Your Skin

Q: Is my skin sensitive or sensitized?

A: Sensitized skin exhibits the same symptoms and triggers as sensitive skin, so it's hard to distinguish between the two.

Sensitive skin is genetically determined and more commonly seen in those of Northern European ancestry. It could be caused by higher levels of histamine in the body and the lower amount of pigment and thinner epidermal layer which provides a less than optimum natural defense barrier against potentially irritating ingredients.

Sensitized skin can affect anyone of any age, skin condition and any race who has been exposed to environmental assault, chemicals, or product ingredients.  

Return to top

Q: All of a sudden I'm experiencing skin sensitization. Why?

A: Environmental factors, aging and lifestyle choices can all increase skin sensitization.

Cold winds and low temperatures, sun exposure, pollution, and chemical exposure in cleaning and household products can irritate and dry out skin, depriving it of lipids and moisture between cells that keep the protective layer of the skin intact. Without these substances, skin is left unprotected from bacteria and irritant invasion and moisture is drawn out. Dry skin is a precursor to sensitized skin.

As we age, the activity of sebaceous (oil) glands begins to slow, causing the skin’s natural hydrators to decline over the years. Aging may also cause blood flow to skin to decrease, causing a drop in oil production. 

Low-fat, no-fat diets can deprive our bodies of skin-friendly Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) that help protect against water loss within cells and can even help prevent dryness (remember, dryness is a precursor to sensitized skin).

Over-cleansing, over-exfoliation or shaving without a protective medium can also weaken skin’s barrier function, leading to skin sensitization.

If you’ve recently switched skin care or make-up products, take note: they could contain artificial fragrances and colors known to aggravate and increase skin sensitization. Speak with a professional skin therapist to find out if your current regimen is causing your sensitivity.

Return to top

Q: Is it ok to exfoliate sensitive/sensitized skin?

A: Only your professional skin therapist can determine if exfoliation is right for your skin condition through a complete Face Mapping skin analysis.

More than likely, gentle exfoliation will be beneficial to the health of skin.

Return to top

Q: What is rosacea?

A: Rosacea is reddened patches; or small or thick bumps on the skin.

It’s believed that rosacea is caused by an underlying genetic condition involving overactive blood vessels; however, the medical community remains unsure of its cause. Rosacea first shows on skin as reddened areas that come and go when a stimulus is present, but can progress into a permanently red condition with possible pimples and breakouts.

Only a skin care professional can tell you if you have rosacea, or are suffering with skin sensitivity/sensitization.  However, there are steps you can take to help control flare-ups:

  •  Take note of what stimulates flare-ups (extreme weather, stress, strenuous exercise, alcohol, and some foods). 
  •  Staying away from products with artificial fragrances or colors. 
  •  Wearing sunscreen anytime skin is exposed to daylight. 
  •  Keep alcohol intake to a minimum. 
  •  Don’t over-cleanse or excessively scrub skin.

Return to top