Let’s Go Back To Basics With Skin Care

It’s probably been a while since we’ve had a post about skin care – if ever. While our blog has talked about many areas of health, this is one which we’ve notably neglected – until today! This short post will be about how to minimise damage to your skin. A lot of these are just reminders of us to go back to basics – something which we often neglect, if we’re honest.

It is no surprise that people with sensitive skin tend to suffer from break outs after using certain products or after having sudden prolonged sun exposure. While this is true, it is more plausible that the culprits behind the blotchy skin and zits are a combination of using inappropriate products for one’s skin type and bad skin habits.

So, how can you determine whether your skin is more sensitive than others? Let me try to put down a definition of sensitive skin without using too much scientific jargon. Generally, I would describe sensitive skin as being thin with visible broken capillaries under the skin’s surface, as well as also having fine pores.

What are the effects of having sensitive skin? Well, more pronounced changes even to mild exposure such as temperature changes. It is easy for sensitive skin to break out in rashes when exposed to “unnatural” substances on the skin, including skin care products that are less likely or suitable. Tough gig it is.

Of course, no one except a dermatologist can give you certain and absolute advice. That being said, if you have sensitive skin, you’d do well to limit the use of skin care products, especially because caring for sensitive skin can be hard. Think of it this way – simplicity is king! If you keep your routine simple, you avoid overloading it with too many chemicals. Some tips include:

One: Keep Hydrated

I’m not just talking about drinking water, which you should anyway! I’m talking about applying moisturiser often. Personally, since I don’t have sensitive skin, I only use the basics. My female friends are more particular, and would use a hypoallergenic variety.

Two: Limit Your Time In The Sun

Yes, this one pains me a little bit to mention, since I’m living in the great sunny country of Australia. Like it or not, it’s a fact that the sun can hurt your skin. In Australia, the most popular campaign for avoiding sunburn is slip, slop, slap. Basically it encourages us to wear a hat, cover up, and use strong sunscreen.

Three: Be Wary Of What You Eat

That’s right! I’m not saying this because I’m a health blogger and want people to have a healthy diet anyway. Ps, let this be a reminder to you to grab a copy of the Strategic Nutrition Guide. If you have sensitive skin, up your intake of fruits, vegetables, and other water-rich foods. This is because the vitamin, mineral, and water content of these foods hydrate your skin. Also, minimise your intake of spicy food, alcohol and caffeine.

Four: Limit Fragrances

Another hard truth. While we all love fragrances, the fact of the matter is that some of them contain chemicals that can disagree with our skin. The world isn’t fair – get used to it. On a less harsh note, do exercise proper care when trying out a new fragrance.

What do you think? Have you been neglecting some of the basic points discussed above? I know that I have from time to time. My poor excuse is that I’m a guy. Anyways, if you really do suffer from sensitive skin, you might want to consider switching to skin care products that are specially for sensitive skin. This, my friend, can be done only with a thorough skin assessment and consultation with a dermatologist. That being said, please check out the following resources that may help you solve these issues more quickly:

Skin care for Aussies

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