Overview

If you do not know that you have sensitive skin, you may have a bad reaction to cosmetic products such as soaps, moisturizers and makeup. Sensitive skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including adverse reactions to products containing certain ingredients and UV light. People with sensitive skin can also locally react to chemicals, dyes and fragrances in products coming into contact with their skin. 

Some skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea and psoriasis can cause the skin to be red, dry and achy. Sensitive skin can also be highly reactive to soaps, detergents, dyes, fragrances and topical products, and incorrect application can lead to itching, dryness and redness.

What is sensitive skin, and how can you tell if you have it?

Sensitive is a vague term for features common to people with skin conditions like rosacea and eczema, says Lauren Fine, M.D., a dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology. Sensitive skin is used to describe skin with reduced tolerance for the use of cosmetics and personal care products. People who are aware of the appearance of visual irritation on the face are more likely to perceive their facial skin as sensitive.

Frank says stinging is a typical reaction to sensitive skin, and aesthetician Renee Rouleau notes that inflammation is another symptom of sensitive skin. While people with sensitive skin have a protective layer of fat, our skin is weak and thin and easily damaged, making it easier for irritants to penetrate and cause inflammation in the skin.

How do I know if my skin is sensitive?

If you do not know that you have sensitive skin, you may have a bad reaction to cosmetic products such as soaps, moisturizers and makeup. Sensitive skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including adverse reactions to products containing certain ingredients and UV light. People with sensitive skin can also locally react to chemicals, dyes and fragrances in products coming into contact with their skin. 

The skin's sensitivity to contact urticaria appears as redness and irritation after the application of a face of an ordinary cosmetic or skin care product, even after years of uneventful application of the product. Symptoms occur after application of the product to the skin and occur within hours or days.

What causes skin sensitivity?

Less common causes of sensitivity can range from age to weather and everything in between. With age, your skin loses moisture and can become dry and cracked, putting you at risk for sensitive skin.

Certain medications, especially ones that treat hypertension, can cause dehydration and thus dry, irritated skin. Hormonal changes, such as those during the menstrual cycle, can also affect the skin. If you have ever received cancer treatment, you might have noticed patches of dry, itchy skin as a side effect.  

Some skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea and psoriasis can cause the skin to be red, dry and achy. Sensitive skin can also be highly reactive to soaps, detergents, dyes, fragrances and topical products, and incorrect application can lead to itching, dryness and redness. 

Are there medical tests for sensitive skin?

It is very difficult for doctors to test sensitive skin, because so many factors can cause it. Patch tests can detect signs of allergies that can cause or contribute to sensitive skin.

What are some tips for caring for my sensitive skin, especially on my face?

Cleansing. It is best to use a cleanser based on oil or cream, preferably free of parabens, sulphates and strong acids, as these ingredients are known to trigger sensitive skin. 

Moisturizing. Use a moisturizer to protect your skin barrier and make it less likely to react to environmental irritants such as perfumes, dyes and clothing. Dry sensitive skin produces extra oil to compensate for the lack of natural moisture. Itching and tightness is another symptom of sensitivity, which can be exacerbated by frequent washing in hot water.

Takeaway

Usually, having sensitive skin is not a sign of a serious skin condition. Some people are simply more sensitive to products that come into contact with the skin. there are solutions for most of the causes. It’s helpful to remember that a quality moisturizer and a visit with your dermatologist are usually all it takes to find relief. Keep in mind any activities or environmental factors that seem to make your skin feel worse and develop a protection plan