People of all ages can have sensitive skin, including people in their 20s. Sensitive skin is more prone to become red, irritated and inflamed from using standard skin care products. To cleanse, tone and moisturize sensitive skin, specialized skin care products should be used that will not exacerbate the skin.
Cleansers for Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin can become irritated very quickly from using a regular facial soap which contains artificial perfumes, dyes and other chemical additives. When using a soap or a cleanser on sensitive skin, use only one designed for sensitive skin types or a natural homemade soap that is free of artificial ingredients. Another alternative is to use a non-comedogenic oil to cleanse the skin, such as castor, olive or jojoba oil. These oils can be massaged into the skin to allow them to bond to the other oils and impurities in the pores, then flushed out with steam or hot water, carrying the impurities with them. Whichever cleansing method you prefer to use on your sensitive skin, the skin should only be cleansed twice per day or less to avoid irritation.
Toners for Sensitive Skin
Toning the skin helps to tighten the pores and remove dirt and impurities that cleansing may have left behind. Skin should be toned up to two times per day after the skin has been cleansed. Avoid alcohol-based toners, which can dry out and inflame sensitive skin. Also ensure that it does not contain ingredients designed to ward off wrinkles, such as salicylic acid, which can be highly irritating to the skin. Natural toners work well and can be made by combining a citrus juice, such as lemon juice, with a skin-soothing base, such as aloe vera gel. Combine 8 oz. of lemon juice with 2 Tbsp. of aloe vera gel in a bottle. Keep the toner refrigerated after use. Homemade lemon juice and aloe vera toner will last for up to one month.
Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin
Moisturizing the skin helps the skin stay hydrated and prevents the skin from becoming imbalanced and overproducing oils. The skin should be moisturized at least two times per day to keep it soft and supple. Many moisturizers on the market contain ingredients that are designed to treat wrinkles, but using these types of moisturizers on sensitive skin can cause irritation. Look for a moisturizer that is formulated specifically for sensitive skin types, which will be free of harsh chemical additives. A sensitive skin moisturizer will contain the most basic ingredients, such as non-comedogenic oils, beeswax, aloe vera and honey. Ingredients that should be avoided include artificial fragrances, mineral oil, petroleum, and additives such as Propylene Glycol or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, which are harmful and irritating to the skin. An alternative is to use a non-comedogenic oil to hydrate the face, such as jojoba oil, which absorbs easily and quickly into the skin and will not cause irritation.
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