Sensitive v. Sensitize

When it comes to skin health, there are so many differences that can cause confusion. Is your skin truly sensitive? Or is it sensitized? And what's the difference anyway? Let's look at the difference, and how to identify which category your skin falls into. The answer may be more straightforward than you originally thought.

 

Sensitive Skin is caused by a genetic predisposition. It is easily irritated by products and exposure to the sun. It flushes easily and may appear red due to the blood flow being closer to the surface. Sensitive skin is a result of a weak protective function. Its skin is so delicate its outer layer lets irritants, allergens, etc. pass-through causing reactions.

 

Sensitized Skin is a temporary condition, triggered by external factors. These factors are:

  • Lifestyle - Diet, Smoking, Dehydration, Alcohol, and Toxic ingredients.
  • Environment - Weather, Pollution, and Allergies 
  • Physiology - Stress or Hormonal fluctuations
  • Acne - Rosacea, Eczema, and Psoriasis

 

 

It's hard work, caring for your skin. Now that you know how to distinguish between sensitive and sensitized skin you must protect it. Here's my favorite ways to calm inflamed skin. First, always patch test. Always. Second, use high antioxidant skincare products. Third, use gentle formula products. Lastly, fragrance free or lightly scented products tend to not trigger reactions.