Skincare for Sensitive Skin: how to take care of your skin's needs
Sensitive skin is characterized by a tendency to react to external stimuli, requiring special attention for its treatment. Those with this skin type often find themselves managing a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity and frequency. For this reason, adopting a specific skincare routine for sensitive skin is important not only for protecting it, but also for nourishing and strengthening it against potential irritants.
Let's learn more about sensitive skin and how to treat it.
What is meant by sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is a type of skin that becomes particularly reactive when exposed to external stimuli such as pollutants, allergens, extreme temperatures and common chemical or natural substances found in cosmetic products. This reactivity manifests through a series of symptoms such as redness, itching and burning sensations that can sometimes lead to flaking. These reactions are often the result of a less robust skin barrier that struggles to effectively protect the skin from irritants and to retain the necessary moisture. Consequently, the skin becomes drier and more susceptible to inflammation.
For this reason, those with sensitive skin must adopt particularly careful and dedicated skincare, aimed at strengthening the skin barrier and alleviating symptoms, thus ensuring the well-being and health of the skin.
The causes behind sensitive skin
There are several factors that can contribute to making the skin particularly reactive and delicate:
- Genetic factors: some people are born with a naturally thinner skin barrier or with a lesser amount of protective lipids which make it more susceptible and reactive.
- Environmental factors: cold, excessive heat, sun exposure, pollution and even wind can aggravate the condition of sensitive skin as they further weaken the skin barrier, exposing the skin to further irritations.
- Irritating chemicals: present in many cosmetics and even in some fabrics, can cause redness, itching and flaking. Also, excessive use of aggressive skin treatments, such as chemical peels or mechanical scrubs, can eventually damage the skin barrier.
- Underlying health conditions: conditions like eczema, psoriasis or allergies may pre-exist or develop over time, increasing skin sensitivity. Hormonal imbalances can also affect skin health, altering its ability to function as it should.
- Lifestyle: stress, a diet lacking in essential nutrients or harmful habits such as smoking or alcohol can compromise the skin's ability to regenerate and protect itself effectively.
Becoming aware of these causes can help those with sensitive skin identify and modify some of their habits or environmental exposures, facilitating symptom management and improving overall skin health.
The essential steps for a perfect Skincare for Sensitive Skin
To treat sensitive skin, careful consideration of various aspects is necessary. First and foremost, one should use a specific skincare routine designed for sensitive skin, composed of several steps and using appropriate cosmetic products for sensitive skin types.
Let’s see how to correctly build a specific skincare routine.
1. Makeup removal
The process begins with extremely gentle makeup removal.
You can opt for using micellar water, which dissolves impurities and makeup without the need to rub the skin. However, a valid alternative is our gentle Bifase dual-phase makeup remover, which, when used daily before cleansing, not only effectively cleanses the face and eyes - even from waterproof makeup - but also leaves a sensation of freshness and a pleasant scent. The result is visibly clean, hydrated and fragranced skin, perfectly prepared to receive subsequent skincare treatments.
2. Gentle cleansing
Maintaining the natural balance of the skin tissue is crucial, so it is fundamental to choose a cleanser with a neutral pH, specifically formulated for the needs of sensitive skin. Our Olea Cleansing Oil is an excellent choice for those looking for extremely gentle cleansing because it adapts perfectly to even the most sensitive skin, preserving the essential hydro-lipidic film for skin protection. Its oily texture allows for effective removal of makeup and impurities without causing irritation, ensuring deep yet gentle cleaning.
3. Exfoliation
Exfoliation might seem risky for sensitive skin, but by choosing the right products, it can be highly beneficial. It is advisable to use a non-abrasive exfoliant with BHA, which is gentle and does not require rinsing, ideal for smoothing and soothing the skin while reducing redness and unclogging pores. For particularly sensitive skin, we recommend our Adamante Mousse which, diluted with water to prevent irritation, thanks to its formula, performs an antioxidant action and counteracts free radicals, maintaining skin balance.
If you prefer an even gentler alternative, the Pumilia Gommage can be an excellent choice: thanks to its compensatory action, it mitigates the exfoliating effect without irritating the skin and keeps it protected.
4. Thermal water application
Soothe your skin with a spray of Nebula thermal water, which is rebalancing and suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types. The Salsobromoiodic Fossil Water from Salsomaggiore Terme, included in the product, is known for its beneficial properties. It not only refreshes and soothes but also, thanks to its bio-stimulating action, repairs and remineralizes the skin, promoting cellular renewal. The result is brighter, visibly healthier skin, ready for the next steps in your skincare routine.
5. Serum application
The next step in skincare for sensitive skin is the application of a serum, specifically formulated to meet the needs of this skin type. It penetrates deeply to offer an intensive treatment that acts directly on the causes of skin sensitivity.
The Serum face serum is developed to rebalance the pH of the skin, including sensitive and impure skin. It contains Osmomimetic Active, an ingredient that helps restore the pH balance and hydration of the skin. This serum not only addresses visible problems but also works on underlying causes, promoting healthier and more resilient skin over time.
6. Hydration
Hydration is a fundamental element in the care routine for sensitive skin, as a proper hydro-lipidic balance helps to keep the skin soft, elastic and more protected from external aggressions.
Using a specific cream for sensitive skin daily is essential to achieve these benefits. For daily use, you can choose our Diurna Protective Day Face Cream, which offers a thermoregulation effect and helps to keep the skin protected from external agents and signs of aging. Its light and velvety texture absorbs quickly, leaving the skin hydrated and firm.
For the night, consider the Nocturna Night Repair Face Cream, which works while you sleep to normalize and gently repair the skin. It provides immediate comfort, reducing redness and irritation and promotes deep regeneration. Upon waking, the skin appears luminous, deeply hydrated and soft to the touch, with a delicate balance and a gentle vanilla scent.
7. Sun Protection
Sun protection is a crucial step in skincare for sensitive skin, essential for defending it not only from UV rays but also from pollution, which can exacerbate skin sensitivity and accelerate skin aging. Using a daily sun protection product specifically for sensitive skin helps to keep the skin protected, reducing the onset of redness, irritation and other signs of environmental damage.
Tips on how to treat Sensitive Skin
Skincare for sensitive skin can support your skin and help you regain health and wellness, but there are also other daily practices that can help you treat your skin in the best way.
For example, choose specific products for sensitive skin containing gentle ingredients known for their effectiveness in strengthening and protecting the skin barrier without causing irritation. Components such as aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and ceramides are ideal because they help to restore and maintain the skin's natural moisture. It is also essential to opt for completely fragrance-free products, as fragrances can be among the main factors causing skin reactions in sensitive skin.
During daily cleansing, it is important to use lukewarm water and avoid hot water, as high temperatures can aggravate dryness and irritation. After washing, dry the face by gently patting with a soft towel, avoiding rubbing to prevent further irritation of the skin.
Additionally, it is important to maintain a good level of hydration and moderate the consumption of alcohol and caffeine, as these substances can dehydrate the skin, making it more vulnerable and reactive. Managing stress can also be helpful, as it can directly influence skin sensitivity.
By consistently adopting these measures, you can improve the resilience of your sensitive skin and alleviate associated symptoms, promoting optimal skin health.
Taking care of Sensitive Skin to regain Beauty and Wellness
Caring for sensitive skin requires attention and dedication, but with the right routine, it is possible to keep the skin healthy and protected from irritations and sensitivities. Adopting these practices will not only improve the appearance and health of your skin but will also contribute to overall well-being, allowing you to live your daily life with more comfort and confidence. With the right precautions and suitable products, your sensitive skin can regain beauty and health.
