How do I manage skin sensitivity?

Managing Skin Sensitivity

To manage skin sensitivity, use gentle pH-neutral cleansers, fragrance-free moisturizers, and avoid known irritants while protecting the skin with appropriate barrier products. 1

Understanding Skin Sensitivity

Skin sensitivity is characterized by:

• Unpleasant sensory perceptions including tightness, stinging, burning, tingling, pain and pruritus 2
• Reactions to stimuli that normally shouldn't provoke such sensations
• No visible skin disease explaining these symptoms
• Significant impact on quality of life

Key Management Strategies

1. Personal Hygiene

• Use gentle, pH-neutral synthetic detergents and non-soap cleansers 1
  • pH is significantly correlated with irritation potential 3
  • Replace regular soaps with mild, pH5 neutral bath and shower formulations
  • Use tepid (not hot) water for bathing
• Pat skin dry with clean, smooth towels rather than rubbing 1
• Wear fine cotton clothes instead of synthetic materials 1

2. Moisturization

• Apply hypoallergenic moisturizing creams, ointments, or emollients daily 1
• Use fragrance-free formulations
• Apply liberally after bathing to lock in moisture
• Avoid greasy creams as they may worsen symptoms due to occlusive properties 1

3. Topical Anti-inflammatory Treatment

• For inflamed areas, use hydrocortisone 1% cream for temporary relief 1, 4
  • Apply no more than 3-4 times daily
  • Use only for short periods (less than 7 days)
  • Avoid use on broken skin or in genital areas without medical supervision 4
• Consider topical calcineurin inhibitors as an alternative, though evidence is mixed 1

4. Environmental Modifications

• Avoid known mechanical and chemical irritants 1:
  • Wool fabrics
  • Acids, bleaches, solvents
  • Individual triggers like excessive heat
• Minimize exposure to extreme temperatures
• Use sunscreen daily (hypoallergenic, SPF30+, with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) 1
• Stay out of direct sun when possible

5. Trigger Identification and Avoidance

• Common triggers include:
  • Cosmetics and skincare products
  • Detergents and cleaning products
  • Environmental factors (cold, heat, dryness, pollution)
  • Certain fabrics
• Keep a diary of exposures and reactions to identify patterns

Special Considerations

For Hand Sensitivity

• Use protective gloves for household tasks 1
  • Rubber or polyvinyl chloride with cotton lining
  • Take gloves off regularly to prevent excessive sweating
  • For occupational exposure, choose gloves based on specific chemicals involved

For Persistent Symptoms

• If symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen despite treatment:
  • Consider patch testing to identify specific allergens 1
  • Consult a dermatologist for further evaluation
  • Consider evaluation for underlying conditions (atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis)

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Using products marketed for "sensitive skin" without checking ingredients
• Applying multiple new products simultaneously
• Overusing topical corticosteroids (can lead to skin atrophy)
• Neglecting to moisturize regularly
• Using water that is too hot for cleansing
• Failing to identify and eliminate specific triggers

By following these guidelines and making appropriate lifestyle modifications, most people with skin sensitivity can achieve significant improvement in symptoms and prevent flares.