How to Care for Sensitive Skin
Improving our appearance and feeling good about ourselves is something we’ve all wanted at one time or another. However, achieving this can be difficult when you have sensitive skin; especially when products advertised on TV and social media tend to be aimed at ‘normal’ skin. Read on to discover tips for caring for your sensitive skin with ease, from using a dermatologist-recommended and similarly specialized products, to adapting your shower habits.
Pick out the right products for your skincare routine
Many brands advertise products for ‘normal’ skin, but there are plenty of options for sensitive skin available! These include everything from dermatologist-recommended deodorant to sunscreen designed specifically for sensitive skin. It’s simply a matter of paying a little more attention when shopping for your skin. The best products for sensitive skin are those that offer hypoallergenic options as well as products with low or no added fragrance.
Pick out the right products to use around your home
It's not only the products you use directly on your skin, but also the cleaning products you choose to use for your home and laundry detergent for your clothes that can cause flare-ups for sensitive skin. Make sure you wear rubber gloves when using products containing any chemicals; or alternatively have a go at making homemade cleaners using natural ingredients that will be kinder to your sensitive skin.
Change up your shower habits
Long, hot showers (or baths) may help to soothe aching muscles, but they can wreak havoc on sensitive skin, as can using the wrong shower products. Firstly, aim to keep the water temperature between 90° and 105° F. Secondly, avoid taking showers longer than 5-10 minutes or if you’ve chosen instead to go for a bath, try not to soak in it for longer than 15 minutes. Finally, when it comes to choosing your products, avoid body scrubs, and opt for a gentle body wash designed for sensitive skin.
Reduce the exfoliating and don't forget to moisturize
Exfoliating is a great way to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, but using gritty cleansers can do more harm than good and irritate sensitive skin. You’ll be surprised by how effective warm water with a soft washcloth and gentle cleanser can be. However, some exfoliating products, such as those with lactic acid, can be safe to use on sensitive skin. Moisturizing is key to healthy, fresh, glowing skin – especially if you’re prone to sensitive skin caused by conditions like eczema. When it comes to choosing your moisturizer, just make sure you pick one which is suitable for sensitive skin!
Sensitive skin doesn’t have to be painful or difficult to care for. You just need to have the right tips, the best products and a little know-how to enjoy a good skin day, every day!