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If
you have sensitive skin, you may think you’re doomed to a life of
rashes, irritations and allergic reactions. But is your skin really as
sensitive as you think it is? Perhaps not.
Many of the problems we attribute to sensitive skin are actually caused
by the misuse of skin care products. For instance, many of us, in our
haste to achieve better results faster, simply use too many products at
once. This typically results in the kinds of symptoms -- irritation, redness,
inflammation -- that lead us to believe our skin is sensitive when, in
actuality, it’s merely overwhelmed.
Simply put, you should always abide by the general rule that more is not
necessarily better. This is especially true in the case of stronger products
such as retinoids, glycolic products and vitamin-C products.
Getting
your skin back to normal
If you are currently experiencing irritation, begin by discontinuing all products
that may be causing or contributing to the irritation until the redness goes
away. Switch to a mild cleanser such as All-in-One
Cleanser with Toner by
MD Skincare or Cetaphil.
For a quick relief from red and irritated skin, try Ole Henriksen Pick
Me Up Face Tonic.
To reduce inflammation, apply cold milk compresses to your face for five to
ten minutes 2 to 3 times a day.
If you try all of the above and the irritation does not subside within
a few days consult your dermatologist.
Getting
the most from your products
Once your skin is back to normal, follow the rules below to ensure that
you get the best results from your skin care products:
- Address
one concern at a time. In other words, treat your acne, before you treat
your wrinkles. Once you’ve solved one concern, you can move on
to the next.
- If
necessary, adjust the frequency of applications. Although directions
on product labels work for most people most of the time, you can always
play it safe by starting off slowly and gradually increasing to the
recommended frequency.
- Don’t
use more product than indicated. Before you slather on that eye cream,
remember: not only are you asking for problems, you’re also wasting
product.
- Change
with the seasons. When it’s cold or windy, lessen the use of stronger
products, and moisturize more.
- Avoid
known skin irritants. Be on the lookout for artificial fragrances, SD
alcohol, PABA, harsh scrubs as well as high concentrations of benzoyl
peroxide and glycolic acid.
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