Caring for your Sensitive Skin

A lot of people with sensitive skin have difficulty finding the right products. If you have sensitive skin you most likely have an on-going battle with dryness, burning, redness and frequent breakouts or flare-ups. Sensitive skin easily reacts to external stresses and is fairly delicate due to the lack of outer barrier lipids which provide protection and act as natural moisturizers. 

Here are a few ways to keep your skin calm and free of red blotchiness.

1. Avoid using skincare products containing alpha hydroxy acids. This ingredient can aggravate the skin and make you sun sensitive.
2.  Never use soap to cleanse your face – it causes irritation, itching and dehydration. This is a general rule for ALL skin types. Soap is never a good option. Some of the best cleansers for sensitive skin are Phytomers Accept Neutralizing Cleanser. This cleanser is milky so it doesn’t dry you out and its fragrance free!
3. Another great one is Dermalogica’s Ultracalming Cleanser. Packed with soothing ingredients this cleanser is gentle and won’t dry out your skin.
4. Never use skincare products containing alcohol. Anything with alcohol will make feel dry and irritated. Always check your toners ingredients to see what’s in it.
5. A great sensitive skin Toner is Dermalogica’s Ultracalming Mist, it is soothing and hydrating.
6. Make sure you drink plenty of water every day; your skin is the last organ in your body to receive water, so drink up!
7. Make sure your moisturizer or cream is rich in water and oils. If you are outside a lot and experience dryness or irritation from external aggressors be sure to use something that will protect your skin and give it the natural lipid layer its lacking. A great product for this is Dermalogica’s Barrier Repair.
8. Always apply a sunscreen with SPF. This is also a rule for everyone. Jane Iredale Mineral Powders have an SPF, they not only give you protection but you won’t have to re-apply and your skin will be flawless.
9. Exfoliate! Most people with sensitive skin stay away from exfoliants, scared their skin will end up red and inflamed. But even sensitive skins need exfoliation. Look for something gentle like Yonka’s Gommage. It does the job and it’s so gentle you can use it over your eyes! Some other great exfoliants that use enzymes are Phytomer’s Peeling Vegetal and Guinots Biological Peel. Make sure you exfoliate at least twice per week.

Having sensitive skin can sometimes be frustrating but with the right products and care your skin will be happy and you will feel great! Try Le Petit Spa's Dermalogica Custom Facial!