natural beauty
delicate situation
By Sherrie Strausfogel
Harsh chemicals are no way to treat sensitive skin
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s your skin persnickety? Does soap make it feel dry? Does sunscreen irritate it? Does it easily blush or break out? If so, you have sensitive skin, and you need to give it special care. Triggers for sensitive skin include severe weather conditions (excessive heat or cold, strong wind, low or high humidity), pollution, harsh chemicals, irritating topical products, and soaps. Any of these can act as allergens or irritants, often resulting in what dermatologists refer to as atopic dermatitis. To care for sensitive skin, avoid heavily fragranced products; harsh cleansers; toners containing alcohol, glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, and other fruit acids; peels; drying masks; antibacterial ingredients; and PABA or other chemical sunscreens. Instead, choose products that are specifically designed for sensitive skin, including mild cleansers and treatment products and moisturizers that are rich in antioxidants. Select sunscreens that use zinc and titanium oxides as physical sunblocks. Also be aware that “hypoallergenic” doesn’t necessarily mean “safe.” There are no federal standards governing the term, so hypoallergenic can mean whatever a particular company wants it to mean. And while gluten molecules are too large to be absorbed through the skin, some people report reactions to topical products made with the problematic protein. So it may be best to patch test a product that contains gluten or search out gluten-free alternatives if you have a sensitivity to dietary gluten.
take the test If you aren’t sure whether you have sensitive skin, just answer these questions:
Does your skin react adversely to cosmetics containing alcohol, synthetics, fragrances, and artificial colors? Does your skin often get red or blotchy? Does your skin have a low tolerance for heat, cold, wind, or pollution? Do certain types of clothing or fabrics irritate your skin? Is your skin prone to allergic reactions? If you answered yes to at least three, you have sensitive skin and need to treat it gently with appropriate products.
With a zesty scent blend of citrus essential oil and exotic spices, NOURISH SPICED CITRUS BODY WASH is an incredibly gentle formula for sensitive skin. Aloe and shea replenish skin moisture in this chemical free, cruelty free moisturizing cream body wash.
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Soothe and nourish skin both day and night with ACURE SENSITIVE SKIN FACIAL CREAM. Chamomile and probiotics help alleviate redness & inflammation, while argan oil provides moisture.
DR. SPONGE ORIGINAL CLEANSING SPONGE is a unique all-in-one skincare solution for those with sensitive skin. This reusable and biodegradable face and body cleansing sponge is made from konjac plant fiber and provides mild exfoliation, cleansing, & toning.
VERIA ID CALM & COOL BALANCING TONER is created for pitta dosha body types and those with sensitive skin. The soothing mist refreshes skin without stinging. This vegan formula is made with calming boswellia and turmeric and moisturizing aloe.
December 2013
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10/30/13 3:46 PM