Sensitive skin is very temperamental and does not like surprises. It reacts to many environmental factors in an aggressive way, it gets red, swollen or itches because of exposure to the sun, wind, too cold or too warm water, alkaline water and many others. It may react easily to many ingredients in cosmetics, and in extreme cases, to even substances around the house; and we are not talking allergies here. Some of the reaction of sensitive skin can be confused with some skin conditions such as: rosacea, eczema, sun damage or couperouse. So you should consult a professional if you think your skin is temperamental.
Though if you have sensitive skin, nothing to worry, because with proper care, you can help your skin to find the right balance and look great for many years. Your skin needs to be clean. Use a very gentle product twice a day and a light toner, if desired, right after. Your toner has to be alcohol-free. You need to use a rich, but water-based moisturizer. Avoid greasy products, lanoline, mineral oil, and other ingredients that may block your pores and cause black heads or pimples. Although your skin is so delicate you may use hydrating masks and a very gentle exfoliant once a week. Avoid steam during facials, and in general, avoid drastic temperature changes. Hot baths, saunas and steams may cause broken capillaries in your skin.
If you get professional facials, always tell your esthetician before starting that you have sensitive skin. She may not be able to extract as much as needed, but it is better than irritating your skin. However, the facial massage is good for you, because it stimulates circulation and relaxes you muscles. Look to have facials in a prestigious day spa or medical spa where hygiene is paramount. If you have extremely sensitive skin, you should visit a dermatologist.
It is important to drink water to keep your system clean and hydrated. You need to take care of your nutrition to help your skin to find the right balance. Try to always eat fresh foods rich in nutrients, like our grandmothers used to. Some supplement of Omega-3 may benefit your skin. You can also consume this oil in flax seeds or salmon; among others. Choose butter over margarine and a little of butter or olive oil is good for you.
The objective of using a mask is to protect, soothe and combat inflammation and irritation on the skin. Sensitive skin needs very refreshing and calming ingredients that will not shock or irritate it. At home you may use Aloe Vera with a couple of drops of blue chamomile essential oil. To calm your skin, use natural products that contain calming ingredients like chamomile, oatmeal, cornflower, milk and licorice.
For example, sensitive skin oatmeal mask. You need a third of a cup of whole, uncooked oatmeal and one egg yolk. In a blender, grind the oatmeal into a fine powder. In a small bowl, blend the powdered oatmeal with the yolk into a paste. Apply mixture to clean skin and leave for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. It’s better to make this mask twice a month.
Another variant of oatmeal mask. Mix the oatmeal and an egg white. Let the mixture dry on face, then gently wash off with a few splashes of warm water. Follow with a steaming washcloth to the face.
The following homemade mask for sensitive skin helps reduce irritation, and it is also great on sun-damaged skin. You need 1 cup natural yogurt, ½ cup oatmeal. Mix the ingredients together. Apply to the skin for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.
Also you can warm a small pot of honey in a double boiler then apply it to your face. To be sure the honey is not too hot it’s advisable to test it on your hand first. Leave the mask on your face for 15 minutes. Afterwards rinse with warm, then cool water.
This sensitive skin recipe leaves your skin gently scented and feeling like silk. Take 1 tablespoon rose clay, 1-2 teaspoons avocado oil, 1 drop rose oil and 1 drop Roman chamomile oil. Mix ingredients. Use water, if necessary, to make a paste. Use a little more clay if too runny. Massage on face; rinse off.
About Author
Carole is the author of some web-blogs in Health category. You can find more interesting and useful at Beautiful Skin Blog and Ideal Weight Blog.
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