Can sensitive skin be cured? Treatments To Relieve
Sensitive skin is one of the most common skin conditions that many people struggle with. It can be caused by a number of factors, from environmental to genetic.
The goal of sensitive skin treatments is to reduce the symptoms and provide relief for those with this condition. There are a number of ways to do this, including using products that have been created specifically for sensitive skin, or using more general products in different ways.
What Causes Sensitive Skin?
In many cases, having sensitive skin is not cause for concern because it is most likely the result of a minor allergy or underlying skin condition.
Natural Disposition
If a person has sensitive skin and no underlying health condition, their skin may be more easily irritated. Many people become irritated after being exposed to:
- sunlight
- heavy winds
- very cold temperatures
- very hot temperatures
A person with sensitive skin may also be more prone to allergic reactions to skincare products, makeup, or certain types of clothing.
The symptoms of sensitive or reactive skin may appear in numerous ways, including:
- eczema
- hives
- patches of redness
- rashes that may itch, sting, or burn
- itching, stinging or burning without a visible rash
- sunburns
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by skin contact with something. Contact dermatitis is classified into several types.
Irritant contact dermatitis
Irritating contact dermatitis can be caused by soaps, laundry detergents, or even exposure to water. The chemicals in these products cause a non-specific, inflammatory skin reaction. People can also have reactions to jewelry made of metals such as nickel.
The skin may become irritated, red, and swollen. It may become very dry and crack in some cases, and blisters may form. Photoallergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin becomes inflamed after coming into contact with something after being exposed to sunlight, typically a sunscreen lotion.
Allergic contact dermatitis
Allergic dermatitis occurs when an allergic person’s skin comes into contact with something. Eczema and hives can be caused by an allergy, which is an immune reaction. The following are examples of common allergens that can cause skin reactions:
- nickel
- fragrances
- latex or rubber
- dyes and coloring
- chemicals or ingredients in creams or bath and beauty products
- reactions to certain plants, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or stinging nettle
Symptoms may include:
- redness with or without swelling
- rashes or hives
- dry, flaky skin
- blisters or cracked, oozing skin
- dark, leathery patches of skin
If the offending product is removed, symptoms may resolve on their own. Anyone who is having trouble determining which products are causing their symptoms should consult a dermatologist.
Dry Skin
A person with sensitive skin may also have dry skin. As the protective moisture and fat that keep the skin from drying out are lost, the skin becomes more sensitive. Skin dry status may appear more frequently in areas exposed to the elements, such as the hands, face, and arms.
Taking measures to keep moisture in the skin may aid in keeping it from drying out. Daily use of moisturizing lotions and facial creams may help prevent symptoms. African Americans should take extra care to moisturize their skin, as research suggests that their skin is more prone to water loss.
Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that causes dry, itchy patches of skin, though symptoms vary from person to person.
Eczema most commonly affects children, but it can also affect adults. The face, elbows, neck, wrists, ankles, and legs are the most common areas for eczema flare-ups. People will develop itchs and bumps in these areas. This may be more difficult to see on darker skin.
Rosacea
Eczema most commonly affects children, but it can also affect adults. The face, elbows, neck, wrists, ankles, and legs are the most common areas for eczema flare-ups. People will develop itchy and bumpy rashes in these areas. This may be more difficult to see on darker skin.
Can Sensitive Skin Be Cured Forever?
Unfortunately, sensitive skin is a condition that cannot be permanently resolved. It is manageable and treatable with the right products, but it is a chronic condition. Some people have sensitive skin from birth, while others develop it later in life.
A variety of factors contribute to sensitive skin, including genetics, hormones, environment, and lifestyle. It can cause dryness, redness, itching, or stinging. The good news is that there are numerous products on the market that can assist in the management of sensitive skin.
Treatments
Medical Treatment
Doctors may give diagnosis and prescribe a variety of medications depending on the cause of sensitive skin and the accompanying symptoms. They are as follows:
- Steroid creams: Both OTC and prescription-strength steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, may help relieve inflammation and itchiness. They should not be used on the face.
- Analgesic creams: Numbing creams may help reduce itchiness, making the person less likely to scratch or irritate the affected area..
- Antihistamines: Some allergic reactions may be relieved by taking an antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
- Protective sunscreen: A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can help protect sensitive skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays..
Home Remedies And Over-The-Counter Products
Some home remedies may also help treat or prevent sensitive skin symptoms. They include:
Moisturizers
Moisturizers and lotions that are hypoallergenic may help to relieve dry skin without irritating sensitive skin. Depending on the type of sensitivity, some ingredients may be more effective than others.
People with extremely dry skin, for example, may benefit from ingredients such as urea or lactic acid. Others may benefit more from simple oils such as shea butter or coconut oil. Before applying a product to the rest of the affected skin, always test it on a small area first.
Oatmeal
Oats may be especially beneficial to those with sensitive skin. According to research, applying colloidal oatmeal to the skin may help with symptoms like rashes, dry skin, and eczema. Oatmeal works by improving the skin’s barrier rather than just treating the symptoms. Applying a colloidal oatmeal paste to sensitive skin may aid in symptom management.
Other Tips
People with sensitive skin may also be able to minimize symptoms by:
- taking shorter showers and baths (less than ten minutes)
- avoiding using very hot water for bathing and washing the hands
- avoiding harsh fragrances, detergents, or other chemicals that cause itchy skin after use of fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products such as soaps, deodorants, and detergent
- staying away from harsh chemical cleaners
- patting instead of rubbing the body dry
- Apply moisturizer after washing your face and ALWAYS test new products on a small area of skin before applying them to larger areas.
It’s best to keep a journal of the products you’ve used each day to help identify any potential triggers of symptoms on your skin, such as which ingredients/products irritate your skin. If a person discovers a product that they believe is causing a reaction, they should stop using it and take it to their dermatologist for allergy testing and medical treatment.
Foods You Should Eat To Heal Skin Sensitivity
Can sensitive skin be cured with healthy foods? Diet has a significant impact on our dermatology, and a poor diet will not result in healthy skin. Sugar, salt, junk food, and additives such as food coloring are common foods that cause skin irritation and inflammation.
In addition to keeping our skin soft, smooth, hydrated, and irritation-free. A nutritious diet is beneficial to all aspects of our health, including our brain and body. Green vegetables, avocado, nuts, and berries are high in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
When To See A Dermatologist
While remedies can help relieve irritation and other symptoms of sensitive skin, seeing a dermatologist is the best way to determine the cause of skin sensitivity. They can examine the skin for potential allergies or underlying conditions. Knowing what is causing the symptoms makes them easier to treat.
Although it is uncommon, a person can have a severe allergic reaction to skincare products and develop anaphylaxis. A rash could also be a symptom of another, more serious medical condition. People should seek emergency medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- difficulty breathing, wheezing or gasping for breath
- swelling in the face, tongue, or throat
- fever
- rash covering the entire body
- dizziness or fainting
- blisters
- signs of infection in the skin such as pus
- a rash that is painful
Answer Your FAQs About Treating Sensitive Skin
How do I know if I have sensitive skin?
Examine your skin with a dermatologist. That is the most effective way to determine whether you have sensitive skin or whether something else is causing your skin condition.
Should men be concerned about sensitive skin?
Yes. The look of healthy skin is just as important for men as it is for women.
What should I look for in skin care products that will make them less irritating to sensitive skin?
Specific guidelines are lacking. But more “skin-friendly” products contain:
- Only a few ingredients
- Little or no fragrance
If you have sensitive skin, avoid products containing:
- Antibacterial or deodorant ingredients
- Alcohol
- Retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids
What types of cosmetics are less irritating to sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following:
- Make use of face powder, which contains few preservatives and poses little risk of skin irritation.
- To avoid skin irritation, use a silicone-based foundation.
- Waterproof cosmetics must be removed with a special cleanser.
- Black eyeliner and mascara appear to be the least allergenic.
- Use pencil eyeliner and brow fillers instead of liquid eyeliners, which may contain latex and cause an allergic reaction.
- Throw away old cosmetics before they spoil or become contaminated.
Summary
This article explored some of the best treatments and answer for can sensitive skin be cured. If you are struggling with skin sensitivity, these treatments may be able to help. Leave a comment below and let us know which treatment works best for you. We will continue to publish articles on beauty and health topics, so be sure to check back for more information.
