Ultimately, however, it is one of the most common skin types. In fact, some 60-70% of women identify as having sensitive skin1 according to recent surveys. Here, dermatologists break down the telltale signs of sensitive skin plus share some of the best natural remedies to soothe and protect. In fact, the complexities of sensitive skin are so profound that there’s really no scientific consensus2 on its true definition. The one throughline that ties it all together—and that all derms can agree on—is that those with sensitive skin have a compromised skin barrier. These 5 five signs will help you figure out if your skin may fall under this broad umbrella: One way to avoid this is to always perform a patch-test before investing your hope (and money) into a new skin care or cosmetics product. “You never know what your trigger is going to be, so you might have to experiment,” says board-certified and holistic dermatologist Alan Dattner, M.D. If this is the case, you should not forgo cleansing altogether—rather, it’s all about choosing the right type of cleanser. “Avoid alcohol-based astringents and foaming cleansers,” Patel recommends. Additionally, those with sensitive skin should also steer clear of facial scrubs, which, “can create small microtears in the skin, [and thereby] cause more inflammation,” Patel says. Since the skin barrier in sensitive skin types is already compromised on some level, it’s crucial the cleanser you choose doesn’t cause further damage. In other words: You want a wash that rids your skin of dirt, buildup, pollutants, and excess oil without drying it out. Your best bet is to reach for an oil, gel, or cream-based cleanser—ideally one that’s also free of parabens, sulfates, and strong acids, as these are also known triggers for sensitive skin. Additionally, you should find one that supports the barrier with biome-friendly products, fatty acids, lipids, and antioxidants. Though a change in environment or climate may be out of your control, what you can try to control is how your skin will react (using the below natural remedies is a good start). Unfortunately, this can create quite the issues for treating it. Many with acne-prone skin reach for harsh acids, potent actives, and astringent formulas—which is the exact opposite of what sensitive skin needs. If this is your skin type, be sure to help balance the skin with anti-inflammatory topics. For mild flare-ups, however, the following natural remedies may offer some quick relief. For long-term relief, read up on natural remedies for redness and skin inflammation, as well as improving skin barrier function.
