Common Causes of Sensitized Skin

 

Sensitized skin is skin that has become temporarily reactive, inflamed, or easily irritated due to external or internal factors—not the same as naturally sensitive skin, which is usually genetic. Sensitized skin is triggered by damage to the skin barrier, leading to redness, stinging, dryness, or breakouts.

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🔍 Common Causes of Sensitized Skin:

1. Overuse of Active Ingredients

• Too much retinol, exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs), vitamin C, or benzoyl peroxide

• Layering too many actives without buffer time

2. Over-cleansing or Harsh Products

• Foaming cleansers with sulfates, or high pH

• Using hot water or scrubbing too hard

3. Environmental Stressors

• Sun exposure, wind, cold weather, pollution, or humidity changes

• Airborne allergens

4. Compromised Skin Barrier

• Stripping natural oils

• Not moisturizing enough

• Using alcohol-heavy or fragrance-heavy products

5. Stress or Lack of Sleep

• Increases cortisol, which weakens the skin’s ability to protect itself

6. Poor Diet or Dehydration

• Lack of essential fatty acids or hydration affects skin resilience

7. Allergic Reactions

• Fragrance, preservatives (like parabens or formaldehyde releasers), or essential oils

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🛡️ How to Help Sensitized Skin:

1. Stop All Actives Temporarily

   • No exfoliants, retinoids, or harsh treatments.

2. Simplify Your Routine

   • Gentle cleanser

   • Hydrating toner or essence

   • Barrier-repair moisturizer (look for ceramides, niacinamide, squalane, panthenol)

3. Use a Humidifier

   • Especially helpful in dry indoor environments.

4. Reintroduce Actives Slowly

   • Once skin has calmed (after 1–2 weeks), start with low-frequency use.

5. Wear SPF Daily

   • Mineral sunscreen is usually best for sensitized skin.