The skin barrier is its outermost layer: it holds in moisture and protects it from the outside. When it's in good shape you barely notice it. When it's sensitive, everything stings.
Signs your barrier is feeling sensitive
- Stinging or itching when applying products you used to tolerate.
- A tight feeling after washing your face.
- Redness that shows up easily.
- Rough or flaky patches.
What usually makes it sensitive
The most common cause is overdoing it: frequent exfoliation, combining several strong actives, washing with very hot water or using harsh cleansers. Cold, wind and sun also play a part.
How to care for it
- Pause exfoliants and strong actives for a couple of weeks.
- Wash with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser.
- Use a moisturizer with ceramides or soothing ingredients.
- Apply sunscreen every day.
- Introduce new products one at a time.
Once your skin feels comfortable again, you can slowly go back to your routine. Gentle ingredients like copper peptide and hyaluronic acid usually fit well at this stage.
If the irritation doesn't improve, gets worse or comes with swelling, see a dermatologist.
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