Sensitive skin is a problem for millions of people. The uncomfortable feelings of stinging, burning, itching, redness and tightness can occur when certain ingredients found in everyday household products react to delicate skin after contact.
Being mindful of chemicals your skin comes in contact with and incorporating more natural, gentle products into your daily routine can help reduce these unwanted reactions.
“When it comes to choosing products, I recommend those that are hypoallergenic and have been clinically proven to be gentle on the skin,” said dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Hale, Ph.D. “Skin-friendly products include those that are mild in nature and free of alcohol, preservatives and dyes.”
Instead of disrupting your skin with irritants found in everyday household items, you can choose more gentle, dermatologist recommended products to keep your skin healthy and comfortable:
• Soap – Washing hands with antibacterial soap strips the natural oils and can result in dry, chapped skin. Choose mild soap, free of heavy scents or artificial dyes and wash hands with warm, not hot, water.
• Household cleaners – When it comes to household cleaners, it can be difficult to avoid harsh chemicals. To ensure your skin is protected, wear rubber gloves and long sleeves when it’s time for heavy cleaning. Look for products labeled for sensitive skin or consider making at-home cleaners with everyday products like baking soda for an all-natural alternative.
• Laundry products – If you’ve experienced discomfort where the skin is covered by clothing, there may be something in your laundry products causing the irritation. Try dye-free or skin-friendly scented options such as Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Plus Scent Laundry Detergent which removes tough grime and odors from dirty clothes without sacrificing scent for sensitivity.
• Facial creams – Wrinkle creams, skin peels and cleansers can sometimes cause more problems than they solve. Check the label for common irritants such as ascorbic acid, paraben preservatives, and the alpha hydroxyl acids glycolic acid, malic acid and lactic acid. Test a new product by dabbing a small amount behind your ear and leaving it on overnight each day for five days.
• Clothing – Rough fabrics such as wool can cause itchiness and rashes. Wear clothing made of soft, smooth, natural fabrics like cotton and silk. Clothing should be loose fitting, but with a minimum of creases and folds, which can cause more irritation.
If you’re unsure of how your skin will react to certain products, talk to your dermatologist. Taking good care of your skin just makes good sense. And taking a few simple precautions can keep your sensitive skin feeling good.
Source: Family Features. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
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