 |
Sensitive Skin Care
The first step in good skin care is to recognize whether you have a sensitive skin type. This is likely to be delicate, frequently allergic and prone to broken capillaries. It will be sensitive to heat and cold, and irritated by detergents, cosmetics and alcohol. Things to avoidIf you do have sensitive skin, what you don't do can be just as important as what you do. Be careful not to expose your skin to potential irritants. Use cosmetics with no more than ten ingredients, as the more ingredients a product contains, the higher the chances are that you will experience a bad reaction to one of them. Avoid using nail polishes, as these products contain very harsh chemicals, and can transfer to face and hands. Never use astringents, exfoliants or other harsh, alcohol-based products. Makeup for sensitive skin It is best to choose powder cosmetics, as these contain fewer preservatives and irritating ingredients. If you must use liquid foundation, pick one with a silicone base, as this will be less likely to upset your skin. Regularly throw away old cosmetics, and wash your makeup brushes to remove dirt that could potentially cause skin to flare up. Cleansing and moisturising Wash your face no more than twice a day, and use a PH balanced cleanser. More frequent washing, and the use of harsher products, can strip skin of its protective oils and allow irritants to penetrate the skin's surface. Lifestyle changes Keep alcohol consumption to a minimum, and avoid caffeine and spicy foods. Eat plenty of nuts, grains and vegetables, and keep away from foods containing saturated fats. Finally, one of the most important things to remember for sensitive skin care is to drink plenty of water, as this will remove potentially irritating toxins. |