Having sensitive skin requires extra care to maintain your best skin. Here are a few tips to help you to prevent (or at least minimize) the itching, redness, swelling, stinging, burning, and other symptoms that affect your skin:
Learn your triggers
Work with us to identify what upsets your skin. The most common triggers include:
- Preservatives and fragrances in soaps, cosmetics, and detergents.
- Plants, such as poison ivy, oak, and sumac.
- Jewelry made from certain metals, such as nickel.
- Rubber, latex, and adhesives.
- Exposure to heat and hot water.
Once we identify your triggers, we can work to reduce and manage them.
Only use products designed for sensitive skin
Always look for products that are labeled for sensitive skin. This may include being hypoallergenic, gentle, or mild. Read labels.
- No sodium lauryl sulfates, petrochemicals, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes.
- Watch out for essential oils and botanical extracts since you can be sensitive to these.
- Choose products that calm your skin. Some of these include aloe vera, shea butter, and Vitamin E.
Less is more
Keep your regimen simple and limit the number of products you use. If you’re adding or changing a product, start slowly and do a “patch” test before using it all over your face or body. Put the new product on a very small area. The inside of your arm is a good testing spot. The skin is soft, and you’ll be able to see if you have any reaction — swelling, redness, etc. If it looks and feels okay, you’re good to go! Keep in mind that even if products individually are safe for your sensitive skin, when combined, you may find your skin becomes reactive. Stop the new product and give your skin time to heal.
Warm is better
Hot showers or baths may sound relaxing, but they aren’t a good idea for sensitive skin. A better plan is to use warm water, and limit your bathing time to 10 minutes. And remember to use mild soaps. No scrubbing, loofas or washcloths. Towel off gently without rubbing, and apply moisturizer to damp skin for the best absorption.
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Feel free to contact us about this or any medical and cosmetic dermatological service.