3 things we do know about sensitive skin…
- It doesn’t just pop up out of the blue. True sensitive skin is usually something you have had forever.
- Flare-ups are frequent. Sensitive skin is frequently irritated by many common skincare products, the keywords being frequently and common. It’s not unusual to feel a burning sensation after using a strong AHA on your skin, but if the stinging follows a gentle product, you might have a sensitivity problem.
- It’s genetic. If your mother’s skin is easily fired up, it’s likely she passed the torch to you. Not surprisingly, the same people who burn easily in the sun are also prone to sensitivity.
Associate Professor Dr Greg Goodman at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria gives his top tips for caring for sensitive skin. Your ultimate skin routine sorted.
Cleanse – Choose a mild, milky type of cleanser that contains gentle calming and soothing cleansing ingredients and is preferably soap-free. “The cleanser should be non-comedogenic for acne-prone skin,” says Goodman. Try Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser, $12.99
Exfoliate – Exfoliate twice a week only. Opt for products that gently polish the skin. Go for ingredients like hydroxyl acids such as salicylic acid and lactic acid or fruit enzymes that dissolve the dead skin cells without the use of friction. Try Glo.Therapeutics Pumpkin Enzyme Scrub, $51
Mask – Go for an ultra-calming hydrating mask for 10 minutes twice a week. Try Neutrogena Hydro Boost Mask, $19.95 for 5 sheets
Spritz – Light facial mists are designed to reduce redness and flushing. Keep one on hand for any time during the day. We Love Kora Organics Balancing Rose Mist, $39.95
Protect – Consider using calming skin boosters or serums after cleansing and before moisturising. Try Dermalogica Gentle Soothing Booster, $73
Moisturise – find a moisturiser that protects the skin from moisture loss and against harmful environmental aggressors that can irritate the skin. Avoid fragrance, colours and go for non-comedogenic products, so they won’t clog your pores. “Moisturisers remain pretty constant for a skin type over many years in an individual, unless disease, sunshine or ageing directs a change of product.” Try Simple As That Natural Moisturiser, $26.95
Don’t forget sunscreen every day – UVA and UVB rays will just add to your problems and inflame the skin. Go for a good lightweight sunscreen like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen, $16.99 as it’s non-comedogenic and oil-free.
This is a sponsored post by Neutrogena. All opinions expressed by the author are authentic and written in their own words.
