Reports of sensitive skin are on the rise and it’s not a surprise when you look at the common causes and the links to modern-day living.

What is sensitive skin?

It isn’t the easiest thing to define. In fact, there isn’t really a diagnostic test for sensitive skin, but it is something that most of us will have at some point and can occur for a variety of reasons.   

Our skin has a natural protective barrier. The purpose of this barrier is to keep the skin hydrated by holding in moisture, as well as keeping bacteria and toxic substances from entering the body. In the case of sensitive skin, this protective barrier is more permeable so things that irritate or inflame your skin can get in more easily.

What are the symptoms of sensitive skin?

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. Symptoms can take various forms and can include, but aren’t limited to: Redness, itching, dryness, tightness, stinging and burning sensations.

What are the causes of sensitive skin?

There are many causes of sensitive skin, including both external and internal factors.

Weather: Climate and temperature changes can play havoc on our skin, not to mention the effect of sunburn!

Products: A lot of daily personal care and household products are full of toxins – these can cause significant damage to skin’s surface, removing skin-protecting lipids and causing an imbalance in skin’s natural pH levels.

Pollution: It’s all around us. From cars to cigarettes and dirt, our skin is constantly battling pollutants and these all wear down our skin’s natural protective barrier.

Food: Are you feeding your skin correctly and ensuring it has the essential nutrients it needs? Are you also aware of any allergies or intolerances you might have, as these can also cause sensitivity?

Dehydration: Skin needs to be kept hydrated so excess sweating or lack of water can cause dryness and place it under stress.

Age: Skin can lose its structure as we age making skin more sensitive.

Stress: The hormone and chemical imbalance caused by stress can weaken the skin. Ever had a breakout when you’ve been stressed? This is one way our skin tries to tell us to take it easy.

How can you help prevent sensitive skin?

Helping your skin comes down to daily habits. Some of the above causes are difficult for us to avoid but some can be easily treated.

Keep skin hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

Feed your skin the essential nutrients it needs by increasing your intake of food high in vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

Reduce stress by whatever means you can. Some useful tools are meditation and regular exercise.

Become a label reader. At BeBarefaced, we know that one of the causes of sensitive skin can be harsh chemicals and toxins in your daily skincare products. That’s why we are passionate about providing you with natural options that nourish and care for your skin instead of irritating and stripping it.

One of our favourites is our Nourishing Overnight Mask: Made using gentle ingredients, unlike many face masks this mask is perfect for sensitive, reaction prone skin and provides soothing relief for rosacea.

DISCOVER OUR NOURISHING OVERNIGHT MASK