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An increasing number of people, particularly women, regard their skin as sensitive to some extent, but what is meant by ‘sensitive’?

According to Nina Goad of the British Skin Foundation: “The term ‘sensitive skin’ covers a vast range of skin issues, from mild redness to persistent stinging.”

A recent study of 400 women conducted by dermatologists in France found that 70% of women with sensitive skin on their faces also suffered symptoms on their bodies.

The same study found that the most common triggers reported by women with sensitive skin include the weather, stress, soaps, cosmetics, sun exposure and pollution.

For most people, sensitive skin is actually a reaction to something that the skin is in contact with. The reaction can be one of two types – irritant or allergic.

Nina explains: “Irritant reactions (the most likely) occur when a substance damages your skin’s natural protective barrier by stripping away its natural oils, allowing the irritants to penetrate into the skin”

So, what can you do to protect your skin from these irritants?

GIVE YOUR SKIN THE GENTLEST POSSIBLE CARE

One product that could help is Sanex Dermo Hypo Allergenic which is soap free, colourant free and perfume neutral, to reduce the risk of irritation whilst gently cleansing and caring for delicate skin. It stimulates your skin’s own protective barrier alleviating dryness to leave your skin feeling naturally protected, healthy and free from irritation.

Sanex Dermo Hypo Allergenic needn’t be just for sensitive skins. Even if you don’t have sensitive skin it still deserves the gentlest possible care.

Try following the above tips and see if your skin improves. If your reactions persist, your doctor may refer you to a dermatologist, who can perform patch tests that will show you which ingredients are suitable for your skin and which are best avoided.

NINA GOAD’S SIX STEPS TO CARE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN:

1. Avoid products containing alcohol, which can be harsh on sensitive skin. You could also try opting for products that don’t contain fragrances, preservatives or colourants as these are the cause of reactions for some people
2. Traditional soaps can disturb skin’s natural pH balance so look for products that are pH balanced or pH neutral
3. Swap regular washing products for a pH-balanced, soap-free one labelled ‘hypoallergenic’. ‘Hypoallergenic’ can mean it has a reduced potential to cause allergic reactions
4. Hot water may irritate your skin, as could rubbing with a towel, so use only warm water and pat dry
5. Exfoliation should always be gentle so do not vigorously scrub your skin if it is sensitive. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin’s protective barrier function, making it more prone to irritants and exposing new skin to the elements
6. After washing, apply a very plain moisturiser to help to protect the barrier function of your skin