For sensitive skin, it is very important to avoid aggressive products. In addition, it is recommended to keep it hydrated and choose hypoallergenic soaps to ensure that you do not suffer adverse reactions.
People with sensitive skin overreact to both external and internal factors. The former includes exposure to the sun and cold, while the latter refers to the different hormonal changes the body can undergo.
Although it does not represent serious health problems, it is a condition that can be very annoying. Therefore, in this article we will give you some home remedies and tips to properly take care of your skin. Take note!
What is Sensitive Skin and what Causes it?
Sensitive skin is the type of skin that reddens or irritates easily. Dermatologists say that this is a skin that is so dry that it can cause various reactions to different stimuli. According to a publication by Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia , the factors that cause more sensitive skin include the following:
- Cold wind
- Humidity
- Heat
- Sun exposure
- Low temperatures
- Pollution
- Cosmetics
- Other skin conditions, such as acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, and physical urticaria
- Diet and body hygiene practices
Although sensitivity most commonly develops on the face, neck, and décolleté, it is also likely to appear in other areas, such as the scalp and extremities.
Home Remedies for Sensitive Skin
Having sensitive skin can be very annoying for people who suffer from this condition. Luckily, some home remedies can help deal with this problem. Pay close attention to the tips we give you below, and feel encouraged to change your habits.
Do not use Soap
Most of the ones sold in stores contain fragrances that can trigger allergies for those who suffer from sensitive skin. In turn, soap is alkaline and can strip the skin of its acidic layer, causing further dryness and sensitivity.
To cleanse your face, choose lotions that state they are hypoallergenic and formaldehyde-free. Nowadays, there are many options for all skin types. A good choice is shea butter soap.
Analyze cosmetics
If you’ve had them for a long time, try to buy new ones. For example, mascara should be replaced every 3 months and lipstick every 6. Also, if you use eyeliner pencil, sharpen it every time you use it.
For your eyelids, remember that brightly colored shadows are more irritating, so natural shades are more suitable. On the other hand, avoid using waterproof makeup on a daily basis, as its components can be aggressive on the skin.
Avoid irritating substances
Isopropyl alcohol, sodium sulfate, dyes, colorants, and ascorbic acid are among the ingredients to avoid. They all have compounds that can increase dryness and symptoms on your skin. So before using any product, make sure it doesn’t have these substances.
Test before use
Any product you want to buy or use should be tested on its own. Put a small amount on the underside of your wrist and wait 1-2 days. If, after that time, you see redness, inflammation, or irritation, it is not suitable for you. Some dermatologists recommend doing this test behind the ear.
Keep your skin moisturized
Moisturizing your skin is very important to avoid infections, allergies or sun damage. Products that serve this purpose form a kind of protective shield over the dermis. You can use coconut oil or look for a commercial one that is suitable for your skin type. Of course, we recommend drinking at least 1 liter of water every day.
Take care of your diet
It’s not just the outside of your skin that needs to be taken care of. What you eat also affects your health and appearance. For example, according to an article in Nutrients Magazine , vitamin C helps neutralize and eliminate oxidants, such as those found in environmental pollution and those resulting from exposure to ultraviolet rays.
To get it, include more foods such as oranges, strawberries, broccoli, and spinach in your daily diet. You can also take supplements. However, we recommend that you consult your doctor first before taking them.
Protect yourself from the sun
It’s no secret that UV damage is dangerous for everyone, especially those with sensitive skin. So don’t forget to apply a cream with a high sun protection factor (SPF) when you go outside, even if it’s winter or cloudy, and avoid sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Relax and sleep well
Stress can be one of the reasons why your skin is sensitive or irritated by anything. If you are tense, your brain releases a hormone that increases oil production and makes acne worse. Also, if you have a hard time relaxing, your blood vessels can dilate and make rosacea worse.
Another consequence of this is dehydration of the dermis. We recommend you try to deal with stress and, if possible, sleep 8 hours straight every night. Doing meditation or relaxation exercises or taking a bath after a hard day at work are some practices that can help you.
Masks for sensitive skin
As a complement to the good habits we recommend for healthy skin, including some of the following homemade masks in your beauty routine would also be a good idea. Take note!
Carrot and honey mask
Honey is one of the most suitable ingredients for treating skin conditions, especially if you suffer from acne, eczema, or psoriasis. In fact, research published in the Journal of Cosmetics Dermatology indicates that this product contributes to keeping the skin young, delaying the formation of wrinkles, regulating pH, and preventing pathogenic infections.
On the other hand, beta-carotene, one of the main components of carrots, is said to help repair skin tissues and provide protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. Sounds interesting, right?
Ingredients
- 3 cooked carrots
- 2 tablespoons of honey (50 g)
Elaboration
- Cook the carrots and, when they are soft, remove them, cut them into slices, and add the honey.
- Mix everything in a bowl until you get a paste.
- When warm or cold, apply to clean skin and leave for 15 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Yogurt and oatmeal mask
Another mask that we recommend to pamper your skin is the one made with oats and yogurt. The properties of these two ingredients will make your skin feel soft and smooth. You just have to follow the steps we mention below.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons of natural yogurt (150 g)
- 3 tablespoons of oats (30 g)
Elaboration
- Mix the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous cream.
- Apply to a previously washed face and leave on for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Once the mask has dried, rinse with warm water and dry with a hot towel.
As you can see, there are several options when it comes to taking care of your skin and dealing with sensitivity. Try to adopt one or more of these recommendations in your daily beauty routine and see the results for yourself. Your skin will thank you!