While you may not be able to change external factors, you can decide what touches your skin. That’s where having a good skincare regimen comes in. Understanding the right frequency of washes, product harshness and the basics of every product – the ingredients, will give your skin a chance to shine and allow you to feel more confident with what you apply regularly.
Frequency – One misconception is that washing your face will clear up any problems, but too much washing can do just as much damage as wearing the wrong products. Like other skin types, washing your face at night with a cleanser is necessary to remove makeup and grime. Where sensitive skin may differ is in the morning. If you have severely sensitive skin use a calming wipe like Aveeno Ultra-Calming Removal Wipes to clear off any overnight buildup or a mild cleanser. Also, try going makeup-free to reduce the frequency and amount of products on your skin.
Products to try: For a mild cleanser try Murad Soothing Gel Cleanser or Cetaphil Face Cleanser.
Harshness - No matter how much you want to try, especially if you have pimples, stay away from products with high concentrates of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide or over-exfoliating your skin. These ingredients can help clear up spots in a jiffy, but they are potent and can cause peeling. Instead, look for products with glycolic acid as an ingredient. Using a Clarisonic Facial Skincare Brush does a nice job of exfoliating your skin, but too much use will cause breakouts and redness. Use the brush once a day with light pressure and then build up to twice a day if you don’t see results.
Products to try: Say goodbye to redness with this highly praised spot treatment – Avene Antirougeurs Fort Relief Concentrate. Try a moisturizer like Peter Thomas Roth Glycolic Acid Moisturizer or Neutrogena Ultra-Gentle Facial Moisturizer.
Ingredients – So you already know to stay away from harsh anti-acne ingredients, but what else should you stay away from? Some preservatives, dyes and detergents can affect the skin negatively. Formaldehyde, Balsam of Peru (a resin that is a mix of scents) and alpha hydroxy have been known to cause contact dermatitis and other issues for those with sensitive skin. One way to protect yourself from such irritants is to try all-natural products and/or those that have been “Allergy-Tested”.
Products to try: Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser, 100% Pure Argan Oil Hydrating Moisturizer (because we all know the powers of argan oil), and if you are looking for a toner, Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner.
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Beauty Tips
Non-FictionEver in need of beauty advice? Just check this advice book out. It has tons of tips for your hair, nails, skin, and makeup. NOTE: If you don't see a tip that you want, tell me in the comments and I will put it in there.
