These skin concerns are often acquired through inappropriate product usage and internal and external stressors. It is time to learn more!
A sensitivity is characterised by skin that becomes reddened quickly which is often accompanied by itching or discomfort. It reacts more readily in contact with external skin irritants and people frequently report to be ‘allergic’ to certain skincare products. Sensitivity and redness can indicate a skin type but, in most cases, it is acquired through excessive cleansing routines and the overuse of over-the-counter moisturisers. Nevertheless, the skin barrier function is compromised in both cases.
There are several clinical conditions that are characterised by redness of the skin. These include conditions such as:
Or the combination of these.
Although hot beverages and alcohol as well as spicy food can cause flare-ups, focusing on maintaining an overall healthy diet that is rich in plants and essential fatty acids is more important. Eating the rainbow and incorporating avocados and fatty fish into your diet will ensure that your skin receives a sufficient amount of antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids. These nutrients have anti-inflammatory and barrier strengthening effects on the skin which are proven to be effective in reducing the symptoms of sensitivity and redness.
There is evidence to show that stress can exacerbate these skin conditions as well. Practising meditation and breathing exercises can ease stress and facilitate a better quality of sleep. Yoga is a great choice of exercise as it incorporates and mixes these practices with strengthening and stretching.
Using a cleanser with gentle, foaming, or creamy consistency containing calming ingredients such as beta-glucan, aloe and chamomile is imperative to implement into your skin care routine. Gentle, yet effective chemical exfoliation such as azelaic acid and serums rich in antioxidants like niacinamide can effectively calm and rejuvenate the skin at the same time. In the case of rosacea, oil controlling ingredients including salycilic acid are also necessary to treat the root cause of this condition.
In general, the ‘first steps to skin health’ regiment is highly recommended for these skin concerns as it strengthens the barrier function of the skin which then becomes more resilient against skin irritants and stressors as a result.
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