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Sensitive skin: Home remedies and prevention
www.medicalnewstoday.com | Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD — Written by Jon Johnson — Sensitive skin is a common issue but not a medical diagnosis by itself. The term generally refers to skin that is more prone to inflammation. The cause of the inflammation may differ for each person.
Oatmeal
Oats may be especially helpful for people with sensitive skin. Research shows that applying colloidal oatmeal to the skin may help with symptoms such as People with generally sensitive skin have local reactions to chemicals, dyes, and rashes, dry skin, and eczema. fragrances present in products that come into contact with their skin. Oatmeal is effective because it improves the skin’s barrier rather than just treatThey may also get rashes or irritation from clothing or friction. Some people are ing the symptoms. Applying a colloidal oatmeal paste to sensitive skin may help allergic to certain substances and may react on their skin. manage symptoms. Sensitive skin may also be a symptom of an underlying condition. Finding ways Other tips to avoid potential triggers and soothe irritated skin may help people with sensi- People with sensitive skin may also be able to minimize symptoms by: tive skin find relief and improve their quality of life. - Taking shorter showers and baths that last less than 10 minutes - Avoiding using very hot water for bathing and washing the hands Treatment - Avoiding harsh fragrances, detergents, or other chemicals Treating sensitive skin typically involves finding and eliminating triggers, as well using fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products, such as soaps, deodorant, and as using home remedies or prescription medications to treat the symptoms: detergent - Avoiding harsh chemical cleaners - Patting rather than rubbing the body dry Medical treatments Depending on the cause of sensitive skin and the accompanying symptoms, testing new products on a small area of skin before applying them to more extensive areas. doctors may prescribe a few different medications. They include: Steroid creams: Both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription-strength steroid A person can keep a journal of the products that they use each day to help them creams such as hydrocortisone may help relieve inflammation and itchiness. identify any possible triggers of symptoms on their skin. If the person finds a product they believe is causing a reaction, they should stop using it and take it to People should not use them on the face. their dermatologist to undergo testing for allergies. Analgesic creams: Numbing creams may help reduce itchiness, which could Causes make the person less likely to scratch or irritate the area. In many cases, having sensitive skin is generally not a cause for serious concern, Antihistamines: Taking an oral antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benad- as it likely stems from a minor allergy or underlying skin condition ryl), may help with some allergic reactions. Protective sunscreen: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor Natural disposition (SPF) of 30 or higher can help protect sensitive skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays. If a person has sensitive skin with no underlying health condition, their skin may become irritated more easily.
Home remedies and prevention
Some home remedies may also help treat or prevent sensitive skin symptoms. They include:
Moisturizers Hypoallergenic moisturizers and lotions may reduce dryness without irritating sensitive skin. Some ingredients may work better than others, depending on the type of sensitivity.
Many people experienceTrusted Source irritation after exposure to: sunlight heavy winds very cold temperatures very hot temperatures Additionally, a person with sensitive skin may be more prone to reactions to skincare products, makeup, or certain types of clothing. The symptoms of sensitive or reactive skin may appear in numerous ways, including:
For instance, people with very dry skin may respond well to ingredients such as urea or lactic acid. Some simple oils, such as shea butter or coconut oil, may work better for others. It is always important to test a product on a small area of skin before applying it to the rest of the affected skin.
TT 146 | MAR 29th - April 4th | 2022
