Everyone’s skin is sensitive to some extent. It may become irritated, for example when it reacts to the environment around us or to something we apply to it. The reaction is not always visible. In many cases, this is a subcutaneous (under the top layer of skin) process. If this is the case, you may not see a rash but can still have severe burning or itching. But the reaction may also build up, causing a rash or redness.
WHAT CAUSES IRRITATED SKIN?
The main causes of irritated skin are sun damage, environmental factors (including the weather) and fragrances (including aromatic plant oils). Fragrances, whether synthetic or natural, are perhaps the least obvious cause of skin irritation. They usually smell lovely, but the scent of fragrant ingredients comes from a volatile reaction, which may cause skin irritation. We all love our fancy, aromatic products, but they are not always good for us.
EFFECTS OF IRRITATED SKIN
Often, irritated skin may involve more than just redness or itching. The skin will recover less easily if it is irritated, supporting substances such as collagen and elastin will be broken down and the outer layer (skin barrier) will be weakened.
Moreover, irritated skin has a higher chance of developing wrinkles, brown spots and other signs of skin ageing on top of everything else. In people with oily skin, skin inflammation may have an effect on the nerve endings in the pores that stimulate hormone production, increasing sebum production and the likelihood of enlarged pores. This is why irritated skin is more prone to acne.
What can you do?
1. Be gentle
Avoid harsh scrubbing and over exfoliating
2. Ditch the fragrance
This includes “natural” fragrances. Fragrances are known irritants.
3. Keep your natural barrier intact
Your skin is an amazing organ if it is functioning properly. Maintain a healthy pH balance and moisturize daily.
If you are so prone to irritation that you are afraid to use more than water, schedule a 20-min video consultation with me! We will discuss your skin concerns and goals, and I will design a custom skin care routine that will help you achieve your goals with frustrating burning, itching, and other irritations.
To your perfect skin,
Kimberly
Creator & CEO of Perfect Skin Code
