Lotion for dry, sensitive skin requires several considerations. You may want to consider a complete skin-care system that works with the lotion to address your overall dry, sensitive skin's needs. For example, cleansers are often too harsh on our face and body, causing the skin to become even more dry and sensitive. Nonetheless, adding a lotion for dry, sensitive skin to your daily skin-care program is a start.
Lotion Overview
In order to achieve good results, follow the directions. Using too sparingly will not necessarily protect sensitive skin and using in excess will not give instantly moisturized skin. In fact, it could result in irritation; particularly with sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is best treated with products that are hypoallergenic which protect against possible allergic reactions. Depending on just what your skin is sensitive to, you may find that oils and ointments provide better results than lotions.
Lotion Specifics
Sensitive skin folks may want to consider additional precautions. Consult with your dermatologist or skin-care esthetician if you are concerned about damaging your skin with certain products or ingredients. Dermatologists agree that there are several key ingredients in facial moisturizers to treat extremely dry skin. Hypoallergenic lotions that also include lanolin, oatmeal, antioxidants or aloe vera will provide excellent hydration. Soothe and hydrate with products that include vitamin A or E and oils such as eucalyptus oil.
Suntan Lotion
Dry, sensitive skin may need sunscreen precautions all the more. If you fear your sensitive skin may react to the ingredients in sunscreen, consider wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses when outside year round. Many sunscreens are marketed for sensitive skin. Look for labels that state "hypoallergenic" and gentle on children. This will indicate that it will be gentle on your skin, too. Use nothing lower than SPF 15, reapply often and wash off at the end of your sun-time.
Booster Moisturizers
At-home treatments often include over-night creams that claim to hydrate more deeply. You can also use weekly hydrating masks. A skin care esthetician can provide spa treatments that include not only hydrating masks but other steps to a facial that are custom-designed to your skin-care needs. Further, the massaging can sooth sensitive skin and stimulate elasticity; both of which dry, sensitive skin craves. Ask your skin care esthetician for at-home recommendations, too.
Other Considerations
Regardless of the results you find in adding a good lotion, there are other considerations to take into account. These include diet, water intake, environmental factors and lifestyle. To treat or curb dry, sensitive skin consider a well-balanced diet that includes all five food groups. Drink at least eight glasses of water. Avoid smoking and extended sun exposure which harm the skin. Do not excessively consume alcohol and caffeine which dehydrate the body--skin included.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Skin Problems --- Dry, Itchy Skin
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Skin Cancer Prevention
- Yoga Journal: Skin Soothers
- Yoga Journal: Yoga-Selfcare--How 'Natural' Is your Skin Care Product?
- Vanderbilt University: Antioxidants and Skin Care
- American Academy of Dermatology: ematology Insights; 2000
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