A day in the life
of sensitive skin
Skin has a biologically programmed 24-hour or circadian rhythm, which can affect its sensitivity. At night, lower levels of the anti-inflammatory hormone cortisol combined with a surge of pro-itch mediator histamine can accentuate skin’s sensitivity. The result? A rude awakening, to burning, itching and tight-feeling skin.
But that’s only half the story. The truth is, although skin is partly controlled by pre-programmed physiological mechanisms, a woman’s daily routine can be just as important.
You start the day with a long hot shower, before stepping out into the polluted street air. You grab an Americano on the way to your air-conditioned office. At lunch you catch up with a friend while enjoying a spicy dish on a sunny terrace, then it’s time for your hectic afternoon meeting schedule. After work, you drop by the gym for a pulse-raising workout before heading to your favorite bar for a cocktail with the girls… Any of that sound familiar?
The truth is that each and every one of these daily moments – temperature and humidity changes, pollution, caffeine, spicy food, sun, stress, exercise, alcohol – can heighten the discomfort of sensitive skin.
Sensitive skin
through the seasons
Sensitive skin loves stability and hates change. Spring and autumn are its most feared seasons as weather conditions can be unpredictable. With its fragile barrier and hypersensitive nerve endings, skin does not have time to accustom to quickly changing temperatures and humidity levels, which leads to heightened sensitivity.