Sensitive skin
While some skin concerns are medical diagnoses in themselves, sensitive skin is not one of these.
Rather than a condition, "sensitive skin" describes skin that is easily inflamed and doesn't tolerate the use of toiletries and cosmetics as well. It can be an allergic reaction or a symptom of an underlying skin condition.
What are the symptoms?
Some symptoms of sensitive skin are visible and can be easily seen. Other symptoms are invisible and perceived only by the person themselves. Examples are:
Non-visible symptoms: Burning, itching, stinging
Visible: Dryness, peeling, bumps, hives, redness
What causes sensitive skin?
People with the following skin conditions may find they have sensitive skin:
Eczema
Dry skin
Allergic contact dermatitis
Irritant contact dermatitis
Rosacea
Contact urticaria
Photodermatoses
Cutaneous mastocytoses
Carcinoid syndrome
and other conditions
Seasonal and environmental factors, such as too much exposure to sun and wind, or excessive heat or cold are also connected with sensitive skin. Ask your doctor or Pharmacist if your sensitive skin could be linked to a pre-existing condition.
Where does sensitive skin occur?
People with sensitive skin often report it on their face. Due to its thinness, sensitive skin can also occur on the armpits, groin and genitals.
What are some tips to alleviate sensitive skin?
Know your triggers (these may be connected to the seasons, allergies, irritants and emotional changes) and do what you can to avoid them
Instead of soap, use mild, fragrance free cleansers to wash your body and hands
Have short, warm showers (showers that are too hot and long can leech the body’s natural oils, contributing to dryness and irritation)
Choose nourishing moisturising cream and apply when your skin is still slightly damp after a shower or bath, and as needed throughout the day
Consider applying a heavier ointment at night
Use 50+ sun protection all year around
Wear natural fibres such as cotton and linen where possible (avoid wool, which many people find irritates their skin)
Always have your go-to products on hand (leave a set in each bag you use, in your car, at work and anywhere else you spend a lot of time)
At MediADVICE, our pharmacists are here to recommend different treatments products that may help to avoid irritants and better manage your sensitive skin.
We stock a wide range of products for different skin conditions and general skin health. Ask your local MediADVICE Pharmacist today for more information.
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Disclaimer
General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your health care professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your health care professional. Information current as of date of publishing.