SENSITIVE SKIN

Skin is broadly classified into 4 types: Normal, Oily, Dry and Combination skin. The fifth addition to this classification is a type commonly known as “Sensitive Skin”. Doctors and scientists do not completely agree about what 'sensitive skin' is, but it is considered to be a type of skin condition whereby the skin is easily irritated. Sensitive skin is prone to rashes and breakouts from any kind of irritants such as sun, perfumes, shaving cream, make-up, temperature extremes, and even soap. A sensitive skin appears thin or fine-textured and external factors that affect the skin make the skin look red and blotchy, with visible surface veins.
 
Some people with this condition are unable to tolerate contact with any cosmetic products- skincare and make-up, however well formulated they may be. Sensitive skin can be associated with a medical condition called atopy, where people have an inherited predisposition to eczema, have fever and asthma

Choosing the right beauty cosmetics is important when caring for sensitive skin. Here are a few sensitive skincare tips to make difficult decisions easy:
1 If your skin is very dry, applying oil such as baby oil is a good option.
2 Choose makeup, moisturizers and sunscreens that are hypo-allergenic and fragrance-free.
3 Look for products free of heavy dyes, perfumes or other additives.
4 Minimize the amount of cosmetics you use on your face.
5 Do not wash face more than two times a day.
6 Do not use exfoliants.
7 Use a toner on oily areas only, but discontinue if redness occurs. Toners tend to make skin dry.
8 Use a mild, soap-free cleanser.
9 When choosing make-up, especially foundation and blusher, buy oil-free products. Make-up that is water-based and non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) is the best option.
10 Use a daily sunscreen that is not oil-based, preferably a gel, as it's less greasy.
11 Select a moisturizer with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to help protect your skin from damaging ultraviolet rays.
12 If you have breakouts, use a cleanser with salicylic acid to help exfoliate pores. Salicylic acid in moisturizers can also be beneficial.
13 Use a moisturizing cream before retiring for the night.
Some key natural oils that prove beneficial to sensitive skin are:
1 Chamomile
2 Lavender
3 Neroli
4 Rose
5 Sandalwood