Firstly though, why are you suffering from sensitive skin?
Unfortunately sensitive skin can be caused by a variety of factors. It might be due to genetics (thanks mum and dad!), making your skin more reactive to certain triggers. Environmental factors such as pollution, extreme weather conditions, and exposure to harsh chemicals can also contribute. Over exfoliated skin or simply overuse of skincare products, especially those with strong fragrances or alcohol, can strip the skin's natural barrier, leading to sensitivity. Stress and hormonal changes can also play a significant role, disrupting the skin's balance. Additionally, underlying skin conditions like eczema or rosacea can cause heightened sensitivity. It’s best to try and identify and avoid your triggers (along with using gentle skincare products) to help manage your sensitive skin.The best skincare routine for sensitive skin
Step 1: Start with a Gentle Cleanser
The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing, but for sensitive skin, it's crucial to use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that doesn’t strip away natural oils. Opt for a fragrance-free, non-foaming cleanser with soothing and healing ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, niacinamide and chamomile.
Try: Naturys 2 in 1 Makeup Remover + Micellar Gel. Formulated with nasturtium and niacinamide, this natural 2-in-1 cleanser and makeup remover is good or all skin types but has been specifically targeted for sensitive skin. Gently but effectively it removes makeup, dirt and impurities from face and eyes without causing any irritation or dryness, leaving skin instantly fresh, soothed and more supple.
How to Use: Use your fingertips to apply the cleanser and gently massage onto your face in circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with soft towel to avoid further irritation.
Step 2: Hydrating Oil
Oils are like potent treatments that target specific concerns deeply nurturing the skin. For sensitive skin, choose an oil that focuses on hydration and calming effects.
Try: Naturys Sensitive Hydra Oil. This quick-absorbing soothing face oil is particularly suitable for sensitive skin types and is the best ally against skin redness and irritation, signs of stress, pollution and blue light. Rich in plant-based active ingredients, including blueberry oil, bisabolol, and lycopene, it protects skin from environmental damage while diffusing redness and discomfort.
How to Use: Apply a few drops to clean, dry or slightly damp face and neck, gently patting it into your skin until fully absorbed. Can be used alone or mixed with your moisturiser.
Step 3: Moisturiser
Moisturising is essential for locking in hydration and protecting your skin barrier. Choose a moisturiser that is free from fragrances, dyes, and other potential irritants and instead opt for nourishing, soothing ingredients that will hydrate, calm and improve skin.
Try: Naturys De-Sensitive Cream. The perfect antidote for reactive and dehydrated skin prone to redness, this beautifully nourishing cream effectively calms skin while combatting redness. Copper Tripeptides also help promote collagen and elastin production, firming the skin and reducing fine lines while increasing oxygen supply for more supple skin.
How to Use: Apply the moisturiser to your face and neck, gently massaging it in until fully absorbed.
Step 4: Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine. But sadly sensitive skin is particularly vulnerable to sun damage so sunscreen is a must. Sensitive skin needs broad-spectrum protection without harsh chemicals. A mineral-based sunscreen is less likely to irritate and provides effective protection. Look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Try: Hubislab Post Rays UV Protect Sun Block SPF 50+++. Not only is it formulated with both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide so perfect for sensitive and ageing skin since zero irritation, it’s also rich in hydrolyzed Collagen and peptides keeping skin nourished, soft and supple! Its invisible matte formula also applies smoothly and stays on all day long!
How to Use: Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your face and neck every morning, even on cloudy days.
Step 5: Weekly Treatment – Exfoliator
A weekly treatment like an exfoliator can provide essential extra care for sensitive skin. And I know you might be thinking exfoliating sounds counterintuitive, after all you don’t want to exacerbate your already irritated skin, right? The thing is exfoliating is essential for everyone, no matter your skin type. Why? Because it removes dulling dead skin cells, prevents clogged pores and encourages cell turnover, you just have to be careful what sort of exfoliator you use!
Try: Naturys Sensitive Enzymatic Peeling Cream. Formulated for all skin types including those suffering with common skin sensitivities, this exfoliant and regenerating cream gently removes dead cells and unclogs the pores without causing any irritation. As you work the cream into your skin, the pineapple and papaya enzymes, combined with AHAs and rice microgranules, gently but deeply exfoliate skin eliminating impurities, blackheads, dead cells, sebum and toxins. Your complexion after? Softer, smoother, calmer and brighter!
How to Use: Apply the peel 1-2 times a week onto the face and delicately massage. Leave on for 5-7 minutes and rinse with warm water. Avoid the eye contours.
Additional tips for sensitive skin
Patch Test New Products: Always test new products on a small area of your skin before applying them to your entire face to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.
Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Steer clear of products with alcohol, fragrances, and harsh exfoliants. Look for labels that indicate "hypoallergenic" and "non-comedogenic."
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet: Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help support your skin's health. Remember taking care of sensitive skin doesn’t have to be daunting. By following this ultimate skincare routine and using gentle, effective products, you can reduce irritation, strengthen your skin barrier, and achieve a calm, radiant complexion. Remember consistency and patience are key!