6 steps to calm sensitive skin
Trade in flare-ups for an always-flawless complexion
Trade in flare-ups for an always-flawless complexion
Fact: According to research conducted by the International Dermal Institute and Dermalogica, eight out of 10 people have sensitised their skin in the past year.
Also fact: The same research found that one in three people have cancelled a social commitment because of their complexion.
To avoid being part of this astounding statistic, and to keep your sensitive skin free from redness and flare-ups, follow these six skin care steps. Your skin will be happy and healthy in no time.
1
Switch your cleanser
Swap your gel formula for a cleansing milk. If skin is particularly sensitive, ditch water completely and use a pH-balanced micellar water instead.
Try: Dior Gentle Cleansing Milk – Dry or Sensitive Skin; NIVEA Daily Essentials Sensitive Caring Micellar Water
2
Cut back on exfoliating
Opt for fewer weekly sessions (one or two is best) and switch to a chemical exfoliant. “Salicylic acid, lactic acid or digestive enzymes (derived from pineapple and papaya) are good on sensitive skin,” says Emma Hobson, Education Manager for the International Dermal Institute and Dermalogica.
3
Opt for gentle masking formulas
Ditch the clay mask for a “calming, hydrating mask for 10 minutes, twice a week”, says Hobson.
4
Use soothing serums
Trade your active serum for one with anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties to rebuild the skin barrier. “When used on a regular basis they make skin less reactive,” shares Hobson.
5
Add a barrier repair product
Step away from multitasking moisturisers and opt for a water-gel formulation designed to treat an impaired barrier. “They also control and protect skin [from moisture loss],” advises Hobson.
6
Choose SPF wisely
A physical sunscreen can be less irritating on upset skin. “Some skin only tolerates physical sunscreens, which use titanium dioxide and zinc oxide,” explains Hobson. Chemical formulas, meanwhile, are “lightweight” and great for skin that can’t handle heaviness.
If you're suffering from redness and want to disappear it stat, here are our top tips for how to cover redness.
For more skin care advice from marie claire, check out marieclaire.com.au
Do you have sensitive skin? How do you look after it?
Main image credit: Getty
marie claire Beauty Director, Sally Hunwick joined the marie claire team in 2017. Previously Sally has worked on Cosmopolitan as Beauty and Lifestyle Director, Women’s Health as Contributing Beauty Editor, and Harper's BAZAAR and Dolly as Beauty Writer and Beauty Editor respectively. An award-winning journalist with a long-running career both in Australia and in the UK, Sally is passionate about all things beauty and health.
