How to Protect Your Sensitive Skin this Summer

Summer’s here! Ready to get the tan of a lifetime?

Hold on. Not so fast.

You don’t want to get sunburned from a day on the beach. Red, sore skin is a big no-no.

So, before you put on that fancy one-piece you’ve been waiting to try out all year, you might want to ensure that your sensitive skin will be fine.

But how do you know if your skin is more prone to irritation and other issues in the first place? What is sensitive skin even? Read on to find out!

What is Sensitive Skin?

Have you ever experienced a burning, stinging sensation after applying a particular skincare product? Did your skin feel itchy or overly tight? Ordinary folks would associate these symptoms with dry, sensitive skin. But this is not always the case. 

At least, not according to certified dermatologists as quoted on WebMD, a reputable site on health and beauty matters.

To diagnose sensitive skin, a dermatologist would look for skin reactions such as pimples, bumps, or skin erosion. Flushed or dehydrated skin could also make the cut, unfortunately.

Do I have sensitive skin?

Well, this one’s a bummer.

Although patch testing may come in handy in identifying signs of allergies that cause your skin to get overly sensitive, doctors always have their hands full when testing for this particular skin condition.

That’s because, according to Healthline, many factors can contribute to sensitive skin.

The best way to find out if your skin is sensitive is to check with a professional dermatologist and determine what’s really the matter. Something else entirely could be causing your skin condition. 

How To Take Care of Sensitive Skin

Use Sunscreen

Let’s set the record straight for starters – you should wear sunscreen year-round.

And, if you already know your skin is extra sensitive, you should opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens, preferably with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher.

Check the active ingredients too. According to WebMD, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are known to not cause allergic reactions. Unlike most other ingredients, they divert the sun’s ultraviolet rays away instead of soaking them up.

Also, besides using sunscreen, there are a few more tips you could use to care for your skin.

Choose the Right Cleanser

Most people with sensitive skin would agree that their skin doesn’t always respond the same way to different cleansers.

Be that as it may, it’s best to use cleansers that are truly natural, without any harsh chemicals or fragrances that can do more harm than good.  

Apply a Mild Moisturizer

If you wash your face multiple times a day, your skin may get dry and vulnerable to irritation. To counter this, we recommend using good moisturizers that help your skin retain moisture to resist drying and abrasions. 

Key Takeaway

In a nutshell, if you have sensitive skin (or just suspect you do), avoid skincare products with harsh ingredients that are impossible to pronounce. Instead, stick to products with just a few simple ingredients that won’t cause more problems and irritation.

There you have it, folks. Happy Summer!