Do you have sensitive skin? If so, you know that it can be a real challenge to take care of properly. Many people with sensitive skin find that they need to make a lot of changes in their lives in order to keep their skin healthy and happy. In this blog post, we will discuss 11 tips for taking care of your sensitive skin!
Tip #1: Avoid harsh ingredients in your skin and bath products. Some products can strip the natural oils from your skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Look for gentle, fragrance-free products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. In some cases, you may want to investigate the ingredients to find out if you’re allergic to any of them. This will help you avoid them in the future.
Tip #2: Switch to a dye-free and fragrance-free laundry detergent. Laundry detergents can often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. Avoid further skin irritants that are also found in fabric softeners. Make sure your clothes and bedding are thoroughly washed and rinsed prior to using them.
Tip #3: Change your bedding and clothing to more natural fibers. Cotton is a great choice for people with sensitive skin, as it is soft and gentle on the skin. Avoid materials like polyester and acrylic, which can often cause irritation. Many people with sensitive skin also react to wool, which is also a common allergen. Check your labels and make changes for the sake of your skin.
Tip #4: Take a break from using harsh exfoliators or trade-in your exfoliators for something more in line with your skin needs. Discuss your options during a skincare consultation with one of our dermatology providers or aestheticians. We can examine your skin and offer our recommendations for what to use and what to avoid.
Tip #5: Avoid using hot water when washing your face and showering. Hot water can strip the natural oils from your skin, leading to dryness and irritation. Use lukewarm water instead, which will be gentle on your skin. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer immediately after cleansing to replenish your skin and avoid dryness and cracking.
Tip #6: Be careful when choosing sunscreens. Some sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin, as they contain fragrances. Choose a gentle sunscreen designed for sensitive skin. Oftentimes, adults have success with sunscreens formulated for babies. If you would like recommendations for the best sunscreens for your skin type, discuss your options with our dermatology team.
Tip #7: Drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water will help keep your skin hydrated and healthy. It is, after all, your body’s largest organ.
Tip #8: Avoid using too many new products at once as it can be difficult to determine which one is causing the irritation. Try adding new products over time and see if that helps reduce the amount of irritation you are experiencing. Your dermatologist or aesthetician can give recommendations on the best ways to space out new products in your home skincare routine.
Tip #9: Take a break from using makeup. Give your skin some time to heal and rest. Reintroduce your products one at a time and watch your reaction. Anything that may cause irritation, throw it out. Note the ingredients, though, so you can determine which ingredients are causing the most irritation to your sensitive skin.
Tip #10: Be patient. It can often take time for sensitive skin to adjust to new products and routines. Don’t give up if you don’t see results right away. Talk to a dermatologist for help with your new routine. A board-certified dermatologist or a licensed aesthetician can give you a timeline of when you can expect to experience positive results.
Tip #11: Seek guidance and care from a dermatologist if you are struggling to take care of your sensitive skin. A board-certified dermatologist can help you develop a skincare routine that is specifically designed for your sensitive skin. They can also recommend professional skin services to speed up healing and restore balance to your skin. They can also run tests to determine what is causing sensitivity or if you have a skin condition that is treatable with prescriptions and procedures.
We hope you found these tips helpful! Taking care of sensitive skin can be a challenge, but it is definitely worth it in the end. Follow these tips and you will be on your way to healthy, happy skin!
The Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana (LASSI) is a full-service dermatology and aesthetics practice offering medical and cosmetic dermatology services as well as medical spa offerings like facials, peels, and more. Our expertise in skin health extends from difficult to sensitive skin conditions and everything in between, with all providers working under the direction of Dr. C. William Hanke, board-certified dermatologist and medical director of the LASSI.
The LASSI is home to an accredited clinical research trials facility, which is testing new treatments and medicines for all sorts of medical and cosmetic skin disorders. Many of the treatments that dermatologists and other skincare experts rely on were first studied right here in our facility, making us one of Indiana’s most experienced and sought-after dermatology practices.
Stop struggling with sensitive skin. Schedule a consultation with our team of skincare experts at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana (LASSI) and find relief from sensitive skin today. During each stage of life, we are excited to help you look and feel your best using only FDA-cleared, proven methods, technologies, and therapies.