Looking for a skincare routine for sensitive skin? We’ve got you covered.
Wecasa’s team of expert beauty therapists have all the tea on how to identify sensitive skin and choose skin care that soothes.
What is Sensitive Skin?
You might have heard of sensitive skin before – but what does it really mean? Sensitive skin is a condition where someone’s skin is prone to irritation and reactions. It’s a term used in the beauty industry to help identify skin care for sensitive skin that might help irritation, or cause it.
Identifying Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can look red, inflamed, flaky, or hot to the touch. It tends to feel itchy, burning, or a kind of tightness. No fun at all!
Common Irritants and Triggers
Sensitive skin can vary from person to person. There’s no one-size-fits-all list of things that definitely will or definitely won’t cause a reaction.
That being said, there are a few factors that we know can increase the risk of a reaction:
- Extreme cold temperatures or hot temperatures
- Having a damaged skin barrier
- Skin conditions like eczema or rosacea
- Allergens in laundry detergents or cosmetics
- Harsh ingredients and chemicals
How to Determine if You Have Sensitive Skin?
If you think you may have sensitive skin but you’re not sure, it’s important to find out so that you can properly look after it.
Symptoms and Signs
Some of the most common signs of sensitive skin include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning
- Dryness
- Tingling
- Breakouts
- Rashes
The Importance of Patch Testing
Whenever you’re trying a new cosmetic product, it’s crucial to do a small patch test before applying it all over. This helps you to quickly identify whether there’s an irritant or allergen present that’s going to cause a reaction.
Better to find out in a small patch than after you’ve smeared it all over your face!
Choosing the Right Products for Sensitive Skin
When you’re choosing a skincare routine for sensitive skin, there are definitely a few details to keep in mind.
Ingredients to Avoid in Skincare Products
First of all, you’ll want to avoid any ingredients that you know you have reactions to.
You should also steer clear of high concentrations of alcohol in your skincare because they can seriously dry out the skin and give it that tight, parched feeling.
Always check the ingredients list, and give it a quick Google if you’re in doubt. Sometimes the same ingredient will have a few different scientific names, so it’s worth being thorough.
Fragrances and Essential Oils
While they might smell amazing, fragrances and essential oils are a common culprit for skin reactions. They can be very irritating, so they’re best avoided – especially when they’re at the top of the ingredients list!
Sulfates and Detergents
Sulfates and detergents are soap-like ingredients that are designed to clean the skin. But, they can definitely be a bit harsh and trigger reactions in those with sensitive skin.
High-Concentration Actives
Active ingredients can yield great results – but you need to use them in the right concentration. People with sensitive skin tend to not handle active ingredients very well, so they’re best used at a weaker concentration or in a wash-off product like a mask.
Recommended Ingredients and Products
The good news is that there are tonnes of fantastic ingredients and products for sensitive skin!
Gentle Cleansers and Moisturisers
Cream cleansers and cleansing milks are perfect for sensitive skin because they don’t contain irritating sulfates. Moisturisers with ceramides or panthenol are also amazing for soothing.
Effective Serums for Sensitive Skin
Look for serums with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides – they’ll provide a burst of moisture and hydration!
Step-by-Step Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin
So, what does a skincare routine for sensitive skin look like? Let’s break it down.
Morning Routine
It’s important to properly protect your skin before you step outside and take on the day. Here’s what your skincare routine should look like in the morning.
Cleansing
Give your skin a nice cleanse using a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water – not too hot, not too cold. And don’t rub your face with a towel either, just pat gently.
Treating with Serums
Now is the time for your hydrating serums. If you apply them to damp skin, they’ll help your skin retain more moisture which is a bonus!
Sun Protection
Even if it’s not sunny outside, UV rays can damage your skin and cause irritation. Use a strong SPF and reapply regularly.
Evening Routine
At the end of a long day, your sensitive skin has been exposed to a lot of pollution, UV rays, and environmental factors – so it’s really important to care for it properly.
Removing Makeup and Cleansing
No going to sleep wearing makeup – ever! Remove your makeup with an oil cleanser or micellar water, then go in with your basic gel or cream cleanser.
Moisturising and Nourishing
After a long day, be sure to care for your skin with a nice, nourishing moisturiser.
Weekly Care
Alongside your daily skincare routine for sensitive skin, you should also be adding a few weekly facial treatments to your regimen.
Exfoliation Recommendations
Exfoliation helps get rid of dead skin cells and helps your skincare products penetrate better. Chemical exfoliants are better for sensitive skin because they have a more even effect – but be sure to use them in a low concentration and no more than three times a week.
Deep Hydration and Masks
Masks and hydrating treatments can replenish your skin with much-needed moisture. Go for sheet masks, creams, or gel textures for maximum hydration!
Tips for Managing Sensitive Skin
Want to go the extra mile in caring for your sensitive skin? Here are some bonus tips for the truly committed.
Seasonal Skincare Adjustments
In the Winter, the air tends to be dryer which can irritate sensitive skin. Outside it’s cold and windy, and inside the heaters are blasting which is a double-whammy for irritation.
So, go for thicker moisturisers in the Winter to make up for the lack of moisture in the air.
Lifestyle Factors Influencing Skin Health
Smoking, excess alcohol usage, and vitamin deficiencies can all contribute to sensitive or unhappy skin. Make healthy choices and your skin will thank you!
Skincare with Wecasa
If you want to really give your skin a treat, be sure to book a facial with Wecasa.
From facial massages to specialised makeup techniques, Wecasa can connect you with expert beauty therapists who will have your sensitive skin happy in no time – and in the comfort of your own home!
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