Sensitive skin – causes, signs & the ideal skincare routine

What does “sensitive skin” mean?

Sensitive skin reacts more strongly than average to stimuli: It burns, stings, tightens, or reddens – often without visible inflammation. Unlike clearly defined conditions (e.g., eczema, rosacea), a low stimulus threshold is paramount here: barrier weakness, neuronal hyperreactivity, and environmental and skincare triggers all converge.

Why does skin become sensitive? – The scientific perspective

The stratum corneum acts as a protective barrier. If it is deficient in lipids or structurally impaired, water loss increases, and irritants penetrate more easily. At the same time, the microbiome can become unbalanced. Neurosensory factors also play a role: nerve fibers react more quickly to heat, cold, chemicals, or mechanical stimuli—the skin "feels" more.

Typical triggers

• Formulation: Fragrances, high-proof alcohol, harsh surfactants, excessive acid or retinoid use.
• Environment: cold, wind, UV, dry air, air pollution.
• Lifestyle: stress, lack of sleep, smoking, very spicy or histamine-rich food.
• Over-skincare: too many products, too frequent exfoliation, layering without a system.

How do I recognize sensitive skin?

Subjective symptoms (burning, stinging, tightness) often appear shortly after application of a product. Visible symptoms include redness, fine flaking, and occasionally micro-tears. Frequent "changes" (sometimes greasy and shiny, sometimes rough and dry) indicate an unstable barrier.

The 6-step routine for sensitive skin

1. Minimalist cleansing: mild, sulfate-free cleansers, lukewarm, short.
2. Hydration & Buffering: Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Beta‑Glucan, Aloe – Fragrance-free.
3. Barrier repair: ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids; niacinamide (2–5%) for strengthening.
4. Soothing: Panthenol, Colloidal Oat, Ectoin; for redness, green pigment fluids as an instant optical solution.
5. Protection: UV protection during the day; occlusive finishing cream or fine care oil in the evening.
6. Portfolio clarity: 1 product per category; never introduce more than 4 new assets at the same time.

Active ingredient check – what works, what doesn’t (yet) work?

• Well suited: Niacinamide, panthenol, ceramides, squalane, beta-glucan, ectoin, allantoin, bisabolol-containing extracts.
• With caution: Retinoids (start low, buffer cream), chemical peels (PHA instead of high AHA/BHA), vitamin C derivatives instead of acidic L-ascorbic acid.
• Avoid: fragrances (parfum, essential oils), high-proof alcohol (SD Alcohol denat.), aggressive sulfates.

Microbiome, textiles & everyday life

Gentle washing routines and barrier-rich emollients promote a diverse microbiome. Clothing: soft, breathable, without itchy seams; be careful of friction during exercise. In the office: optimize humidity; blue light exposure can indirectly promote oxidative stress—antioxidants help as a "protective shield."

Luxury without fragrance – sensory intelligence

Luxury skincare doesn't have to smell. Modern, high-end formulations impress with their feel, finish, and clinical efficacy. Velvety-light emulsions, delicate oils, and adaptive textures deliver an elegant experience without irritants—this is NATURFACTOR®'s understanding of uncompromising sensitive care.

Introduction of active ingredients – the “low and slow” plan

1. Only one new active ingredient per 2 weeks.
2. Apply using the “sandwich technique” to create a buffer (hydrator → active ingredient → cream).
3. If irritation occurs, pause for 48–72 hours, intensify barrier care, then return at a lower dose.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Are “hypoallergenic” products automatically safe?

"Hypoallergenic" is not standardized. INCI lists (fragrance-free, low-alcohol) and dermatologically tested, minimalist formulations provide guidance.

Can sensitive skin also be oily?

Yes. "Sensitive" isn't a skin type, but rather a tendency to react. Oily but sensitive skin needs light, non-comedogenic textures without irritants.

When should you see a dermatologist?

If you experience persistent pain, severe burning, massive redness/flaking, or suspected rosacea, eczema, or contact allergy, consult a doctor.

Conclusion

Sensitive skin demands clarity, consistency, and gentle, high-performance care. Barrier-friendly, fragrance-free formulations, consistent UV protection, and smart ingredient timing significantly reduce irritation—without sacrificing a luxurious skincare experience.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus – Sensitive skin overview https://medlineplus.gov/skinsensitivities.html
2. DermNet NZ – Sensitive skin https://dermnetnz.org/topics/sensitive-skin
3. Cochrane Skin – Emollients and moisturizers for eczema/sensitive skin (overview) https://www.cochrane.org/skin
4. European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology (EADV) – Patient info https://eadv.org/patient-corner/
5. Harvard Health – Skin care basics for sensitive skin https://www.health.harvard.edu