As if skincare isn’t complicated enough, those with sensitive skin have to try that much harder to keep their skin nurtured and nourished. I’m lucky to have normal skin, but my husband suffers from sensitive skin, so I understand and sympathize with those of you who have to deal with the challenge of sensitive skin. But in today’s world, it’s much easier to establish the right sensitive skincare routine and keep your skin balanced and calm. Here are a few tips.
First and foremost, consult with your doctor to determine whether or not you really do have sensitive skin. Don’t just assume you have it. Meet with your regular family doctor and if he/she cannot address your skincare issues, he/she will refer you to a dermatologist. Start with the conventional route. It may be daunting, but you can’t treat your sensitive skin adequately until you know for sure that is what you have.
Once your doctor(s) have determined that you do have sensitive skin, go home and get rid of your beauty products. It’s a heartbreaking process, I know. But these products may be the cause of your irritations. You may even have to get all new cosmetics. People with sensitive skin must avoid products that are high in alcohol and man-made synthesized products. Sensitive skin folks need to stick with products that contain natural products, such as the beauty line L’Occitane, which features a line that is developed specifically for sensitive skin.
Now that you’re shopping for new products, ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to bombard the sales associate with a lot of questions. You need help. That’s what she is there for. And if you find that the sales person doesn’t know much about the products she’s selling and can’t confirm whether or not your sensitive skin can handle the product, then don’t buy it. Only purchase from brands and stores who know their products well and understand your sensitive skin issues. Once you do find a brand that works for you, stick with it for life!
Analyze your environment and consider that fact that other elements may be causing your skin to break out. Think about your laundry detergent or perfumes. Even tree pollen can be irritating to sensitive skin. So be proactive and do some investigation. Find out the causes of your blotches, and remove those elements from your environment.
Treat your sensitive skin like a healthcare condition. In other words, if you suffer from regular migraines, you certainly wouldn’t travel without your prescriptions, would you? So be sure to keep travel sizes of your favorite sensitive skin products on-hand. And should you find that laundry detergents do have an adverse affect on your skin, consider travelling with linens. Take your sensitive skincare seriously and you will eventually find a balance and way to control and eliminate breakouts and irritating skin conditions.