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Skincare Ingredients To Avoid If You Have Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin requires extra care and attention when it comes to skincare. If you're on a quest for a serum for sensitive skin or seeking the best sensitive skincare products, it's crucial to be aware of the ingredients that might trigger irritation and discomfort. In this article, we will talk about what sensitive skin is, its causes, and the worst ingredients to avoid. Additionally, we'll address everything surrounding skincare for sensitive skin.

In This Article: 

What Is Sensitive Skin?

Causes Of Sensitive Skin

What Is Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin is a condition where the skin reacts easily to external factors, leading to redness, itching, burning, or dryness. Individuals with sensitive skin often find it challenging to select suitable skincare products, and choosing the wrong ingredients can exacerbate the problem.

Causes Of Sensitive Skin

Identifying if you have sensitive skin involves recognising certain indicators: Here are the main causes that lead to sensitivity.

1. Your Skin Reacts Quickly

If your skin seems to have a mind of its own, reacting to detergents, exfoliants, or fragrances etc. you might be in the sensitive skin club. These stimuli can induce itchiness or redness and in some cases, dryness creating a dialogue between your senses and your skin.

2. Your Skin Becomes Red

Redness becomes a common companion for those with sensitive skin. This leads to red rashes or bumps, even the appearance of red dilated blood vessels. Gentle pressure on the skin might provoke a reddish response.

3. Your Skin Is Triggered By External Factors

Stepping into the great outdoors transforms into a potential minefield for sensitive skin. Think heat, wind etc. are capable of aggravating the skin. Winters, in particular, poses a risk, as it can dry out sensitive skin, making it susceptible to breakouts and cracks.

4. Sunburn Problems

Sensitive skin raises the stakes in the sun exposure game. Already prone to irritation or peeling, it becomes more vulnerable to the sun's harmful effects, increasing the risk of sunburn and further aggravating the skin.

Ingredients To Avoid For Sensitive Skin

1. Fragrances

Fragrances, both natural and synthetic, can be potent irritants for sensitive skin. They are often used to enhance the sensory experience of skincare products but can lead to redness, itching, or allergic reactions. Opt for fragrance-free products to minimise the risk of adverse skin reactions.

2. Alcohol

Alcohol, the MVP of parties, but denatured alcohol in the skincare department is the worst ingredient for sensitive skin. Add alcohol-free alternatives to the skincare soirée for hydration that won’t leave your skin feeling parched.

3. Sulphates

Harsh detergents like sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate are known to cause dryness and irritation. Choose sulphate-free cleansers to gently cleanse the skin without compromising its natural moisture barrier.

4. Parabens

Parabens, widely used as preservatives in skincare products, have been associated with skin irritation and allergic reactions. Opt for paraben-free alternatives to reduce the risk of sensitive skin.

5. Synthetic Dyes

Artificial colours in skincare products may cause skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. Choose products that are labeled as dye-free to minimise the risk of allergic reactions.

6. Harsh Exfoliants

Abrasive exfoliants are quite overzealous and can be too much for sensitive skin. Choose gentle exfoliants from our list of face scrubs, that promise to stay smoother, and less abrasive on the skin. 

7. Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens, the potential troublemakers, might not play well with sensitive skin. Swap them out for physical sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide – let the sun protection party be gentle yet effective.

8. Too Many Actives

A frequent misstep among individuals with sensitive skin lies in the temptation to cram their skincare routine with a multitude of active ingredients. This can overwhelm your skin and make it even worse. Think of it as giving your skin a break. Instead of bombarding it with too many things, introduce new products slowly.

9. Essential Oils

While essential oils offer natural fragrance and therapeutic benefits, they can be problematic for sensitive skin. Some essential oils may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Petroleum-based Ingredients

Mineral oil and petrolatum, commonly found in moisturisers, can be comedogenic and may lead to breakouts in sensitive skin. Opt for non-petroleum-based moisturisers with ingredients like Witch Hazel, aloe etc.

Best Ingredients For Sensitive Skin

1. Ceramides

Sensitive skin in distress? Give Ceramides a try. These naturally occurring lipids fortify the skin barrier, reducing redness and irritation. Take a good look at our skin barrier range - that includes Replenishing Cleanser and Gel Cleanser along with two hydrating creams. Give your skin barrier a permanent shield with this range.

2. Witch Hazel

Redness or acne-prone skin, Witch Hazel ingredient always comes in handy. This natural astringent boasts anti-inflammatory properties, gently toning the skin and minimising redness. Our Soothing Facial Toner comes with Witch Hazel ingredient that calms your skin and keeps it sane at all times.

3. Bisabolol

Bisabolol, a soothing ingredient, takes centre stage in calming sensitive skin. With anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties, it alleviates redness and irritation. This one might be an underrated ingredient but if you need a soothing wash for your skin, look nowhere other than our 100% soap-free Moisturising Facial Wash. It also steers clear of harsh chemicals, colours and perfume, making it suitable for your skin type.

4. Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid, a hydration hero, has the ability to attract and retain moisture. It quenches your skin's thirst without overwhelming it, leaving your skin plump, supple, and free from the constraints of redness. If you are looking for the best face serum, here’s a gem from Simple - Booster Serum 3% Hyaluronic Acid + Vit B5. It supercharges your skin with its formulation. Furthermore, it helps promote soft smoother skin.

5. Niacinamide

Niacinamide, a skin-loving ally, helps calm redness, refine texture, and brighten skin. This powerful ingredient has a potent formula that strengthens your skin barrier as well and prevents moisture loss. Before you get more puzzled, check out our 10% Niacinamide Booster Serum. For instant absorption and even skin tone, this one is the best face serum for sensitive skin to go for.

6. Glycerin

Glycerin, the moisturising ingredient, creates a protective layer on your skin, preventing moisture loss and enhancing hydration. Glycerin ensures that your skin remains moisturised reducing the chances of redness flare-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:1 What triggers could cause a flare-up in those with sensitive skin?

A. Flare-ups can be triggered by various factors, including harsh weather, certain skincare products, and environmental pollutants.

Q:2 How can one differentiate between sensitive skin and allergic reaction?

A. Sensitive skin is a skin type prone to reactions, while an allergic reaction is an immune response to a specific allergen.

Q:3 What's the recommended routine for those dealing with sensitive skin?

A. A gentle skincare routine involving fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic products is recommended. Patch-test new products and introduce them gradually. Check out our entire range of Simple Skincare products as they are free from harsh chemicals and are apt for your sensitive skin.

Q:4 How can diet or lifestyle changes impact sensitive skin?

A. Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can positively impact sensitive skin. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and manage stress levels.

Q:5 What types of skincare products are most suitable for sensitive skin?

A. Opt for gentle cleansers, fragrance-free moisturisers, and serums designed for sensitive skin. Always check product labels for potential irritants.

Needhi Dhoker
Written by Needhi Dhoker on Dec 21, 2023
Fashion & beauty fanatic. Tea or coffee dilemmas. John Mayer vibes. Spilling words and swooning over skincare.
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