Dealing With Sensitive Skin

Do you have sensitive skin? You probably have sensitive skin if you tend to blush, flush, or have the blotchiness, dry or itchy skin, or if your skin seems to become irritated by skin care products, detergents, or is overly sensitive to shaving, cleansing or waxing. Many individuals are also overly sensitive to their environment including the sun, wind, or temperature.

If you suffer from sensitive skin the most important thing you can do is moisturize. There is a close correlation between dry skin and sensitive skin therefore treating your dry skin will in a number of cases help to subdue sensitivity. The theory is that dry skin leads to cracks weakening the skins integrity which allows the various irritants to penetrate deep into the layers of skin. The use of a moisturizer should be part of your daily skin care regime, in addition choose cleaners and skin care products that also contain moisturizers. It is also recommended that you choose products that contain only natural ingredients as many of the man made chemicals tend to cause irritation, as well avoid skin care products which contain alcohol which tends to promote dryness.

Skin is every individual therefore there are a number of things which you may want to consider if you suffer from sensitive skin. For instance avoid prolonged hot showers or baths, limit the amount of time and only use lukewarm water. It is also recommended that you apply your moisturizer to your clean damp skin to lock in the moisture. It should also be noted that there are numerous products on the market specifically designed for sensitive skin.

Be gentle with your skin, avoid hard or over scrubbing your skin and do not scratch. When you are shaving always shave in the direction of hair growth not against it. Always use sun protection and when necessary protect yourself from the wind. If you are taking part in activities that cause you to sweat, wear clothes that allow your skin to breath such as light cottons which are very effective in pulling the sweat off of your skin. If necessary carry a towel so that you can pat yourself down. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.

It may also be necessary to avoid direct contact with chemicals and detergents. Switching to natural products may be an option or trial and error. If you do not want to use natural products then wear gloves while washing dishes or using house hold cleaners. You may want to add some corn starch to your rubber gloves to help with sweating.

Last but not least is health, your over all health has a direct effect on the health of your skin, remember your skin is your bodies largest organ. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to the health and condition of your skin. It is also important to quit smoking, there is a direct link between smoking and the health of your skin. Also avoid stress, again this affects your over all health as well as the health of your skin.