Finding the right skincare routine can be a struggle, especially if you have a skin type that is reactive to most of the products available on the market. Unfortunately, about 46% of individuals have moderate to severe cases of skin sensitivity. Due to their skin type, about 78% of these individuals have to avoid specific skincare products in fear of experiencing adverse reactions. These side effects can range from developing dry, flaky patches of skin to experiencing swelling and pain.
To avoid these unpleasant reactions, individuals with sensitive skin types need to look for gentle products that can protect their skin’s natural barriers. So, if you want to build a skincare routine for sensitive skin, here’s how you can get started:
Invest in staple products for sensitive skin
Skincare routines are essential in ensuring that your skin is free and safe from any harmful substances. This is why a skincare routine for sensitive skin is made up of staple products that can strengthen and soothe one’s skin against potential irritants. The first step of your routine should be to use a calming gel cleanser. This step helps remove any dirt and impurities that can harm your skin. Then, follow it up with a moisturizing cream that contains soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal. It will relieve any itchiness or dryness while replenishing the hydration levels of your skin. These staple skincare products ensure that your skin meets its basic needs for optimal results.
Protect your skin with a non-irritating sunscreen
Many people make the mistake of thinking that sunscreens are optional skincare products. However, skipping sunscreen application is a detrimental practice that can lead to increased skin sensitivity. Without proper sun protection, the sun’s UV rays can penetrate your inner skin layers and damage the cells within. So, avoid damaging your skin by regularly applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. It is also recommended that you use mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide since these are generally recognized as safe and effective compared to other sunscreen substances. By regularly using a safe and effective sunscreen, you can protect yourself from sun damage.
Target specific skin concerns with a treatment product
People have varying degrees of skin sensitivity. Thus, it’s important to use a treatment product that can address your specific skin concerns. For instance, petroleum jelly is a product that can soothe psoriasis by sealing in moisture within your skin. As such, applying petroleum jelly over affected areas can reduce the occurrence of flare-ups. This product is also useful for individuals experiencing rosacea. While there are many symptoms of rosacea, using an occlusive like petroleum jelly can protect the areas of the skin prone to inflammation. Proper application of treatment products can help in relieving the symptoms and alleviating your skin’s sensitivity.
Have lavender facial steam once a week
Finally, you can pamper yourself and keep your skin’s sensitivity under control through weekly facial steam. Facial steaming can help open up your pores and release the dead skin cells and bacteria that are clogging them. On top of that, this also boosts your skin’s hydration levels. However, our article on plants for healthy and gorgeous skin points out that you can make this even better by adding lavender flowers into the steam bath. Lavender contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can calm down any irritations or swell in your skin. This can make your skin more calm, clean, and supple afterwards.
A complete skincare routine for sensitive skin needs to contain gentle products that relieve irritation and protect your skin’s barriers. Incorporate a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, treatment product, and facial steam into your routine for optimal skin health.