Sensitive skin is not only unpleasant, it also appears to be endemic across the entire Australian population. Whether we’re dealing with our naturally harsh environment with things like high UV conditions, heatwaves and flooding or overexposure to pollution and environmental toxins, everyone is bound to experience the discomfort of sensitive skin at some point in their lives. 

According to one study between 60-60% of women and 50-60% of men claim to have sensitive skin. Common symptoms include redness, blotchiness, itching, burning or tightness and overly reactive skin.

Sensitive or sensitised?

The thing is, experts say very few people have truly sensitive skin. Real sensitive skin tends to be particularly thin and delicate, with less pigment and blood vessels that sit closer to the surface of the skin. The fragile skin barrier is easily broken and tends to sting or burn in reaction to products, fragrances and weather conditions. Genetics dictates who ends up with sensitive skin, and these people tend to be of European descent.

Sensitised skin on the other hand is what most of us have, and this is determined by environmental or lifestyle factors. The good news is that unlike hereditary sensitive skin, there are things we can do to mitigate the effects of sensitised skin, which involves avoiding common triggers and embracing better skincare practices. 

Things to avoid when you have sensitised or sensitive skin

As a general rule of thumb, those with sensitive or sensitised skin should avoid products containing fragrance or alcohol. Avoiding hot baths and showers, using adequate sun protection like sunscreen, long sleeve clothing and hats, and harsh, abrasive skincare like scrubs and microdermabrasion is also a good starting point.

Carefully check ingredient formulations on your favourite products – if in doubt go for organic, clean formulations that have high quality but minimal ingredients. Natural skincare tends to be more bioavailable and readily absorbed into the skin. For sensitive skin barriers it’s especially important to ensure ingredient purity – no cheap fillers, synthetic ingredients, pesticides or chemicals that would trigger a reaction. Food grade organic skincare that is safe for the body also happens to be better for the environment too!

An easy skincare routine for sensitive skin

When it comes to sensitive skin, it’s best to keep it simple and pared back. Multi-tasking powerhouses like Renewal Serum, Clarify Serum and Complex CoQ10 Serum are great at tackling multiple skin concerns to get your skin looking radiant and get you out the door faster on a busy day.

  • Hydrating Renewal Serum is made to boost collagen, soothe irritation and redness, hydrate, balance and brighten the complexion. 
  • Use Clarify Serum to clear up acne, pimples and congestion. The super lightweight formula contains powerful anti-inflammatories to deliver clear and calm skin and prevent future outbreaks. 
  • Fight aging skin with Complex CoQ10 Serum, which is loaded with plant-derived active ingredients designed to improve the skin’s elasticity and texture. The nourishing formula acts to erase fine lines and wrinkles as well as boosts the skin’s hydration and plumpness. 

After cleansing, pat several drops of serum onto bare skin and let it soak in followed by Hemp Jelly moisturiser and sunscreen. In the evenings simply repeat the ritual of cleanser-serum-moisturiser and you’re done!

Good skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but what we put on our skin matters – especially if our skin is very sensitive. When it comes to skincare, always keep in mind that “less is more” and you’ll be well on your way towards good skin for life.