Sensitive Skin: What’s Really Going On and How to Care for It
If your skin seems to react to just about everything—certain products, weather changes, even just washing your face—you’re not imagining things. Sensitive skin is more common than you might think, especially as we get older, and it often takes a little extra care to keep it balanced and happy.
At Kelly Hood MD Dermatology, we see a lot of patients struggling with redness, irritation, and unpredictable flare-ups. The good news? There are ways to calm things down and keep your skin feeling comfortable, strong, and resilient.
What Is Sensitive Skin, and Why Does It Happen?
Sensitive skin isn’t so much a condition as it is a reaction. Your skin barrier—the protective layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out—can become weakened or overreactive, leading to:
Redness and inflammation
Tingling or burning sensations after applying products
Dryness and flakiness
Breakouts or rashes from everyday skincare
Skin that feels tight or uncomfortable
Several things can trigger sensitivity, but the most common culprits include:
✔ A weakened skin barrier – Often due to aging, over-exfoliation, or harsh skincare products.
✔ Sun exposure – UV damage can make skin more prone to irritation.
✔ Weather changes – Cold, dry air in winter and heat and humidity in summer can throw your skin off balance.
✔ Fragrances, dyes, and preservatives – Found in many skincare and beauty products, these can be irritating for some people.
✔ Underlying skin conditions – Rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis can all cause heightened sensitivity.
If any of this sounds familiar, your skin might need a little extra TLC.
How to Care for Sensitive Skin
When your skin is easily irritated, the best approach is keeping things simple and gentle. Here’s where to start:
1️⃣ Use a Gentle Cleanser
Harsh soaps and foaming cleansers can strip away your skin’s natural oils, making things worse. Instead, look for a fragrance-free, hydrating cleanser—something that removes dirt and makeup without drying you out.
2️⃣ Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Sensitive skin needs a strong barrier to stay protected. A rich but non-greasy moisturizer with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane can help lock in hydration and strengthen the skin over time.
3️⃣ Choose the Right Ingredients
Not all skincare is created equal—some ingredients are known for being soothing and supportive, while others are common irritants.
✔ Good for Sensitive Skin:
Niacinamide (calms redness)
Aloe vera (soothing)
Green tea extract (anti-inflammatory)
Oat extract (helps repair the skin barrier)
✖ Can Be Irritating:
Alcohol-based toners
Essential oils & synthetic fragrances
Retinol (for some people, unless introduced slowly)
Harsh exfoliants like scrubs or strong acids
4️⃣ Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable
Sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers for sensitive skin, even if you don’t burn easily. A mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is your best bet—it protects your skin without causing irritation like some chemical sunscreens can.
5️⃣ Be Mindful of Temperature Changes
Hot showers, spicy foods, and even that extra glass of wine can sometimes cause flushing and irritation in sensitive skin. If you notice your skin reacting, try making small adjustments—cooler water, less spice, and maybe switching to a lighter red wine (or just sipping slower!).
When to See a Dermatologist
If your skin is persistently red, reactive, or uncomfortable, it might be time for a little extra help. At Kelly Hood MD Dermatology, we work with patients to find what’s really triggering their sensitivity and develop a plan that works for their unique skin.
Depending on your needs, that might include:
Prescription-strength calming treatments
Laser therapy for redness and rosacea
Hydrating facials designed for sensitive skin
A customized, dermatologist-approved skincare plan
A Calmer, Happier Complexion Starts Here
If your skin is feeling easily irritated, reactive, or just not as comfortable as it used to be, we’re here to help. With the right care, sensitive skin can be resilient, healthy, and even radiant.
Schedule Your Consultation Today.
Your skin deserves to feel as good as it looks. Let’s get you there.
