How can I avoid irritating sensitive skin?

There are many, many factors in today’s world that can irritate the skin. At Moor Spa we believe that you should really try to use water-based products. After all, we are mostly made-up of water.

However, everyone’s skin is different and I would recommend that you find out as soon as possible what suits you best, and try to use a mild-as-possible cleanser, toner and moisturiser.

Many of us are not born with sensitive skin; however, we end up sensitising our skin by using stripping products that contain high concentrations of ingredients such as alcohol.

Stop over-treating your skin with harsh products! This only inflames the skin and can actually do more harm than good.

As a matter of fact, when the skin is irritated capillaries are dilated and the body’s inflammatory response kicks in, which can be the exact opposite of the desired effect.

I feel consumers should choose to use products with ingredients that have clinical data to support their claims.

Fragranced anything can cause a flare up of skin conditions, as can stress and harsh detergents, or even frequent overwashing with soap and water.

Diet plays a roll as well, alcohol, red wine, (and, in my case, coffee...instant rosacea flare up!)

I avoid using any type of face product that has added fragrance. I have sensitive skin and products with fragrance frequently make me break out.

Expired makeup may cause irritation. Usually the culprit is bacteria that may be festering in your old cosmetics. Keep cosmetics in room temperature, out of direct sunlight to make them last.  As a rule, if the product smells bad or looks like it has separated, it should be discarded.

Waxing can irritate the skin so a post-waxing regimen is essential.

I recommend using a soothing bath gel (Spa Therapy) and pumice gloves on your body every day and particularly those areas. This keeps the skin in good condition and also keeps it exfoliated to reduce in-grown hair and better prep for next waxing service.

• Many of the natural ingredients being used in skincare today are actually irritants, including:
  • Menthol
  • Mint
  • Camphor

Even though these ingredients can have a cooling effect on the skin, that sensation is actually the result of irritation.

• Other irritants to avoid include:
  • Alcohol (like SD or Ethyl Alcohol, not cetyl or cetearyl alcohol, which are actually emollients)
  • Fragrance of any kind (including natural extracts) should also be avoided whenever possible, especially by those with sensitive skin