As we enter the autumn and winter seasons, many of us experience dry skin. For those with sensitive skin, this can be a major headache. With so many moisturizing products on the market, it can be challenging to find the right one. So, how should people with sensitive skin choose a moisturizer?
In fact, different moisturizers have different ingredients, textures, and corresponding skin types. Regardless of whether a product is cheap or expensive, the moisturizing ingredients primarily fall into three categories:
Occlusives: These primarily form a thin film on the skin, reducing water loss from the skin surface. Humectants: These primarily attract water molecules to stay on the skin surface. Emollients: These primarily replenish the skin’s micro-cracks, making the skin smooth and reducing water loss.
The ratio of water and oil in a moisturizing cream determines its texture. The higher the concentration of oily substances, the closer it is to a cream-like consistency, and the better the moisturizing function. However, if the skin is prone to acne, the more oily the moisturizer, especially those with mineral oil ingredients, the more likely it is to block pores. Although everyone knows that body lotion should not be used on the face, one patient once used body lotion on their face, resulting in full-face acne. Therefore, remember to use moisturizers specifically designed for facial skin.
Most moisturizers or lotions claim to have natural ingredients, suitable for even sensitive skin. But is this really the case? Which ingredients are more likely to cause sensitivity? Pay attention to six types of ingredients: mineral oil/lanolin, vitamins, herbal ingredients, preservatives, fragrances, and sunscreens.
Mineral oil is a by-product extracted from petroleum and has a greater irritating effect on the skin. Lanolin is a common ingredient that has a greater irritant response for sensitive skin. Moreover, many people believe that herbal ingredients cause less sensitivity, but in fact, they are one of the common culprits that cause sensitivity.
Preservatives such as paraben, EDTA, and methyl can also cause allergic reactions. Vitamins A and C can also irritate the skin. Fragrances such as jasmine oil, bergamot oil, and lavender oil can increase the scent of products but should be avoided by people with sensitive skin. Some moisturizers may add chemical sunscreen ingredients to increase their selling points, but this can increase the burden on the skin and should be avoided.
Different people have different reactions to different products. If redness, marks, swelling, or rashes appear after using a product, it may be an allergic reaction to an ingredient in that product. If you are unsure about a product, it is best to consult your doctor.
Sensitive skin should avoid products containing the following sensitizing ingredients: ⦁ Acetone ⦁ Alcohol ⦁ Propylene glycol ⦁ Alpha-hydroxy acids ⦁ Sodium lauryl sulfate ⦁ Benzalkonium chloride ⦁ Formaldehyde releasers ⦁ Menthol ⦁ Benzyl alcohol ⦁ Camphor ⦁ Urea – irritating only in higher concentrations ⦁ Pyrriolidonic carboxylic acid ⦁ Lanolin ⦁ Fragrances