Many people describe their skin as “sensitive” — but what does that really mean?
Sensitive skin syndrome is a recognised condition where the skin reacts with unpleasant sensations such as stinging, burning, itching, or tingling in response to things that normally shouldn’t cause discomfort.

What Can Trigger Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin doesn’t always have one clear cause. In fact, up to 40% of people with sensitive skin have no obvious trigger.
Common factors include:

• Physical: sunlight, heat, cold, or wind
• Chemical: cosmetics, soaps, water, or pollution
• Psychological: stress and emotional strain
• Hormonal: changes during the menstrual cycle in women

Because of this, caring for sensitive skin means protecting it from multiple angles.

How to Care for Sensitive Skin

The goal of skincare for sensitive skin is to:

• Restore the skin’s protective barrier
• Reduce irritation and reactivity
• Use products proven safe for delicate skin

Cleansing

• Choose gentle cleansers that are soap-free, fragrance-free, and with a skin-friendly pH (around 5.5–6.0).
• Avoid aggressive cleansing methods like over-washing, harsh scrubs, or mechanical brushes.
• Thermal water sprays can help soothe and complete the cleansing routine.

Moisturising & Treatment

Dermocosmetic products designed for sensitive skin are best. Keep your routine simple and minimal to reduce risk of reactions. Look for moisturisers that:

• Strengthen and restore the skin barrier
• Hydrate the outer layer of skin
• Soothe irritation, pain, or itch
• Are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic
• Contain fewer than 15 ingredients where possible

Sun Protection & Makeup

• Sunscreens and makeup should also be labelled for sensitive skin.
• The right products protect against UV damage without triggering flare-ups.

Key Qualities of Sensitive Skin Products

Experts recommend choosing products that are:

• Non-irritating and non-allergenic
• Soap-free and alcohol-free
• Mildly acidic in pH
• Minimal ingredients
• Designed to support the skin barrier

In Summary

Sensitive skin care needs to address two key issues: neurogenic inflammation (the nerves that make your skin feel reactive) and barrier weakness (the outer layer that protects you from the environment).

By choosing gentle, minimal, and protective products — and avoiding harsh routines — you can keep your skin calmer, stronger, and healthier.

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👉 If you struggle with sensitive skin, your dermatologist can help you personalise your routine and choose safe, effective products.