Series 3- Sensitive Skin
Welcome to the third article in the “Know your skin type” series that focuses on sensitive skin. It highlights the main features of sensitive skin, as well as the recommended skincare regimen for sensitive skin.
Definition
Sensitive skin is defined as a sensory reaction triggered by particular ingredients found in skincare products, stress and environmental factors (cold, heat, sun, pollution, moisture). Sensations described by patients vary largely: pruritus, burning, tingling, pungency, thickening or dryness of the skin. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after contact with a cosmetic product/ environmental stimulant or even after several episodes of use of a topical product (Duarte et al., 2017).
Sensitive skin is generally used to describe skin with reduced tolerance to the application of cosmetics and personal care products. In this regard, a user is highly susceptible to itching and irritation following application of skincare products.
Risk factors for sensitive skin
- Gender: There is a higher prevalence of sensitive skin (50% to 61%) reported in women than men (30% to 44%). This is attributed to a thinner skin barrier and hormonal changes in women.
2.Ethnicity: Higher sensitivity and the manifestation of erythema has been found in Caucasians, followed by Asians, and then Blacks.
3.Age: More cases of sensitivity have been reported in younger patients below the age of 18 years than in adults. Over time, the skin forms a more integral structure that is less susceptible to sensitivity.
4. Body region: Sensitivity has been reported on the face as compared to other parts of the body. This can be attributed to the increased exposure of the face to allergens contained in skincare products.
5. Underlying skin conditions that alter the skin structure such as acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and inflammation can predispose a patient to sensitive skin.
6.Environmental factors: Pollution, especially, in urban areas, can trigger skin sensitivity.
7. Ingredients in cosmetics: Some irritants found in skincare products also cause sensitivity, and the most common ones include, artificial fragrances, alcohol, alpha hydroxy acids, propylene glycol, etc.
Skin Patch Test
The skin patch test is a simple procedure that you can undertake to screen for any allergens in your skincare products. This comes in handy for individuals with sensitive skin whenever you need to use a new skincare product but are worried about possible side effects on your skin.
Simple skin patch test
Apply a small amount of the skincare product behind your earlobe or inner forearm. Wait for 48 hours and observe for any adverse reaction.
Medical skin patch test
You can visit a dermatologist for more rigorous patch testing. The potential allergen is applied in skin patches placed at the patient’s back for 48 hours. The test typically involves three appointments over the course of a week: the first to apply the patches, a second to have them removed and checked for immediate reactions, and a final one to assess delayed reactions and discuss the results. During the testing period, patients must avoid water, sweat, and rigorous activities that could displace the patches.
Skincare Regimen
- Cleanser: Use a soap free cleanser that is gentle and hydrating on the skin.
- Toner: Choose toners that are alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and contain soothing and hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin.
- Moisturizer: Go for an all-natural moisturizer that nourishes and boosts the general health of your skin. Also, all natural moisturizers have fewer ingredients, which makes it easier to screen for potential allergens.
4. Suncare: Choose a fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreen with SPF 30 and above. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer sufficient protection to sensitive skin.
Avoid skincare products with irritants such as artificial fragrances, alcohol, alpha hydroxy acids, propylene glycol, etc. Natural scents such as essential oils in skincare products have been found to be well tolerated by sensitive skin.
References
Duarte, I., Silveira, J.E.P.S., Hafner, M.F.S., Toyota, R., & Pedroso, D.M.M. (2017). Sensitive skin: Review of an ascending topic. AnBras Dermatol. 92(4):521–525.
Author: Terry Wangechi (Biochemist & Research Scientist)
