What is sensitive skin and how to identify it?
What is sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin is a common condition that manifests itself as redness, itching or irritation following exposure to certain environmental factors (sun, cold, wind...), cosmetics or even household products. The causes can be varied, ranging from poor diet to excessive stress, lack of sleep or allergies. It is therefore important to care for sensitive skin by using products specifically designed for their needs, to relieve discomfort and protect the skin.
How do you know if you have sensitive skin?
There are a few signs that you can tell if you have sensitive skin. The first symptoms are redness, irritation, or discomfort such as often tight or even itchy skin. It is also noticeable that the skin is drier than usual and that it is more sensitive to expensive products (hygiene, make-up, cleaning, laundry, etc.). To ensure the good health of his skin (sensitive or not), let's remember that it is important to have a regular dermatological follow-up.
At what age can you say you have sensitive skin?
There is no age limit for having sensitive skin. An infant's skin is particularly sensitive and vulnerable, as it can become with age, but it can also vary due to other factors such as excessive sun exposure, cosmetic products that are not well suited to their skin, diet, lack of sleep or periods of stress.
Is sensitive skin often atopic skin?
No, sensitive skin does not necessarily mean it is atopic. Atopic skin is a medical condition that can lead to additional sensitivity and increased dryness of the skin and this condition must be accurately diagnosed by a dermatologist.
But then, what is atopic skin?
Atopic skin is a skin condition characterised by exaggerated dryness and sensitivity. It is most commonly associated with intense rashes and itching, and can be caused by a range of environmental and genetic factors. Atopic skin is characterised by chronic inflammation and failure of the skin's immune system. It is most often associated with an overreaction of the immune system against external factors such as allergens or chemicals. The skin overreacts and causes extreme discomfort to the sufferer.
We have atopic skin when we have dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis...
Yes, atopic skin can manifest itself as dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis.
Atopic dermatitis and eczema are both chronic inflammatory diseases that can vary in intensity depending on age. They are characterized by redness, itching, dry and scaly skin for dermatitis and by blisters for eczema.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that manifests as red, scaly patches on the skin, scalp, and nails.
Note that atopic dermatitis is generally triggered by an allergy, while psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. The symptoms of eczema and atopic dermatitis are similar, but the symptoms of psoriasis are different.
So why buy fragrance-free cosmetics when you have sensitive skin?
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic cosmetic products are an excellent option for people with delicate and sensitive skin. Fragrance-free products greatly reduce the risk of irritating the skin and causing allergic reactions. Moreover, they are often more effective because they are free from ingredients that could mask or interfere with the active principles of the formula.
In conclusion, it is important to be vigilant when you have sensitive skin. It is good to avoid products from petrochemicals, too aggressive cosmetic products, and sulfated and fragranced formulas.
On a daily basis, the temperature of shower or bath water can also have an impact on the skin. A bath that is too hot and/or too long will affect the skin's hydration level.
And occasionally, it is best to avoid being exposed to the sun and heat for too long.
Finally, hydrating the skin every day with a suitable lotion and drinking plenty of water are simple, effective, and easy steps to implement.
