Tips for Sensitive Skin, San Diego
Sensitive Skin Care
The defination of ‘sensitive skin’ is simply an ‘abnormal reaction to common ingredients and conditions’ . In most cases, what causes irritation is a compromised skin barrier. Causes can be the drying effects of cold and wind, cleansing to often and with harsh soaps, over-exfoliation, allergies or perhaps an underlying condition such as rosacea or acne. The good news is that there are things that we can do to help minimize the effects. There are many products out there that are of the most common irritants, which are frangrances, alcohols, and preservatives but still have powerful anti-agers.
Prescription-strength retinoids, such as Retin-A and Tazorac, work fast to minimize facial lines, speed up cell renewal rate and produce collegen and leave skin clearer and brighter. But for people that have sensitive skin, it can lead to redness, itchiness and flaking. Even over-the-counter products may be too much for some. I recommend retinol products that also contain anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as green tea, white tea, or oat derivatives. You may also look for hyaluronic acid that will help the skin retain its moisture.
The most effective skin-lightening ingredient is hydroquinone. Hydroquinone inhibits melanin production, but can aggravate sensitive skin. I recommend natural amino acids, licorice, soy, kojic and mandelic. They will alleviate hyperpigmentation more gently. Look for products that are formulated for sensitive skin and that say “brightening”. But most importantly, make sure to use your sunscreen to keep spots from getting any darker or forming new ones.
Dullness is caused by the build-up of dry, dead skin cells. Removing them can be tricky. Grainy scrubs can be too scratchy and people tend to scrub too hard. Chemical exfoliators like glycolic acid and topical vitamin C can leave you red and stinging. The key is to use products specifically formulated for sensitive skin that can be used as often as every other day. If you exfoliate once a week, you will not see as much of a cumulative benefit.
Chemical suncreens that contain avobenzone and oxybenzone, block the suns rays but can lead to redness and irritation. If you tend to get red or itchy after applying an SPF, try switching to a broad-spectrum formula that uses natural ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and many now contain calming ingredients such as oatmeal, chamomile and aloe.
Please contact our office, Del Mar Plastic Surgery in San Diego with any questions/concerns or to schedule a consultation, 858-450-9100. Thank you!