Is your skin too shy and coy? Does it behave like a touch-me-not very often? One wrong move and your skin flares up? If yes, then yeah this article was custom written for you. To protect your skin and to keep it in good health at all times, you have to first make friends with it and to be friends, you must know your skin well! Read on as we get you acquainted with your skin so you two can develop a longstanding friendship. But first—take a moment and think before you deem your skin sensitive. Let’s try and apply a little science to decide if you really do have sensitive skin or it’s something else. Let’s find out, shall we? 

Most people assume that easily irritated skin is sensitive skin. If certain skin care products don’t work for you and certain weather conditions cause your skin to get red and itchy; there is a possibility that you have a medical skin condition like eczema or allergic contact dermatitis. These medical skin conditions can easily be mistaken for sensitive skin. Your dermatologist is the one who can help you differentiate and deal with medical skin conditions but to determine if you have sensitive skin, your skin doc will ask if you experience the following symptoms...
 
 

Do you get a skin reaction easily?

Do you get a skin reaction easily?

If your skin has more than three reactions to multiple skin care products like perfumes, lotions and soaps then you probably have sensitive skin. If your skin has a different reaction to every season then you know it’s not a one-time skin condition but sensitive skin.   
 

 

Do you get sunburnt easily?

Do you get sunburnt easily?

Sensitive skin is susceptible to the UV rays and burns easily. If your skin starts burning and peeling within a few hours of sun exposure, your skin is highly sensitive. Look for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide so it doesn’t make things worse for you. You can also ask your doctor to prescribe a suitable sunscreen for your skin.
 
Is your skin prone to breakouts?
If you often develop breakouts that look like acne and red scars, then you have sensitive skin. A one time breakout is normal but if it happens often then we suggest you opt for a naturale skin care regimen and natural products. Also make sure you alter your diet to suit your skin. For example: avoiding any more than 2 eggs a week can help control acne.   

 

Do you experience a sting or a burning sensation?

Do you experience a sting or a burning sensation?

If your skin stings or burns after applying some skin care products then you definitely have sensitive skin. Skin care products that have alcohol or bleaching agents might prove to be harmful for your skin. And while the sting is temporary it is not to be taken lightly. If you know you have sensitive skin, make sure you go for products that are made with natural ingredients like aloe vera which is a natural, calming agent.  
 
Is your skin prone to redness and itchiness?

If you experience skin redness and itchiness every other season then you probably have sensitive skin. If certain fragrances or perfume based products give you a reaction you have sensitive skin. It could be dry itchy patches, red bumps, rashes, flushing and even dilated blood vessels. Mostly the redness will go away once you rinse with cool water and get rid of the trigger that caused it.
 
But if you have a severe case of dryness and itchiness that persists, then refrain from scratching or you will infect your skin further. Make sure you opt for fragrance free and lightweight but moisturising skin care products that will fight dryness without irritating your skin.