Sensitive Skin: Your Guide to Soothing and Smiling

Sensitive skin can be as temperamental as a cat on a hot tin roof. One wrong move, and it's red, irritated, and throwing a tantrum. But don't fret! With the right care and a sprinkle of humor, you can keep your skin calm and collected.

Understanding Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin isn't just a buzzword; it's a real condition that affects millions worldwide. It's characterized by heightened reactivity to various environmental factors, skincare products, food and drink, and even certain fabrics. This means your skin might throw a fit over things that others' skin wouldn't bat an eyelash at.

Common Causes of Sensitive Skin

Several factors can contribute to the development of sensitive skin:

• Genetic Predisposition: Sometimes, it's just in the genes.
• Environmental Factors: Weather changes, pollution, and sun exposure can all play a part.
• Lifestyle Choices: Diet, stress, and sleep habits can influence skin sensitivity.
• Harsh Skincare Products: Overusing products or using ones not suited for your skin type can lead to irritation.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like hormonal imbalances and autoimmune disorders can also contribute to skin sensitivity.

Caring for Sensitive Skin: Tips and Tricks

1. Gentle Cleansing: Start your skincare routine with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid using hot water, as it can strip the skin of its natural oils and exacerbate sensitivity. Instead, opt for lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
2. Use a Gentle Serum: Serums are the holy grail of skincare, able to penetrate the skin and deposit active ingredients where they need to go. For sensitive skin, choose serums with soothing, calming, and anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Moisturize Regularly: Moisturizing is crucial for sensitive skin, as it helps to restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier function. Look for moisturizers that are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and formulated for sensitive skin. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin are beneficial for providing hydration and soothing the skin.
4. Sun Protection: Sensitive skin is more susceptible to sunburn and damage from UV rays. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ or higher before heading outdoors.
5. Patch Test New Products: When introducing new skincare or cosmetic products into your routine, it is crucial to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a small area of your skin and wait for 24-48 hours to observe any adverse reactions. If your skin shows signs of redness, itching, or irritation, it's best to avoid using that product.
6. Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Avoid retinol and high concentrations of Vitamin C, which can be irritating to sensitive skin. However, over time and with the right products and treatments, it is possible to build skin tolerance.
7. Identify Your Triggers: It's easy to say "Stay away from XYZ," but in reality, most people are only sensitive to certain products. Depending on who you speak to, "all fragrances are bad," or "natural fragrances are good," etc., the reality is we are all individuals, and we each react differently to various ingredients or products. If you react, check the ingredients in the product that you used and, by a process of elimination, identify your triggers and discuss these with your therapist before any treatment.
8. Be Mindful of Your Diet: Certain foods and beverages can trigger skin sensitivity and inflammation. Pay attention to your diet and avoid known triggers like spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods. Instead, focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin.
9. Hair Products Matter: Hair products are often responsible for sensitive skin and even acne. Gels, waxes, and hairsprays end up on your pillowcase and transfer to your skin, so be mindful about those products too.
10. Watch Out for Metals: Surprisingly, metals in jewelry can irritate sensitive skin. For instance, nickel can cause reactions, and even gold earrings can have that effect.

In-Office Treatments for Skin Flare Ups and Discoloration

Many treatments at the clinic are suitable for sensitive conditions and some will also help to build skin strength. Conditions such as Rosacea and Acne Rosacea will never be completely cured, but they can be brought under control and maintained relatively easily.

• Issada Sensitive Skin Pack: Calming and soothing for barrier-impaired skin.
• IPL/Laser for General Redness: Reduces redness and strengthens skin.
• B Boost Micro Peel: Calming and soothing.
• Luminess Facial/Micro Peel: Strengthening.
• NeoGen Evo Low Energy: General redness and strengthening.
• LED Light Therapy: Soothing and healing.

If you have sensitive skin please consult with a professional before attempting any laser treatments. 

Caring for skin requires a gentle and mindful approach. By understanding the causes and triggers of sensitivity, you can make informed choices when it comes to skincare products and lifestyle habits. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so it's essential to listen to your skin and tailor your routine accordingly. With the right care and attention, you can keep your sensitive skin healthy, calm, and radiant.