Sensitive Skin: Do’s and Don’ts for Proper Care

Sensitive skin requires special attention because it tends to react easily to certain substances, making it more prone to irritation.

Signs of sensitive skin may include redness, burning, itching, or stinging sensations.

Some people are naturally born with more sensitive skin, which can react when exposed to allergens or irritants such as soap, astringents, fragrances, or cold weather.

These symptoms most commonly appear on the face, especially in thinner areas of skin like the armpits, groin, and genital area.

Therefore, understanding the right skincare routine for sensitive skin is essential to prevent further irritation.

Skincare Habits to Avoid for Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin should avoid habits that may trigger irritation. In your sensitive skin care routine, be sure to steer clear of the following:

1. Over-cleansing the face

Cleansing is important, but doing it too often can strip away the skin’s natural oils that help keep it hydrated and nourished. Use a gentle, soap-free cleanser twice a day — morning and evening.

2. Skipping sunscreen

Sunscreen is an essential step for sensitive skin. Sun exposure can cause burns, reduce skin elasticity, and accelerate premature aging.

3. Taking hot showers

Hot water can damage the skin’s protective barrier, leaving it dry and easily irritated. To maintain your skin’s natural balance, use lukewarm water, which feels gentler on the skin.

Limit showers to 5–10 minutes and use mild soap to avoid irritation.

4. Frequently touching your face

Hands can carry germs and bacteria that trigger acne and irritation. One of the golden rules for sensitive skin is to avoid touching your face unnecessarily.

5. Sharing makeup tools

Sharing makeup products or tools means sharing oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria — all of which can harm sensitive skin.

Avoid this habit to keep your skin clean and healthy.

6. Over-exfoliating the skin

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but limit it to once or twice a week. Excessive exfoliation can damage the skin barrier and cause redness.

Gentle Care Tips for Sensitive Skin

1. Practice double cleansing with gentle products

Double cleansing helps maintain skin pH balance and strengthen the skin barrier, as long as it’s done with products formulated for sensitive skin.

2. Keep your skin well-hydrated

Well-hydrated skin is better equipped to protect itself from environmental stress, repair damage, and maintain elasticity. Adequate hydration is key to effective sensitive skin care.

3. Use sunscreen daily

Sunscreen is your first line of defense against harmful UV rays. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it as the last step in your morning skincare routine.

With the right habits and suitable products, sensitive skin care can help your skin stay calm, healthy, and radiant every day.

4. Eat nutritious foods

A balanced diet can help you look and feel your best. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Fresh fruits and vegetables can help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging.

Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, and limit your intake of added sugars, processed snacks, and refined carbohydrates.

5. Manage stress

Too much stress can make your skin more sensitive and trigger acne or other skin conditions.

To achieve both healthy skin and a healthy mind, try:

• Getting enough sleep
• Doing light exercise
• Taking regular breaks
• Practicing meditation or yoga
• Spending time on hobbies or with loved ones

References

Australian Skin Clinics. Accessed in 2025. 

Cerave. Accessed in 2025. How To Manage Sensitive Skin in Different Skin Types

Cleveland Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Sensitive Skin. 5 Skincare Habits for Healthier, Brighter Skin

Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Skin care: 5 tips for healthy skin.