Sensitive skin can get irritated from anything, from wind and dry weather to make-up and cosmetic products. Even a simple gesture of touching your face without cleaning your hands before can result in a rash. Often, sensitive skin is also dry so dehydration can aggravate its condition. Some factors, such as polluted air in industrialized areas, cannot be avoided. However, following a correct skincare routine is one of the most important steps in reducing and preventing irritations.
Also, using facial masks regularly can complement the effects of moisturizers and cleaners. Here are some masks for sensitive skin that are affordable, accessible, and easy to prepare.
Yogurt and banana mask
Mash ½ banana (very ripe) and add 1 teaspoon of whole-fat yogurt and 1 of honey. Stir until the mixture becomes a uniform paste.
Bananas and yogurt hydrate the skin into its deep layers, and honey nourishes it.
Glycerin-based mask
A calming mask containing glycerin can reduce the stingy feeling on the face caused by cold weather. Mix 2 teaspoons of honey, 2 teaspoons of glycerin and 2 tablespoons of plain white flour.
Apply on the face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Using chamomile tea as a toner will have a complementary effect.
Olive oil mask
Severely dehydrated skin can exfoliate, especially in the nose, chin, and forehead areas. An olive oil-based mask has hydrating and soothing effects that are very efficient against skin exfoliation.
Mix one tablespoon of olive oil, a few drops of lemon juice, and two tablespoons of plain yogurt. Apply on the face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and apply an aloe vera moisturizer.
Concerning its soothing effects, organic aloe vera juice is even more efficient than a moisturizer thanks to its high degree of purity.
Tips to prevent skin irritation
– Avoid lotions and moisturizers containing alcohol and/or perfume.
– Choose cosmetic products for sensitive skin or baby products that are free of colorants and perfume.
– Use thermal water to wash your face instead of tap water.
– Avoid touching your face with dirty hands.
– When dry the face using a towel, gently pat the skin rather than rub it.
Note: If you have a severe irritation, possibly with red/inflamed/exfoliated skin, you might have a type of dermatitis or another skin condition. In that case, it is best to consult a dermatologist as such a condition may need to be treated using medication and even a special diet.
