IRRITANTS, ALLERGENS AND ADDITIVES
While there is a spectrum of ingredients that cause sensitivity, Dr Moy explains that
artificial fragrances and preservatives are the most common components to avoid as
they can lead to flare-ups that result in skin-related stress. With that in mind, Beeby
explains that synthetic dyes, mineral oils and various sulfates may also need to be
added to your banned list as they too can inhibit and irritate the skin’s barrier. So,
which products and ingredients should you look for? Dr Moy says that while sensitive
skin types often rush to purchase formulations labelled as hypo-allergenic, they don’t
always help–unfortunately, as there is little regulation regarding use of the term, the
majority of these products are not what they claim to be. The same can be said for
“natural” or certified organic skincare buys; while generally considered a smart
choice for sensitivity sufferers, Dr Moy recommends paying close attention to their
specific composition. “The bottom line is that we see as many natural or organic
ingredients causing reactions as chemical ingredients,” he says. For example,
vitamins B, C and E can have adverse effects, and the most commonly found natural
acids–like salicylic or lactic–are know to irritate and strip the skin. Equally as
important as what goes into your skincare, try to avoid switching up your daily
regimen too often, says Endota Spa’s education coordinator, Cara Doncovio:
“With the advice of a skin therapist, you should modify your regimen seasonally
to combat changes in temperature. However, if you change your products too
frequently it can result in overstimulation, and also not allow your skin to adapt
to the products you are currently using.”THE CONCERN: BREAKOUTS
THE ISSUE: “Most skin suffering with acne
or breakouts tends to be sensitive,” says
Beeby. Unfortunately, this means it can be
tricky to care for, as the majority of
anti-acne products available include
ingredients that may inflame sensitive skin.HOW TO TREAT IT: It’s most important
that you don’t over-wash or exfoliate your
skin, and that you try to keep your regimen
simple, says Dr Gupta. Aim to use treatment
products that are gentle and enriched with
antioxidants that work to repair your skin,
and opt for a lightweight moisturiser as
opposed to anything heavy or thick.
Depending on the severity of your breakouts,
it’s also wise to make an appointment with a
dermatologist, who may prescribe medication
as a fast-acting and safe alternative to using
over-the-counter products.STEER CLEAR: While they might leave
your skin feeling like it’s had a thorough
clean, avoid cleansing brushes and toners
unless recommended by a skin specialist—
use of these products can often lead
to increased oil production and
confuse your skin further.LOOK FOR PRODUCTS THAT DON’T
CONTAIN INGREDIENTS SUCH AS
ACIDS, BENZOYL PEROXIDE AND
TOPICAL RETINOIDS; AND AVOID
SOAPS OR CLEANSERS CONTAINING
SODIUM LAUREL SULFATE”- CARA DONCOVIO, ENDOTA SPA
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP
LEFT: Skyn Iceland Glacial
Face Wash, $44; at
mecca.com.au. Avène
Cleanance Mat Mattifying
Emulsion, $25.95; avene.
com.au. Murad InstaMatte
Oil-Control Mask, $68;
at sephora.com.auBeauty
134 I n STYLE JUNE 2017