Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Skin type does not matter, whether it’s oily, dry, or combination, everyone can experience sensitive skin. Sensitive skin can be easily irritated by triggers such as harsh chemicals in skincare products, environmental factors, or even stress. 

That is why choosing the right skincare for sensitive skin is essential. By understanding your skin’s unique needs and using the right products you can easily care for sensitive skin and keep it calm. 

What is Sensitive Skin?

The word sensitive skin was first discovered in 1970, it was used to describe skin that is more reactive and is prone to irritation. It is a common concern that affects around 60% of females and 50% of men worldwide. 

Sensitive skin or sensitized skin is not actually a medical diagnosis, it is in fact a skin type. One thing that all the researchers and dermatologists agree on is that this skin type requires extra care and attention to prevent any discomfort and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. 

Some of the most common symptoms of sensitive skin are:

• Itchy skin
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Redness
• Irritated skin 
• Dry patches

However, it is important to understand that sensitive skin is not ‘one size fits all’. Its symptoms and their severity may vary from person to person. Now that you know what sensitive skin looks like you may be wondering ‘Why is my skin so sensitive’. 

The answer to this question is a little complicated, some people are just born with extra sensitive skin, while for others it may be a symptom of common skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and ringworm, or it may be caused by certain triggers like harsh chemicals in products, UV rays, and environmental factors. 

Best Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin

As we discussed before, sensitive skin requires extra TLC. Now the question is how can you provide it? The routine may vary from person to person depending on your preferences. However, the 3 most important steps that should be incorporated in skincare for sensitive skin are:

Cleansing

Cleansing is the first and most important step in any skincare routine. And for sensitive skin, it is even more important. Cleansing the skin will help you get rid of the harmful irritants and bacteria on the skin, unclog the pores, and remove dirt and oil buildup.

All of these factors can often make the itching and irritation even worse. Use a mild face wash for sensitive skin that contains skin-hydrating and soothing chemicals like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to cleanse your face at least once daily. 

If you use it once in the morning and once at night before going to bed that will be the best choice. When we think about cleansing we mostly consider cleansing the face, however, when you are experiencing sensitive skin you may be experiencing it on other parts of the body as well.

This is why incorporating a moisturizing body wash for sensitive skin into your skincare routine is also essential. Take a shower with it once daily to cleanse your skin thoroughly. 

• Wet your skin and apply the cleanser to your skin.
• Use your fingertips or a soft washcloth to gently massage it onto the skin in circular motions.
• Remember never to use any scrubbing tools to massage your skin as they can worsen the condition.
• Thoroughly rinse your skin with lukewarm or cool water.
• Pat dry the skin with a towel. 

No matter which body wash for sensitive skin​ you are using make sure it is free from harsh, skin-irritating chemicals. 

Moisturizing

People who have sensitive skin often have compromised skin barrier. This means it makes it difficult for the skin’s natural protective barrier to act as a shield and protect the skin against outside irritants, or retain moisture in it. 

This often leads to excessively dry skin. This is why hydration becomes crucial for sensitive skin. 

• Use a fragrance free moisturizer for sensitive skin twice daily, once in the morning and once at night to moisturize the skin.
• Always remember to moisturize your skin immediately after taking a bath.
• Apply the moisturizer in a gentle patting motion, instead of rubbing. Rubbing can further irritate the skin.  

While choosing a moisturizer for sensitive skin look for one that not only hydrates the skin, but also helps restore the skin barrier and soothes the itching, redness, and irritations. Skin moisturizers that contain ingredients like petrolatum, glycerin, and licorice root extract. 

If you have dry skin then choose a cream moisturizer, however, if you have oily skin then go for a fast-absorbing, oil-free moisturizer. If you are searching for a good moisturizer for sensitive skin then try Happy Cappy Moisturizing Cream, it is fast-absorbing, non-greasy, and free from any harsh chemicals making it suitable for every skin type. 

Sunscreen

Applying sunscreen to the skin while going out is as essential as moisturizing the skin. Sensitive skin is more prone to sun damage. Choose a sunscreen that is non-greasy, fragrance-free, and does not contain any harsh chemicals. 

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF, it can protect against UVA and UVB rays. Make sure you generously apply it to the skin before going out. Use it even if you won’t be going in direct sunlight.

If you are unsure about which sunscreen will be best for you, consult a dermatologist who will prescribe you the best sunscreen for sensitive skin. 

Additional Steps in Skin Regimen for Sensitive Skin

Apart from the three essential skincare steps mentioned above you can add a few extra products to take care of your skin. 

Toner 

You can add a toner to your skincare routine to remove any remaining dirt or cleanser on your skin after cleansing. Toners also help in balancing the skin’s pH levels. Look for a toner that is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, contains soothing ingredients, and is specially formulated for sensitive skin. 

Exfoliator

Most people think that exfoliators should not be used on sensitive skin. However, the truth is exfoliating the skin can deep cleanse the skin and remove any oil and dirt in the pores that often lead to acne and breakouts. 

You must exfoliate the skin at least once a week to take care of your skin. However, choose a gentle exfoliator for sensitive skin that is free from strong chemicals and scrubbing beads. 

Serum

Serums can be used to provide extra hydration to the skin. You can use it before applying makeup, after exfoliating, or before going to bed. Serums containing ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are a great choice for sensitive skin. 

Mask

Using face masks can help calm the skin and hydrate it. You can use it once a week after cleansing to help soothe the skin. Use face masks that contain skin-hydrating and soothing natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, or hyaluronic acid. 

Daily Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Now we know that using good skincare products for sensitive skin can help you manage the condition. But now the question is how should you use them. 

Following a daily step-by-step skincare routine for sensitive skin can help you cleanse, hydrate, and soothe the skin. Here is how to do it.

Morning Routine

Your morning routine is very essential as it will help the skin face all the hardships through the day. Your morning skincare routine should be in the following steps.

• Cleansing
• Toning
• Serum application
• Moisturizing
• Applying sunscreen

You can skip the toner and serum part, however, if you add them to your routine they will provide extra care to the skin. 

Nighttime Routine

Following a nighttime routine is just as important as the daytime one. If you leave extra dirt, irritants, or makeup on your skin while going to bed they can clog the pores, cause a reaction, and lead to other complications. 

This is why it is essential that you take extra good care of your skin even before going to bed. Here is the sequence you should follow:

• Remove any makeup on the skin.
• Cleanser
• Toner
• Serum
• Moisturizer

You can use the double cleansing method to thoroughly cleanse the skin before going to bed. This means cleansing the skin twice, one after another. The first is to remove the makeup and the second is to cleanse any impurities from the pores. 

What to Look for in Skincare Products for Sensitive Skin?

You may have noticed in the article that we were continuously talking about choosing products that are free from harsh chemicals. But what are these harsh chemicals? 

Now let’s discuss them. The best skincare products for sensitive skin are those that are:

• Fragrance-free
• Paraben-free
• Sulfate-free
• Alcohol-free
• Dye-free
• Lanolin-free
• Phthalates-free 
• Dimethicone-free
• MCI/MI-free
• Propylene glycol free

While these are the things that you must avoid in your products for sensitive skin, some skin-soothing ingredients that you should look for are:

• Ceramides
• Hyaluronic acid
• Chamomile
• Oatmeal extract
• Aloe vera
• Petrolatum
• Glycerin
• Licorice root extract
• Apple fruit extract

While shopping for sensitive skincare products, always remember ‘less is more’. The shorter the ingredient list of a product is, the better it is for your skin. However, always read the ingredients before buying the product or patch test it before using it to avoid any complications. 

Skincare Tips for Sensitive Skin

The best skincare for sensitive skin goes beyond just following a daily skincare routine. It also means being mindful of a few extra things, such as:

1. Avoid the Triggers

There are certain triggers that can exacerbate the sensitivity and make the itching, redness, and irritation worse. These triggers may vary from person to person, from harsh chemicals in skincare products, nickel, and cigarette smoke, to extreme weather conditions the triggers can be anything. 

So if you know the triggers that make your condition worse try avoiding them. If you are unable to rule out the triggers, then consult a doctor they can help you figure it out. 

2. Use Gentle Products

Always use hypoallergenic products for sensitive skin, these products are the best option as they are less likely to contain allergens that may irritate the skin. 

Read the ingredients label before buying the product to make sure it’s safe for you. the best products for sensitive skin are those that are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free. You can also search the product on SkinSafe’s website, the ones suitable to be used on sensitive skin are listed there. 

3. Patch-Test the Products

Introducing new skincare products to your sensitive skin can be a risky matter. What if your skin reacts to any ingredient in it and leads to severe itching and irritation? To avoid these types of complications make sure you patch test the product before using it properly. 

Apply a small amount of product on your skin and wait for 24 to 36 hours, if you notice any reaction then avoid using that product. 

4. Bathtime Care

Taking care of the skin during a bath is essential for people with sensitive skin. Some things that you should keep in mind are:

• Use lukewarm or cool water to take baths.
• Avoid taking long hot baths and showers.
• Make your bathtime quick to a maximum of 10 minutes.
• Avoid using rough loofahs or exfoliating tools on your skin.
• Use a fragrance free body wash for sensitive skin to cleanse the skin.
• Moisturize your skin immediately after taking a bath while your skin is still a little damp. 
• Avoid rubbing your skin to dry it, instead pat dry it. 

5. Treat the Skin Condition

Sometimes sensitive skin is a symptom of common skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. If your sensitive skin is also caused by them then treating the condition can help soothe the itching, redness, and irritation.

If you are experiencing eczema then make sure to cleanse your skin once daily with an eczema shampoo and moisturize your skin as much as possible with an eczema cream to manage the condition.

Happy Cappy Sensitive Skin Care Products

Sensitive skin knows no age and color, anyone can have it even the kids. And when it comes to choosing skincare products for children it becomes even more difficult as they have delicate skin, especially babies. 

This is why Dr.Eddie has formulated dermatologist-recommended skin care products for sensitive skin that can be used by people of all ages and are clinically tested. 

Happy Cappy Daily Shampoo and Body wash can also be used as a face wash. It is free from any skin-irritating chemicals and contains natural skin-soothing ingredients like licorice root extract, oatmeal extract, apple fruit extract, provitamin B5, aloe vera extract, and glycerin. It can be used daily to cleanse the skin. 

Happy Cappy Moisturizing Cream is a non-greasy, fast-absorbing skin moisturizer for sensitive skin that helps restore the natural skin barrier and helps soothe itching, redness, and irritation associated with sensitive eczema-prone skin. It has also received a 100% safe rating from SkinSAFE to be used on sensitive skin. 

Key Takeaway

• Sensitive skin can be a skin type or a symptom of skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
• Extra care and attention are essential for managing sensitive skin.
• The skincare for sensitive skin must include the use of hypoallergenic products.
• The skincare routine should include the use of a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. A few other things that you should take care of are: patch testing any product before using it, taking care of the skin during bathtime, avoiding the triggers, and treating the skin condition that might be causing your sensitive skin.
• By using the right products and following a proper skincare routine you can easily soothe the itchy and irritated sensitive skin. 

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