How to recognize sensitive skin and take care of it?

Recognizing sensitive skin: what are the signs?

Sensitive skin is characterized by excessive reactivity. Unlike normal skin, it reacts intensely to environmental or cosmetic factors. Here are the main signs that allow you to identify sensitive skin:

• Recurrent redness : Redness, whether temporary or persistent, is common, especially on the cheeks and around the nose. It can be triggered by changes in temperature, sun exposure, or friction from clothing.
• Tightness and discomfort : Sensitive skin is often described as uncomfortable, with a feeling of “tight” skin, especially after cleansing or exposure to hard water.
• Reactions to certain products : Sensitive skin often reacts to unsuitable cosmetics. Tingling, redness or itching may occur after applying products containing irritating ingredients.
• Fragile appearance : Thin and sometimes prone to flaking, sensitive skin has a weakened skin barrier, less able to retain moisture and protect itself from external aggressions.

Why does skin become sensitive? The main causes

Skin can be naturally sensitive or become so due to various internal and external factors.

A weakened skin barrier

Skin sensitivity is often linked to an alteration of the skin barrier. This protective layer, composed of lipids and water, acts as a shield against external aggressions. When it is weakened, irritants penetrate more easily, causing redness, discomfort and reactivity.

Environmental factors

Pollution, climate variations, wind or even prolonged exposure to the sun are all factors that can sensitize the skin. These elements disrupt its natural balance, making the skin more vulnerable and reactive.

Unsuitable or aggressive products

The use of cosmetics containing irritating ingredients (perfumes, alcohol, sulfates) can increase sensitivity. Overly aggressive cleansing or unsuitable products can also alter the skin's hydrolipidic balance.

Internal influences

Stress, an unbalanced diet or hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause) can exacerbate skin sensitivity. These factors affect sebum production and the skin's ability to regenerate, increasing its reactivity.

What care should be given to sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin requires expert care that respects its fragile balance while strengthening its natural defenses. Here are the key principles of a suitable routine and the essential active ingredients to soothe and protect sensitive skin.

Gentle and respectful cleaning

Cleansing is a crucial step for sensitive skin, but it should be done with non-irritating products. Choose:

• Soap-free cleansers: Formulated with a neutral pH, they eliminate impurities without altering the skin barrier.
• Soothing textures: Makeup remover milks or micellar waters enriched with calming agents are ideal for gentle cleansing.

Hydration and soothing

Sensitive skin often suffers from dehydration. Daily moisturizing helps restore its comfort and strengthen its natural barrier.

• Suitable textures: Choose light, non-comedogenic creams during the day, and richer, more nourishing treatments in the evening to promote regeneration.
• Assets to favor:
  • Hyaluronic acid : for deep and long-lasting hydration.
  • Niacinamide : known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it soothes redness and strengthens the skin barrier.
  • Allantoin and Panthenol : These soothing ingredients calm irritation and itching.

Daily sun protection

UV rays are one of the main triggers of skin sensitivity. A mineral sunscreen with a high SPF is essential to protect the skin without overloading it.

Repair and strengthen the skin barrier

To restore an altered skin barrier, integrate treatments enriched with:

• Ceramides : These essential lipids strengthen the structure of the skin barrier and limit water loss.
• Essential fatty acids : They nourish the skin deeply and improve its resilience against aggression.

IOMA's philosophy for sensitive skin

At IOMA Paris, we know that every skin is unique. Thanks to our scientific expertise and skin diagnostic technology, we offer tailor-made care to precisely meet the needs of sensitive skin. Our formulas combine high-performance active ingredients with pleasant textures, to offer comfort and long-lasting effectiveness. Our recommendations for a suitable routine:

• Gentle cleansing with products formulated specifically for sensitive skin.
• Daily hydration enriched with soothing ingredients like niacinamide or aloe vera.
• Suitable sun protection to prevent redness and skin aging.

Recognizing sensitive skin means first and foremost understanding its specific needs and reactions. Whether it is naturally fragile or sensitized by external factors, your skin deserves expert care that respects its balance and strengthens its natural defenses. At IOMA Paris, we are at your side to support you in this process, by offering you tailor-made solutions, adapted to your skin and your lifestyle. Together, let's offer your sensitive skin the comfort and serenity it deserves.