In a recent study done by Aveeno, it was revealed that 71% of adults believe that they have sensitive skin. That is an increase of 55% in the last two decades. Although sensitive skin is not officially classified as a disease or a serious medical condition, people with this skin type know very well that this condition can significantly affect their quality of life. 

Although the symptoms that accompany sensitive skin will vary from person to person, there are still some similarities. If you aren’t sure if your skin can be considered sensitive, or if you want to find out how to care for your sensitive skin type, keep on reading.

How to recognize sensitive skin and what is the cause?

The best way to find out your skin type will be to go to a dermatologist. However, we are aware of the fact that now everyone will have this privilege. But there are a few signs that you can look out for yourself.

The basic guidelines that point to sensitive skin are intolerance and reactivity to certain products and ingredients. These ingredients include perfumes, soaps, detergents, fragrances, certain skin care products, or even home cleaning products.

There are other triggers as well, such as pollution, high or low temperatures, as well as hormones, fatigue, and shaving. Some of the causes of skin sensitivity can also be dermatological problems. Some examples include eczema, rosacea or allergic and contact dermatitis, extremely dry skin, damaged skin, and excessive exposure to environmental factors such as sun or wind. There are also genetic factors, gender and age, which can have a role in the degree of skin sensitivity.

Indicators in the form of temporary redness, itching, burning, and tightness are what will tell you that you have sensitive skin. Essentially, the sensitivity is caused by the nerve endings in the upper layer of the skin. Irritation of these nerve endings occurs when the skin’s natural barrier is damaged or weakened due to the above-mentioned triggers. And while any skin can react to some ingredients, people with sensitive skin are more likely to notice symptoms of sensitivity.

Natural or induced source of sensitivity

Scientists from the BIODERMA Laboratory recently discovered that skin sensitivity can have two sources, natural or induced. Natural sensitivity is the sensitivity of the skin from the inside, which is caused by the dysfunction of nerve fibers that overreact when exposed to irritants. This is permanently present. Induced sensitivity occurs in some people due to their lifestyle and environmental aggressors such as stress, pollution, and weather, and it is temporary. The symptoms are the same for both types. This type of skin requires specific care that will restore the skin’s balance over time.

How to take care of sensitive skin?

If you have a sensitive skin type, you probably know how important it is to read the ingredients of the products that you are incorporating into your skincare routine. The most triggering ingredients include fragrance, alcohol, and soaps.

Your number one priority when it comes to skincare should be to improve your skin barrier. To do that, you should choose products with ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and tiger grass. These ingredients also help reduce redness, dryness, and irritation.

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