Why do we have sensitive skin?

Several factors can be responsible for skin hypersensitivity, among which include:

• Heredity.

  Some individuals have had sensitive skin since birth. Genetics can be responsible for this condition, with fair-skinned individuals naturally inheriting a more reactive skin type. Those possessing this phototype generally have a lower quantity of skin pigments and a thinner epidermis. It is also possible that a mutation on the gene coding for the filaggrin protein could be responsible for certain skin hypersensitivities.

• Hormonal fluctuations.

  Skin sensitivity can also develop over time. Stress can sometimes be responsible. This leads to an increase in the level of cortisol in the blood. This hormone contributes, among other things, to the breakdown of collagen, a molecule that makes up the extracellular matrix and helps maintain the structure of the skin barrier.

• The dietary regime.

  Diet can also play a role in skin comfort. Certain foods, known as stimulants, such as coffee and chilli, can slightly increase body temperature. This increase promotes the dilation of blood vessels, which tends to be more noticeable on sensitive skin. Similarly, a high consumption of saturated fats has pro-inflammatory effects, and can exacerbate skin sensitivity.

• The intake of medication.

  Corticosteroids , whether taken orally or used topically, can induce a skin rash resembling acne. Certain anti-inflammatory drugs can also cause photosensitisation of the skin. That's why it is recommended for sensitive skin to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen before each exposure.

• Sudden variations in temperature.

  Due to the dry cold, the secretion of sebum decreases, which leads toskin dehydration. The hydrolipidic film that protects the skin becomes thinner and as a result, the skin is less protected. Simultaneously, the desquamation, or the process of skin renewal, is disrupted, which can lead to the appearance of redness and irritations on the skin.

• The use of unsuitable skincare products.

  Some active ingredients, such as essential oils, sulfates, and fragrances, are poorly tolerated by sensitive skin and can cause undesirable, even painful reactions. Indeed, essential oils contain several allergens such as linalool and limonene. Sulfates, often found in shampoos or shower gels, are likely to damage the hydrolipidic barrier by clinging to the lipids of the stratum corneum. Finally, fragrances contain several alcohols, potentially irritating or allergenic.

  The use of grain scrubs, or mechanical ones, which require significant rubbing, can also exacerbate skin sensitivity. When one has sensitive skin, it is better to turn to enzymatic or chemical scrubs, which are gentler.

• Hard water.

  After a shower with hard water, feelings of skin tightness can occur, accompanied by various issues such as irritations, itching, and even the appearance of red patches. The explanation is as follows: the calcium and magnesium ions, which make up hard water, form microcrystals on the skin, causing the prickling sensations.