How To Tell If Your Skin Is Sensitive Or Not

If you think you have sensitive skin, you aren't alone. In fact, according to Los Angeles dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu in an interview with Refinery29, 70 percent of people think they have sensitive skin. That's over two-thirds of the population. However, all of them probably don't have sensitive skin in actuality. In fact, many may be causing their own issues.

When it comes to determining if you have sensitive skin or not, it's all about taking a look at your own personal routine. Look beyond just your skincare regimen, and pay attention to the other items that may come in contact with your skin. For instance, is your laundry detergent filled with fragrances? Are your haircare products mainly alcohol-based? If so, then these products could be contributing to the sensitivity of your skin. It might sound crazy, but almost everything that comes into contact with your skin effects it in some way. Make sure that you're giving your skin as much TLC as you can by using only gentle, hydrating products to keep your skin's moisture barrier in balance.

To test to see if your skin is allergic to a certain product, WebMD recommended dabbing the product on your forearm, and leaving it for 24 hours. If the spot is reddened, itchy, or even blistered, then you're skin is sensitive or even allergic to that product. Wondering how else you can tell? Here are 11 signs that you may just have sensitive skin.

1. You Easily Break Out In Rashes

According to WebMD, the definition of sensitive skin is those who find themselves easily breaking out into rashes due to various consumer products or weather conditions. If you find that this is the case, you may just have sensitive skin.

2. Your Skin Doesn't Handle Fragrances Well

According to PaulasChoice.com, products with fragrance don't react well with sensitive skin. The fragrance can simply be too powerful, and irritate delicate skin. In order to avoid any flare-ups, be sure to stick to products that are fragrance-free.

3. Products Make Your Face Sting Or Look Red

A tell-tale sign of skin sensitivity is when products often cause your face to redden or even sting. "You know you have sensitive skin if the majority products you place on your skin cause stinging or redness," says Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, co-director of the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery in an interview with Allure.

4. If You Have Allergies

According to Glamour, there is a correlation between having allergies and sensitive skin. Be sure to check with your doctor to see if any of your particular allergies could be your skin's issues.

5. You Haven't Switched Up Your Beauty Routine In Ages & Your Face Is Still Irritated

For those with sensitive skin, sticking to tried-and-true products is a must. However, what if those products are still causing irritation? If you're finding that your skin is still red or dry after sticking to the same routine, Glamour suggested consulting with your dermatologist to see what other steps you can take to healing your skin.

6. Your Skin Is Often Flaky

Flaky skin is a tell-tale sign that there is something off with the moisture barrier of your skin. While the excess shedding could be due to the overuse of chemical exfoliants, it could also be due to severe lack of moisture. Everyday Health suggested balancing your skin by using a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid.

7. Your Skin Feels Itchy

Itch skin is often a symptom of severely dry skin, according to Everyday Health. Restore hydration to your skin by using more gentle and hydrating skincare to replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier.

8. You're Always Flushed

If you find that is skin is constantly flushed, it may be a sign of rosacea. This sensitive skin issue is categorized by skin that reddens due to the slightest agitation, and is often accompanied by small bumps, according to Prevention.

When it comes down to it, always chat with your skin care professional rather than self-diagnosing. It's the easiest way to ensure that you get the proper treatment for your skin.

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