The cosmetic products you use may make all the difference between healthy and damaged skin if you're the "sensitive" type. People with skin that is delicate, prone to allergic reaction, aging, or affected by an eczema condition may rely on cosmetic products to maintain a healthy texture and appearance. But using the wrong product or combination of products can harm sensitive skin.
Features
Product labels and ingredient lists can point you toward cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreens that won't irritate sensitive skin. The Skin Sciences Institute defines gentle cleansers as those without deodorant, oil solvent or heavy scents. Moisturizers in body lotion and facial cream formulas should be noncomedogenic so that pores remain clear and functioning properly. Sunscreen should guarantee broad-spectrum absorption of both UVA and UVB rays at 30 SPF strength or higher.
Identification
The American Academy of Dermatology reports that irritation or allergic reactions to cosmetic products usually occur when fragrance, color or harsh preservative ingredients are present. These items appear near the end of the ingredients list on the package. Hydrating ingredients such as allantoin, glycerin, lanolin and aloe vera may counteract skin inflammation, but elements that benefit one person with sensitive skin may adversely affect another.
Misconceptions
Although known unsafe ingredients, such as certain color dyes, are prohibited in cosmetics by law, consumers may have to learn by trial and error whether their skin is reactive to a new skin care product. Testing of cosmetic products is not required by the Food and Drug Administration before items hit the market. Additionally, labeling a soap or cream formula "sensitive" is not a claim that the manufacturer must prove. Experts at the AAD urge consumers to do their homework on skin care ingredients before buying to avoid products that may cause problems.
Considerations
Sensitive skin that is merely delicate may not require professional treatment. Conditions such as acne, rosacea and eczema, however, may. If you have atopic dermatitis, for instance, even inactive ingredients can increase inflammation and dryness. A doctor's diagnosis can help you understand your skin condition, avoid permanent damage and provide product recommendations.
Warning
Even gentle cosmetic products can harm damaged tissue or skin with a chronic condition during a flareup. A simple sunburn may render your facial skin so tender that the products you usually use sting and inflame your face further. Discontinue applications while skin is sensitive, washing with only water, for instance, not soap, and staying indoors to avoid sun rather than putting on sunscreen.
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