Sensitive skin can put a total damper on your beauty routine.
No, thanks!).
But just because youre sensitive doesnt mean your skin cant flourish.
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You just have to know which ingredients are most likely to cause trouble.
SELF talked to two dermatologists to create a comprehensive list of no-no ingredients you may want to avoid.
Sensitive skin also has a harder time maintaining moisture, so you might be prone to dryness and itchiness.
And if your face looks flushed in both summer and winter, that’s another tipoff.
And dermatologistWhitney Bowe, M.D.emphasizes the importance of avoiding self-diagnosis.
People venture to lather on numerous ingredients to treat multiple issues, she explains.
Yes, that means while youre trying to fix the problem, you could actually be making it worse.
Here, a list of ingredients dermatologists warn their patients with sensitive skin to avoid.
Fragrance:Scent is the first thing dermatologists cut out when youve got sensitive skin.
The good news is there are tons of products that are marketed to those with sensitive skin.
But you still have to be careful.
Theres a slight difference between fragrance free and unscentedand fragrance free is the better option.
Fragrance free usually means that no extra fragrances were added to the product.
Unfortunately, those with sensitive skin may be sensitive to that ingredient.
The result is arashat the hairline, nape of the neck, and around the ears.
PPD is most often found in darker dyes and comes as a two-step processthe PPD dye and the developer.
For both in-salon and at-home hair color kits, there are options formulated without PPD.
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Here’s What you should probably Know About Cosmetic Allergies
3.
Preservatives:Preservatives are necessary for keeping any product that contains water fresh and stable, explains Dr. Schlessinger.
Parabens are more likely to irritate those who already have skin issues likeeczema,psoriasis, andcontact dermatitis.
Products that are considered ‘natural’ often contain ingredients that may be unusual or untested, says Dr. Schlessinger.
I also see quite a few reactions to organic products.
After all, poison ivy is organic.
Plant-based ingredients like citrus fruit extracts and mint can cause irritation if its a primary ingredient.
[These are] cleansing agents that help create a rich, foaming lather, explains Dr. Schlessinger.
They can prove too harsh for some, drying out skin and hair and contributing to rashes and blemishes.
Its important to avoid using products that are too strong.
I recommend chemical exfoliation with amino fruit acids, says Dr. Schlessinger.
AFAs are derived from the sugar cane bud rather than the stalk and provide better exfoliation with minimal irritation.
He recommends LovelySkin Luxe Exfoliating Gel Mild 11% ($60,lovelyskin.com) for his patients.
Oats are a natural exfoliator and are known for their soothing properties, she says.
[Just mix] oats, honey, and banana for an at-home gentle face scrub.
People with sensitive skin usually can’t tolerate exfoliating more than twice a week, says Dr. Bowe.
You want to apply a small amount to your neck or wrist first.
Then, wait 24 hours to see if there is a reaction.
If there isnt any redness or itching, its OK to use on your face or body.
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