My skin is sensitive

Common Complaint: “My skin is sensitive, feels dry and gets easily irritated”

Understanding Sensitive and Dry Skin

Many individuals experience skin that feels sensitive, dry, and easily irritated. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, making it essential to understand their causes and how to manage them effectively.

Symptoms

Sensitive skin often presents with:

• Redness, with or without swelling
• Itching, stinging, or burning sensations
• Dry, flaky skin that may crack or bleed
• Rashes or hives

If left untreated, sensitive and dry skin can lead to:

• Premature ageing
• Increased risk of skin infections due to cracks and open sores
• Chronic inflammation and discomfort
• Potential exacerbation of underlying skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis.

Common Causes

Sensitive and dry skin can be triggered by:

• Genetic factors
• Environmental factors like extreme temperatures and low humidity
• Harsh soaps and detergents that strip the skin of natural oils
• Allergens such as fragrances and preservatives in skincare products
• Skin conditions like eczema and rosacea, which can exacerbate sensitivity

Treatment at Home

Morning Routine:

1. Cleanser: Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid irritation.
2. Serum: Apply a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
3. Moisturizer: Use a rich, ceramide-based moisturizer to lock in moisture.
4. Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 to protect against UV damage.

Night Routine:

1. Cleanser: Use the same gentle cleanser as in the morning.
2. Treatment: Apply any prescribed topical treatments for specific conditions like eczema.
3. Moisturizer: Use a heavier moisturizer or overnight mask for intense hydration.

Advanced In-Clinic Treatments

For those seeking advanced solutions, medical cosmetic clinics offer a range of treatments:

• Laser Therapy: To reduce redness and improve skin texture.
• Chemical Peels: Gentle peels can help exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin.
• Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production, enhancing barrier function.
• Exosome Therapy: Uses cell-derived vesicles to promote skin regeneration and repair.
• Polynucleotide Injections: Help repair and rejuvenate the skin by enhancing tissue repair.

Example Protocol for Clinic and Home

In-Clinic Treatment:

• Monthly Microneedling with Exosome Infusion: To boost collagen and repair the skin barrier.
• Bi-Monthly Polynucleotide Injections: To enhance skin repair and hydration.

Home Care Regimen:

Morning: Cleanse, apply a hydrating serum, moisturize, and use sunscreen.

Night: Cleanse, apply any prescribed treatments, and use a rich moisturizer or overnight mask.