Could your sensitive skin be caused by your environment?

If you're suffering from redness, discomfort, and dryness associated with sensitive skin, your environment may be to blame. Studies show that environmental triggers (yes, even the air we breathe) can actually sensitize our skin. Sensitized skin from the environment is different than genetic sensitivity or innate sensitive skin.

What do we mean by "environment"? Think pollution, humidity, and sudden temperature changes in climate - e.g. from cold, dry winds outdoors to dry heat indoors.

Sensitised skin explained

When your skin is sensitized, its outer protective layer lets irritants, microbes, and allergens through, causing adverse reactions like flushing and allergies. Air pollution particles float in big cities, rural areas, and even in homes. They are small enough to penetrate the skin and can accelerate skin sensitivity and irritation.

Does your environment sensitize your skin?

Causer #1: Pollution

Air pollution contains microscopic contaminants called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that contribute to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or "free radicals." These strip the skin of barrier lipids that help retain moisture and keep out dirt and other impurities. A disrupted skin barrier can lead to increased skin sensitivity, discomfort, and even premature signs of aging.

Scoundrel #2: Humidity

When skin is exposed to low humidity, that moisture evaporates quickly, leading to dryness, irritation and peeling.

High humidity can also affect the skin. The pores of the skin absorb moisture, which is usually a good thing. However, high humidity can lead to excessive sweat and oil production, clogging the pores with toxins. Plus, high humidity promotes the growth of bacteria and mold, which can lead to skin irritation, redness, and even breakouts.

To make matters worse, humidity can also cause the body to sweat more, which further dries out the skin.

Scoundrel #3: Temperature.

Colder weather, central heating in your home, as well as hot weather and air conditioning can all strip moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling dry, irritated and sensitive. Bitterly cold winds can also draw moisture from unprotected skin. During the winter months, your skin can feel rough, red, tight, cracked or flaky. Ouch!

The heat can also cause skin sensitivities like a heat rash, which occurs when sweat ducts become blocked. The moisture gets trapped under the skin and can lead to a rash in the form of blisters or bumps!

The good news is that the skin - when healthy - filters what's good and what's bad pretty efficiently on its own. And since harsh environmental elements like pollution or extreme weather can't always be avoided, here's how to keep your skin calm, strong and healthy.

The solution? Find strength in sensitivity

Our UltraCalming™ line relieves dehydration and discomfort-so you no longer have to hide behind sensitive skin. Each UltraCalming™ product is also formulated without lanolin, SD alcohol, mineral oil, artificial fragrance or dyes that can aggravate sensitive skin.