Sensitive skin is a type that doesn’t go well with all kinds of products. They need particular products and a skincare routine specifically crafted to keep the skin from breaking out. With so many products in the market to choose from, it can be tempting to try them. But, if you have sensitive skin, then doing this is a big no-no. You need to be careful about what products you use on your skin, as it can quickly turn into a breakout if the product doesn’t suit your skin. But having said that, it doesn’t mean you can’t pamper your skin.
The first step you should do is understand your skin. A dermatologist can help you with this. Once you know what your skin requires daily, you can build a skincare routine tailored to your skin needs.
This blog will help you understand a few basics about sensitive skin and will also let you know a skin care routine that you can follow.
What is Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin is a type that reacts quickly to new products or environmental factors such as smoke and pollutants. However, these irritants can vary from person to person. And, sensitivity is not something you have from birth; it can happen at any age.
Reading this blog, you might wonder if I have sensitive skin. There is yet to be a definitive checklist for this. Only a dermatologist can help you confirm if you have sensitive skin. There may also be some telltale signs that may help you determine this. For example, if your skin becomes red when exposed to sunlight or specific products, then you may have sensitive skin. Other signs could be itching, burning or stinging.
Which Products Are for Sensitive Skin?
If you know that you have sensitive skin, then you should first use fragrance-free products. It would help if you also use gentle skincare formulas tested specifically for sensitive skin. You should also use alcohol-free formulas.
5-step Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin
Step 1: Cleanser
No skincare routine starts without a cleanser. You can buy the best products, but they will not do the intended job if you’re not using them on top of your skin’s dirt, makeup, etc. If you don’t clean your skin, then you will have clogged pores, leading to breakouts later. Look for a gentle formula that won’t remove your skin’s natural oil but also clean it at the same time. Cetaphil face wash, available at a common pharmacy store or online, is excellent for skin cleansing.
Step 2: Toner
Toners help in balancing your skin’s pH levels after cleansing. It soothes your skin and removes titbits that are lingering on your skin. Use a non-alcoholic formula and stay away from astringent ingredients. You can use rose water or rice water.
Step 3: Serum
Serums have been recently an addition to the skincare game. And, thank god for it. They work. They can target your skin’s specific concerns and help you get clearer and glowing skin. There are a lot of serums in the market. And, you can ask your dermatologist about the serums that your skin needs. However, on a daily basis, using hyaluronic acid helps in hydrating your skin. There are vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide and other serums available. Just check with your doctor about using them or you can also do a patch test.
Step 4: Moisturisers
This step is the most important one. Always moisturise your skin after cleansing and toning. If you’re using serum, then a moisturiser should also be applied. Use moisturisers that are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. Use lightweight formulas that are not too greasy or too dry.
Step 5: Sunscreen
If there’s one product that your skin needs every two to three hours, then it is sunscreen. It prevents skin cancer and can also repair skin damage and delay the signs of ageing. Use a sunscreen crafted for sensitive skin that targets wrinkles, fine lines and dark spots.
So, this is the skincare routine that is appropriate for sensitive skin. The best products to follow this routine should be fragrance-free and non-comedogenic mostly. For cleansing, use Cetaphil face wash, which has many good reviews and is suitable for sensitive skin. You should also consult a dermatologist to know your skin type and the products your skin needs most. With all this information, make a consistent routine, and in no time, your skin will shine and have the natural glow you most often wish for.
