin. If you are noticing symptoms like redness and inflammation in your skin, a licensed esthetician can help you determine and help eliminate the triggers that are causing it to be sensitized. For people whose skin is sensitized from products being used topically, minimizing usage is recommended. Use less product each night or fewer times each week until the skin can build up a tolerance. Incorporating hydrating ingredients into your skin care regimen and using broad spectrum sunscreen can also help the skin become less sensitized.
Genetic predisposition causes sensitive skin, which usually manifests as persistent redness and flushed skin. When the epidermis is very thin, it is not as effective at blocking irritants and allergens, and redness, irritation, and allergies can easily occur. Exposure to UV rays can cause sensitive skin to burn easily as well. Rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis are common in those who have sensitive skin. Psoriasis causes red scaly patches accompanied by itchiness, while eczema and dermatitis present as a dry and itchy rash.
Sensitive skin conditions may sometimes require prescription medications, but if you use products at home that have a balance of active and soothing ingredients to improve the skin’s barrier function, you can also reduce the effects of these conditions. Try products that have salicylic acid to fight psoriasis, as it can break down the dead skin cells that build up and lead to the scaly patches you experience. Hydration is just as important in treating sensitive skin as it is in treating sensitized skin. Your licensed skin care professional can guide you to products that soothe and calm redness from sensitive skin conditions.
Final thoughts
Whether you were born with sensitive skin or your lifestyle has fostered sensitized skin, using products that address inflammation, dehydration, and a compromised barrier is important to promote healthier skin. Talk to the professionals at Laura Skin Care to find out which products are best for your type of skin.