According to research, nearly 71% of adults believe they have sensitive skin. Although it can be difficult to develop a skincare routine for sensitive skin you don’t have to make the effort alone. We have compiled a list of do's and don’ts that can help you on your journey and lead you to a beautiful, glowing complexion.
Do’s
- Consult your doctor to determine if you have sensitive or sensitized skin.
When you begin or revamp your skincare routine, it is recommended that you consult a professional for insights on assumed issues or irritations. Sensitive skin is usually a response to products, which results in flaking, itchiness, and often dryness, especially in melanated skin, while sensitized skin is an allergic reaction to foods, medications, or specific ingredients in a product. A licensed dermatologist can help you make the distinction between the two and recommend products that won’t irritate your skin.
- Introduce new products into your routine slowly.
Trying new skincare products is exciting for most skincare enthusiasts, but those with sensitive skin should proceed with caution when introducing new products into their routine. A great rule to follow is to introduce one product over a complete skin cycle (28 days) and monitor the skin for any reactions. Another important tip is to use new products sparingly until you know how they will affect your skin. Our CLNSR is formulated with Glycolic Acid which can irritate sensitive skin types if used too frequently. We recommend that sensitive skin types use this as a treatment, replacing a regular facial cleanser with the Bronze Glory CLNSR 1-2x per week, to cleanse and exfoliate the skin.
- Research actives for sensitive skin.
Many skincare experts will advise those with sensitive skin to steer clear of most actives. Ingredients like AHA’s and retinol can irritate and should be avoided by sensitive skin types. However, new advances in skincare technology have introduced more gentle versions of actives, such as Vitamin C that are ideal for more delicate skin. Bronze Glory’s Vitamin C SRM is made with Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, an effective form of Vitamin C that is both effective and approved for most sensitive skin types.
Don’ts
- Avoid washing your face with hot water.
When washing the face, avoid using hot water. The warmer temperatures can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing tightness and irritation. It’s best to wash the face with lukewarm water and use gentle, circular motions when applying cleansers or other products. Remember to be gentle. Try to avoid exfoliating brushes or and harsh cleansing tools as well.
- Never skip sunscreen.
Sensitive skin can become irritated when exposed to the sun for extended periods. No matter what your skin type, you should apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin against signs of premature aging and reduce hyperpigmentation. Mineral sunscreen is recommended for sensitive skin types because it has gentle ingredients that provide a physical barrier against harmful rays from the sun.
- Stay away from products with harsh fragrances.
Skincare products that contain fragrances may inflame sensitive skin, causing additional irritation and breakouts. Before adding a new product to your skincare routine, make sure it is free of added fragrances and instead look for products that are unscented or have natural scents like essential oils. Each product in the Bronze Glory collection is formulated without harsh fragrances.
When managing sensitive skin, it is important to use products in moderation, read product labels and be patient. Building an effective skincare routine is a process, and it is important to test products and choose items that work best for you.
