Do you have sensitive skin?
Some people may not know they have sensitive skin until they have a reaction to a product - anything from soaps, moisturiser, or makeup.
Sensitive skin conditions can appear anywhere from on your face to your body.
Common Sensitive Skin Issues
Dry Skin
Skin becomes dry when it loses too much water and oil. Dry skin symptoms cause your skin to:
- itch
- scale or flake
- peel
- feel rough, cracked and/or bleed.
You can treat dry skin by restoring moisture to the affected areas. Fragrance-free is of course the best option.
When cleansing use a gentle, soap-free cleanser that won’t wash away healthy oils. Our [BALANCE] Ultra Gentle Soothing Cleanser is designed for even the most delicate skin. The gel formula rinses clean without upsetting your skin's pH
Eczema
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) affects your skin’s ability to protect you from irritants, like everyday germs or chemicals in your laundry detergent. This can make you extra sensitive to products like soaps and cosmetics.
The symptoms of eczema vary widely from person to person. You could notice any of the following:
- dryness
- itchiness
- small bumps that may leak fluid and crust over
- red to brownish-grey patches of skin
- raw, swollen skin
- thick, cracked, or scaly skin
If you have eczema, it is important to choose sensitive products that will not irritate your skin. A moisturiser with ceramides like our [HYDRATE] help form a protective layer over your skin.
What are you using to wash your laundry? Try switching to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic laundry detergent or go green by using what Kiri does called Eco Egg.
Contact dermatitis
Irritant contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash that develops when the protective layer of your skin is damaged by something it touches. In most cases, a rash will only develop on the area that directly touches the irritant. Symptoms include:
- red rash
- itchiness
- dry, cracked, scaly skin
- bumps and blisters, which may ooze fluid and crust over
- swelling
- burning
Contact dermatitis usually clears up on its own within a few weeks. The most important thing you can do is figure out what triggered the reaction so that you can avoid it in the future. You will want to control the itching while your skin heals. Scratching the area will only make it more inflamed.
Ice the areas that are causing you discomfort. A cool oatmeal bath can soothe blistered, burning skin.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a common skin disease that affects the face. Early signs include blushing or flushing easily. Rosacea causes extreme sensitivity. Some products may cause immediate burning and stinging. Other symptoms include:
- redness of the face, ears, chest, or back
- a sunburned look
- small bumps and pimples
- visible blood vessels
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate is the hero ingredient in our Soothing Duo. This active probiotic complex helps support the skin's barrier whilst also blocking bad bacteria which is responsible for inflammation.
Helpful Ingredients for People with Sensitive Skin
Here are some ingredients we love at the AMPERNA® office that help people with sensitive skin.
Ceramides
Ceramides are natural lipids found within the skin and are an essential part of maintaining the skin's balance. Without the correct balance of ceramides, the skin's barrier can become compromised leading to damage and dryness.
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate is one of the newest topical probiotic ingredients which helps restore and build the barrier function of the epidermis layer.
LFL helps stimulate the production of antimicrobial peptides which keeps your skin cell's health with a fully functioning skin flora. It also provides an increase to the skin retaining the right level of water in the protective barrier.
Urea
Urea is a naturally occurring substance found on the surface of our skin. Its function is to keep our skin looking supple and plump. Urea is a humectant which is hydrating for the skin. It works in synergy with other ingredients like lactic acid which is a gentle exfoliator thus enhancing the penetration of other ingredients.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that works with the natural substances in your skin to help improve uneven skin tone, soften fine lines, minimize enlarged pores, brightens and strengthens the surface of the skin.
Colloidal Oatmeal
Colloidal Oatmeal is a grounded-up oatmeal that is then made into a liquid. This is a highly moisturising and soothing ingredient which helps reduce irritation caused by eczema and dermatitis. Colloidal Oatmeal has also shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lactic Acid
Lactic Acid helps remove old dull skin cells, speeds up cell turnover and stimulates cell renewal.
Lactic Acid is a larger molecule than other AHAS (like Glycolic) which means it doesn’t penetrate as deep into the layers of your skin. Which is perfect for dry or sensitive skin as it’s a gentler way to exfoliate without being too harsh.
Pentavitin
Pentavitin provides powerful 72 hours of hydration to your skin. Yes, you read that correctly!
Pentavitin is a revolutionary ingredient if you suffer from dry, parched, and itchy skin. This potent ingredient acts as a magnet and penetrates deep into the skin. With its intensive hydration properties, it quenches the skin surface and delivers 72 hours of non-stop hydration.
Pentavitin is an ultra-soothing ingredient suitable for all skin types but is particularly suitable for very sensitive skin. It calms irritation, inflammation, and rebuilds sensitive or damaged skin for total comfort. This gentle ingredient soothes and strengthens your very delicate skin.
Skincare Tips to Help Treat Sensitive Skin:
- A gentle cleansing & frequent moisturising routine
- Protecting your skin from the sun
- Watch what you are wearing. Loose, soft and natural fabrics are best. You can read more about what to wear here:
Dressing for Sensitive Skin – AMPERNA® - Avoid having hot showers/baths, warm-cool water is best when you have sensitive skin.
- Avoid products containing drying alcohols (like menthol) essential oils/fragrance, ammonia and benzoyl peroxide.
Resources:
7 Tips for Making Your Sensitive Skin Stronger (healthgrades.com)
Sensitive Skin: 10 Causes, Treatments, and More (healthline.com)
