Sensitized skin is frequently confused with sensitive skin. Understanding the difference is crucial for proper skin care.
Sensitive skin is a genetic trait, whereas sensitized skin results from lifestyle and environmental influences.
About Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin is a hereditary condition characterized by ongoing redness, flushing, and sensitivity. This redness occurs because of a thin epidermis and blood vessels near the skin's surface. Sensitive skin issues usually stem from a compromised skin barrier that allows irritants to enter. The most prevalent sensitive skin condition is rosacea, mainly affecting women aged 30-50. Other conditions include psoriasis, which shows as thick, red, scaly patches with itchiness and irritation, and eczema or dermatitis, which appears as a dry, itchy rash.
Treating Sensitive Skin
Addressing sensitive skin conditions requires using products that balance active and soothing ingredients to enhance the skin's barrier function.
About Sensitized Skin
Sensitized skin arises from environmental factors. Many individuals experience increased sensitivity to topical ingredients due to air pollution, poor diet, alcohol consumption, or misuse of certain topical products. Harsh products like alcohol-based toners can dehydrate and irritate the skin, causing redness and sensitivity similar to a sunburn.
Treating Sensitized Skin
To improve sensitized skin, identify and eliminate the cause. For those affected by other skin products, reduce usage by applying less product nightly or using it less frequently until the skin adapts. Adding hydrating ingredients can also help reduce sensitivity.
1. Hydrating Serum: a great addition to products with ingredients like hylauronic acid, as it retains moisture and soothes the skin.
2. A more hydrating moisturizer: increased moisture at night can help restore the barrier function weakened by aggressive ingredients.
3. Broad spectrum sunscreen: some ingredients can increase sensitivity to the sun's harmful rays, making the skin more prone to burning. Applying broad spectrum sunscreen daily and reapplying every two hours when outdoors can prevent sun-related sensitivities.
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