Body Products and Makeup for Sensitive Skin

As science advances, so too are the products we use on our body. But not all of these produce the desired effect for everyone. Some people are sensitive to certain body products and makeup.

What is Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin can be caused by allergies, dry skin and other medical causes. You’ll know that you have sensitive skin if you feel burning and itching whenever you apply something on your skin. Some products and other factors also cause bumps, redness or hives.

To determine why if have sensitive skin, you may need skin tests. Others prefer to experiment by not using certain body products and makeup for a time to see if the condition improves.

To treat sensitive skin, you might have to change the products you use.

What are the Common Irritants?

Every skin is different. Unfortunately, besides the skin test, there is no sure method to determine which of these you might be sensitive to. It’s a trial and error process.

The following is a list of common skin irritants.

• Face and body products that contain alcohol
• Scented body products and makeup
• Body scrubs that are too abrasive
• Products that have dyes or tints
• Preservatives that cause allergies
• Parabens, which are also preservatives
• Formaldehyde releasers that cause irritation
• Lanolin and other moisturizers
• Surfactants in cleaning products
• Friction or pressure on the skin
• Body fluids like sweat
• Heat, cold or light that makes contact with skin
• Certain types of fabrics and latex
• Home products like cleaners
• Food allergies and metal allergies

What Products Should I Use?

You must first know what type of skin you have. Body products and makeup that have “hypoallergenic” and “dermatologically-tested” on their labels can sometimes be misleading. You have to read the label to determine the ingredients used. Don’t be fooled by “all-natural/natural” or “organic” terms as well. So-called organic products usually don’t undergo the same testing and regulation like other products. It will also help if you sample the product first if you’re not sure.

Avoid the irritants listed above when you’re checking the labels. Don’t use products that have already expired so you should always check the date, especially on your makeup. The makeup usually starts to spoil as soon as you open it.

Don’t use products that have fragrance and alcohol, too many ingredients, are antibacterial and have alpha-hydroxy acids or retinoids.

For your face, use a silicone-based foundation, black eyeliner and mascara, pencil eyeliners, and face powder with minimal preservatives. Makeup should be oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won’t block your pores. Avoid waterproof makeup and liquid eyeliners.

The trick is to use as few products as possible. It’s good to take care of your skin, but using too many products would cause more harm than good in the long run.