Sensitive Skin VS Reactive Skin
Do you have sensitive skin or reactive skin? Is there any difference between the two? Yes, the terms sound similar but reactive skin is not always sensitive. Both have their own set of unique characteristics.Sensitive Skin
It is usually a genetic trait that results in a poor skin barrier. It allows the penetrations of allergens and irritants. The nasty reactions include stinging, burning, redness, blushing, or pain. Sensitive skin is difficult to treat and exhausting to live with. It is naturally thin, and blood vessels are found near the surface. Sensitive skin is always dehydrated and prone to breakouts.How to Take care of Sensitive Skin
- Choosing a gentle formula like micellar water to clean your sensitive skin is a good idea. Strong cleaners with ingredients like acid content are a big no for your skin type.
- Sensitive skin has a compromised skin barrier, so it must layer up with a suitable moisturizer. Shea butter, squalene, and glycerin are some good hydrating ingredients to consider.
- Artificial fragrances in skincare products are the worst enemy of sensitive skin. Scents cause stinging and burning. Always choose natural and fragrance-free products to avoid allergic reactions.
Reactive Skin
Reactive skin can develop due to environmental aggressors or skincare ingredients. The prolonged use of unsuitable products triggers skin allergies. You can avoid the reaction by eliminating the irritants from your daily routine and restricting their contact with your skin.How to Take care of Reactive Skin
Skin allergies do not develop on the very first contact with an allergen. Sometimes it takes a long time to develop it. Your immune system becomes sensitized to a particular chemical or ingredient. After developing an allergic reaction, exposure to that component will cause severe skin conditions like swelling, irritation, rash, or damaged skin barrier.
- Avoid chemicals and fragrances in skincare products
- Use gentle cleansers.
- Do not use physical exfoliants to remove dead skin cells. Lactic acid and phytic acid can be good exfoliating agents for reactive skin.
- Moisturizer can help to repair the damaged skin barrier. Use moisturizing creams, lotions, or serums with a high concentration of antioxidants. They will fight the free radicals and keep your skin soft and nourished.