Your skin’s outermost layer, which is the stratum corneum, contains cells known as a lipid matrix. Lipid is made of natural oil that embedded the skin cells to protect it against internal water loss and external bacteria or allergen. You may experience dehydrated, sensitive skin when the natural moisture barrier of the stratum corneum is disrupted or weakened.

Some common causes of sensitive skin include:

• Sun and UV induced exposure
• Exposure to air pollution
• Climate change
• Extremely cold and hot, harsh weather
• Hormonal fluctuations during your pregnancy or menopause
• Stress and late nights
• Chlorine in swimming pools
• Dehydration

More importantly, it is somehow related to our skin care routine which contains harsh ingredients that could potentially disrupt the skin’s lipid carrier and cause irritation, itchy and redness.

How to differentiate between an allergic reaction and skin sensitivity?

If you have skin allergy symptoms, unintentional contact with the particular allergen will cause reactions such as rashes, itching or a burning sensation. Allergic skin reactions tend to be more severe than sensitized skin, under extreme condition, it may cause swelling, vomiting and difficulty in breathing. If this happens, get medical attention right away.

Common skin allergens include:

• Gold, nickel and other metals
• Parabens and fragrances in skincare and cosmetics
• Antibiotics in first aid creams
• Rubber and latex
• Air and smoke pollution

Can sensitive skin be healed?

After you have identified some of the causes of your skin sensitivity, in addition to the application of the right skincare regime for at least 2-3 months, you could re-establish your skin natural barrier as well as restoring the structural formation of the connective tissues in order to prevent skin irritation by keeping it adequately hydrated, replenished and nourished at all times. When your skin has achieved its optimal equilibrium, it will perform at its best to reveal its natural glow and youthful appearance.

Which products should I use if I have sensitive skin?

Use a simple daily skincare routine that is suitable for your skin type, formulated especially for sensitive skin. Look for products with relatively few ingredients.

Cleanse twice a day with the ultimate Glowing Cleanser which alleviates irritation while brightens your skin, prepare your skin with Lagom Poreless Revitalizing Toner, follow by normalizing and nourishing your skin with Fullnesse HA and Illuminating Serum twice a day and don’t forget to wear a broad-spectrum sunblock with SPF 30 to protect your skin against photo-aging or UV induced skin damage.