There are many people who live with sensitive skin and find it difficult to find the right remedies or habits to treat it. This is most likely because they do not know what causes their sensitive skin and therefore cannot get to the root of the problem. Understanding the characteristics of sensitive skin and its triggers is crucial to implementing proper care and treatment. In the following post we will tell you the possible causes of sensitive skin, the available treatments and effective strategies to improve it.

What is sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is skin that is more reactive to factors that do not cause discomfort in normal skin. It is a type of skin that tends to present symptoms such as redness or rashes, as well as invisible sensations such as burning, itching or stinging. Sensitive skin tends to overreact to internal and external factors, including changes in the weather, chemicals, emotional stress, fabrics, etc.

What causes skin hypersensitivity?

Skin hypersensitivity is a complex condition caused by a variety of factors interacting with each other:

Environmental factors

Sudden changes in temperature, such as moving from a cold to a hot environment, can cause erythema and discomfort. Prolonged exposure to the sun, especially without adequate protection, damages the skin barrier and triggers inflammatory reactions. In addition, air pollution, which includes fine particles and chemicals, exacerbates skin sensitivity as these irritants penetrate the epidermis and cause inflammation.

Psychological factors

Intense emotions, such as stress, anxiety and anger, have a direct impact on skin health. During moments of emotional stress, the body releases hormones such as cortisol, which alter the skin barrier function and increase sensitivity. This relationship between emotional state and skin health is an often underestimated aspect in the management of hypersensitivity.

External factors

Exposure to cleaning products, cosmetics and other everyday products that contain irritating ingredients causes adverse skin reactions. For example, detergents with strong fragrances, alcohols and preservatives damage the skin barrier and trigger irritation. Likewise, spicy foods and alcohol contribute to skin inflammation, causing redness and discomfort.

Hormonal factors

Some people experience increased skin sensitivity during certain times of the hormonal cycle, such as the menstrual cycle, suggesting that hormonal fluctuations interfere with the formation of hypersensitivity.

How do I know if I have sensitive skin? Symptoms

To know if you are a person with sensitive skin or not, you should pay attention to the following symptoms:

• Redness : One of the most obvious signs of sensitive skin is redness, which often manifests as blushing in specific areas of the face or all over the body.
• Irritation and itching : A person with sensitive skin will experience itching or irritation sensations on a regular basis, varying in intensity.
• Dryness : Sensitive skin tends to be more prone to dryness and flaking, due to a lack of hydration that makes the skin feel tight and rough to the touch.
• Reactions to skin care products : If you experience acne breakouts, rashes, or irritation after using new skin care products, it may be an indication that your skin is sensitive.
• Reactivity to environmental factors : As mentioned above, sensitive skin overreacts to changes in the environment, such as extreme temperatures (hot or cold), wind, sun exposure, and pollution. If you notice that your skin gets irritated or reddens easily when exposed to these factors, you probably have sensitive skin.

Treatments for sensitive skin

Sensitive skin treatment should be determined by a dermatologist who has studied the case. Although people with this condition share symptoms or causes, they will not necessarily share treatments. Having clarified this, we tell you what they may be:

Steroid creams

These creams, which can be over-the-counter or prescription, such as hydrocortisone, are effective in reducing inflammation and relieving itchiness associated with sensitive skin. However, it is important to note that steroid creams should not be applied to the face unless specifically directed by a doctor, as overuse in this area can cause adverse effects.

Analgesic creams

Numbing creams are useful in reducing the itching sensation on the skin. By reducing discomfort, these creams help prevent the person from scratching and worsening the skin irritation. It is essential to follow the dermatologist's recommendations on use and frequency of application.

Antihistamines

For those who experience allergic reactions that contribute to skin sensitivity, taking an oral antihistamine often provides relief. These medications help control the immune system's response to allergens, reducing itching and other associated symptoms.

Sunscreen

Sun protection is vital for those with sensitive skin, as exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays aggravates irritation and inflammation. Ideally, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. This not only protects the skin from sun damage, but also prevents redness and burning that can exacerbate sensitivity.

How to care for sensitive skin?

Of course, medications or creams prescribed by a doctor are important for treating sensitive skin, but they are not the only thing that works. Habits are also very important for caring for sensitive skin. In this regard, the following is recommended:

Wear quality clothing

Choosing the right clothing is essential for the care of sensitive skin. It is recommended to avoid irritating fabrics such as wool and synthetics (such as polyester and polyamide), which can trigger itching and other symptoms in people with atopic skin or dermatitis.

Opt for clothes made of organic cotton

Organic cotton is softer and free of harmful pesticides and chemicals. It is grown sustainably, which not only benefits the health of your skin, but also the environment. If you have a severe degree of sensitivity, consider wearing organic cotton clothing in a natural color, without dyes, as these garments are even purer and more natural. At Clotsy , in addition to creating garments made of organic cotton, we have the OEKO-TEX 100 certification that assures you that what you buy is free of chemical cultures or irritating substances.

Use mild laundry detergents

The type of detergent you use will influence the health of your skin. Opt for mild detergents that do not contain perfumes, allergens, strong alcohols, etc. Avoid fabric softeners, as these products leave residues on clothes that come into contact with the skin and cause allergic reactions.

Don't overload your washing machine

Don't overload the washing machine drum, as this will make it difficult to agitate and rinse properly. Also, use only the recommended amount of detergent, as using more does not guarantee a better clean and may leave residue on the fibres.

Avoid long, hot showers

Long, hot showers strip away natural oils from your skin, leaving it more prone to irritation and dryness. It's best to opt for quick, lukewarm showers, and if possible, rinse with cool water at the end to soothe your skin.

Dry gently

Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel after showering, as this causes friction and irritation. Instead, pat dry and use cotton towels that are soft and absorbent.

Moisturize your skin immediately after showering.

The best time to apply moisturizer is right after you get out of the shower, when your skin is still damp. Choose creams with soothing, fragrance-free ingredients, such as oatmeal, aloe vera, or ceramides, which help lock in moisture without irritating.

Protect your skin from the sun every day

Apply a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with at least SPF 30 containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide every day, even if you're not leaving the house. These ingredients are less irritating than chemical filters.

Use a humidifier in winter

Dry air from heating in winter makes the skin even drier. A humidifier helps to keep the humidity in the air, which reduces dryness and prevents the appearance of redness or itching on sensitive skin.

Avoid using harsh exfoliating products

Over-exfoliation weakens the skin's natural barrier, which aggravates sensitivity. If you must exfoliate, choose gentle products, such as enzyme exfoliants or mild acids, and reduce the frequency to once a week or even less.

Reduce stress

Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or simply making sure you get a good night's sleep helps keep the nervous system balanced, reducing skin reactivity.

Is sensitive skin a permanent condition?

Sensitive skin is not always a permanent condition, although it may be chronic in some people. Skin sensitivity varies depending on factors such as genetics, lifestyle, environment, and other underlying health conditions. In many cases, sensitive skin is the result of a temporary response to external triggers, such as those mentioned above.

With proper care and management of triggers, it is possible to improve skin tolerance and reduce sensitivity over time. Many people experience significant improvements by adopting a skincare routine tailored to their skin.

When should I see a specialist?

If you suspect that you have sensitive skin, even if it is only mild, the best thing you can do is go to the dermatologist. Why? Because even if the symptoms are mild, this professional will be able to identify what is happening to you and make the necessary recommendations to help you alleviate the problem.

Now, if after reading this post you have realized that you have most of the symptoms and that they also occur permanently, you should make an appointment with the doctor as soon as possible, because you are probably someone with sensitive skin and the sooner you start treating yourself, the better.

Conclusion

In short, sensitive skin, while it can be frustrating and challenging, is not always a permanent condition and can be managed with proper care. From medical treatments to home remedies to wearing natural clothing, there are many strategies to ease discomfort and prevent adverse reactions. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to seek the guidance of a specialist for a more personalized treatment.