How do I know if I have sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is considered more delicate and easily reacts to soaps, perfumes, skincare products and cosmetics. If you’re prone to rashes, redness, bumps, stinging or burning, rosacea or very itchy skin, these could be signs your skin is sensitive.

While most skins can have these reactions a few points in their life to certain ingredients or external factors, sensitive skins have these symptoms frequently and need to avoid anything that causes these reactions. If you develop these symptoms often, it’s likely you have sensitivity and need gentle skin products..

What causes sensitive skin?

While many people have sensitive skin due to genetics and have had it since birth, skin sensitivity can occur or begin at any stage of life. It can begin as a child or teenager with conditions such as eczema, acne and allergic reactions, or can start later in life, often triggered by a compromised immune system, allergies, medications, chemicals, environment changes or even psychological stress.

Using the wrong skin over time care can also cause skin sensitivity, for example, excess exfoliation, strong acidic serums, hot water or soaps that strip the skin’s protective barrier.

Which skincare products should I use on sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin needs gentle skin products without harsh chemicals, parabens or fragrance that could cause further sensitivity and irritation. When trying new products, even if they are mild and natural, it is still best to introduce one product at a time and gradually add new products into your routine to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.