How To Treat Sensitive Skin

Anyone that has sensitive skin knows how frustrating (and expensive) it can be to have. Wasting money on products you have only used a handful of times,  dealing with a red face and not being able to use the "IT" product of the year because it contains ingredients that make you breakout. 


Here are some tips on how to look after sensitive skin...


Know what makes your skin sensitive
Keep note of products that irritate your skin. Is it a particular ingredient or fragrance that's irritating on your skin? Or is it a type of product (eg anti aging, primer, etc) or even a particular brand. 


Stay away from certain ingredients
The majority of anti aging and acne products will cause irritation if you have sensitive skin. Look out for products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs like glycolic acid), vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide and retinol in them. 


Use gentle products
Make sure your products are mild on the skin and preferably fragrance free. Depending on what product you are using, baby products are great for your hair and skin since they are made for soft delicate skin. Also look for soap free products to help against drying out the skin. 


Wash your skin softly
Always make sure you use lukewarm water, never hot. Some skin can find that a washcloth is to abrasive against the skin, so be gentle. After washing your face, gently blot the skin dry instead of wiping your face.


To tone or not to tone
While toning is great to get rid of any make up or cleanser left on the face, it can also be very irritating. If you are interested in toning, look for alcohol free toners. Rosewater mists are great since they are basic and contain no alcohol. Less ingredients in toners are best for sensitive skin.


Protect your skin
Either use a moisturiser with a sunscreen built in, or use a separate one. Make sure it contains Bisabolol (which is derived from chamomile) or Licochalcone (which is derived from licorice) since they help soothe and calm the skin. 


Slowly introduce powerful products
If you are using an anti aging product, only use it once or twice a week at first. Then on alternate days so you can see if your skin reacts to regular use. Try and only use one new product at a time. If you start using 3 new ones and react, you won't know which one is the culprit.


What are your favourite products for sensitive skin?


I really love Nude By Nature "Super Anti-Oxidant Foaming Cleanser"
Akin "Hydrating Mist Toner"
Natio "Ageless Certified Organic Rosehip Oil"


Clinique have a range for redness called "Redness Solutions" that looks great. I haven't used it but it is on my list of products to try. 
XO