Redness and sensitivity

Definition

Redness is a common skin concern characterized by the appearance of a reddish hue on the skin.

Sensitivity refers to the skin's heightened reaction to various external factors, often resulting in discomfort or irritation.

Both redness and sensitivity can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and can affect any part of the body.

What are the main signs and symptoms of Redness and sensitivity?

Clinically diagnosed

When it comes to diagnosing redness and sensitivity of the skin, it is important to understand the underlying causes and the individual's medical history. However, there are a few general guidelines that can help in the clinical diagnosis:

• Medical History: The first step is to gather information about the individual's medical history, including any known allergies, previous skin conditions, or exposure to irritants or allergens.
• Physical Examination: The skin will be visually examined to assess the extent of redness and sensitivity. The healthcare professional will look for signs of inflammation, such as erythema (reddening of the skin), scaling, or lesions.
• Trigger Identification: Identifying potential triggers or irritants that worsen the redness and sensitivity is crucial. This may involve discussing the individual's daily routine, skincare products used, exposure to environmental factors, and any recent changes in lifestyle.
• Patch Testing: In some cases, patch testing may be performed to determine if there are any specific allergens causing the redness and sensitivity. This involves applying small amounts of potential allergens to the skin and observing the reaction.
• Medical Tests: Additional medical tests, such as blood tests or a skin biopsy, may be ordered to rule out underlying medical conditions or to confirm the diagnosis.

It is important to note that the diagnosis of redness and sensitivity can vary depending on the individual and their specific symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment options

For medical treatments of redness and sensitivity, there are a few options:

• Topical corticosteroids: These can help reduce inflammation and redness. However, prolonged use should be avoided.
• Antihistamines: If the redness and sensitivity are caused by an allergic reaction, antihistamines can be effective in reducing symptoms.
• Immunosuppressant creams: These may be prescribed for severe cases of redness and sensitivity, but they should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
• Laser therapy: Certain types of laser treatments can target blood vessels and reduce redness. This should be performed by a qualified dermatologist.

As for skincare products, it's important to choose gentle and soothing options:

• Mild cleansers: Look for cleansers specifically formulated for sensitive skin that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
• Moisturizers: Opt for hydrating moisturizers that contain ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera.
• Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial. Use a mineral-based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Products with calming ingredients: Look for products with ingredients like chamomile, green tea extract, and niacinamide, which can help soothe and reduce redness.
• Avoid irritants: Stay away from skincare products containing fragrances, alcohol, and harsh chemicals.

Beauty procedures

When treating redness and sensitivity, there are a few beauty procedures that can be effective:

• Laser therapy: This procedure uses laser technology to target and reduce redness on the skin. It can help to improve overall skin tone and texture.
• Chemical peels: Peels containing ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid can gently exfoliate the skin, reduce inflammation, and improve redness and sensitivity.
• Microdermabrasion: This procedure involves exfoliating the outer layer of skin with a diamond-tipped wand or crystals, helping to improve skin texture, tone, and reducing redness.
• LED light therapy: Certain wavelengths of light can help calm and soothe the skin, reducing redness and sensitivity.
• Cooling masks or compresses: Applying cooling treatments like cold masks or compresses can help to calm inflamed skin and reduce redness.

It's important to consult with a skincare professional to determine the most suitable procedure for your specific skin condition and concerns.

Diet

Diet can have a significant impact on redness and sensitivity in the skin. Certain foods and beverages can trigger inflammation, dilated blood vessels, and heightened sensitivity, leading to increased redness and irritation in the skin.

To minimize redness and sensitivity, it is advisable to:

• Avoid or limit spicy foods, as they can cause flushing and dilation of blood vessels.
• Reduce consumption of alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate the skin and worsen redness.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to maintain skin moisture and overall skin health.
• Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, such as leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, and turmeric.
• Avoid processed foods high in sugar, as they can cause inflammation in the body and contribute to skin redness.
• Consider any food sensitivities or allergies you might have and try to eliminate or reduce consumption of those trigger foods.

It's important to remember that everyone's skin is different, so it may be helpful to consult with a dermatologist or nutritionist to tailor your diet to address your specific concerns.

Exercise

Regular exercise can have both positive and negative effects on redness and sensitivity of the skin.

Positive effects of exercise:

• Improved circulation: Exercise increases blood flow and oxygenation to the skin, which can promote a healthy complexion and reduce redness.
• Stress reduction: Exercise helps to reduce stress levels, which can decrease skin sensitivity and inflammation.
• Enhanced immune response: Physical activity can strengthen the immune system, leading to reduced redness and sensitivity caused by skin conditions such as acne or rosacea.

Negative effects of exercise:

• Increased heat and sweating: Intense exercise can trigger sweating and raise body temperature, which may exacerbate redness and sensitivity in individuals with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions.
• Friction and irritation: Certain exercise activities that involve rubbing or friction, such as running or cycling, can irritate the skin and aggravate redness and sensitivity.

To minimize the negative effects and maximize the positive effects of exercise on redness and sensitivity, it is important to take the following precautions:

• Choose gentle exercises: Opt for low-impact exercises such as swimming or yoga, which are less likely to cause friction and irritation.
• Protect your skin: Apply a suitable sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF before exercising outdoors to shield your skin from UV damage and reduce redness.
• Keep cool: Exercise in a well-ventilated environment and use a cold towel or ice pack post-workout to cool down your skin and reduce redness.
• Manage sweat: Wipe off sweat gently with a clean towel during exercise to prevent it from sitting on the skin for long periods, as this can lead to irritation.
• Cleanse properly: After exercise, cleanse your skin using a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and oil that may contribute to redness and sensitivity.
• Moisturize: Apply a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate and soothe the skin after exercise.

Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist if you have specific concerns about redness and sensitivity caused by exercise or any other skin issue.

Oral supplements studied for Redness and sensitivity

Several oral supplements have been studied for redness and sensitivity of the skin. Here are some of the most commonly researched ones:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and skin sensitivity.
• Vitamin C: This antioxidant vitamin can help strengthen blood vessels and reduce inflammation, potentially improving redness and sensitivity.
• Vitamin E: Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin E may help protect the skin from oxidative damage and alleviate redness.
• Zinc: This mineral has anti-inflammatory effects and is believed to help stabilize the skin barrier, potentially reducing redness and sensitivity.
• Probiotics: Some studies suggest that certain strains of probiotics can improve skin conditions, including redness and sensitivity, by promoting a healthier skin microbiome.

Although these supplements have shown promise, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a dermatologist before starting any new supplements. They can provide personalized advice and determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Skin sensitivity and skin microbiota: Is there a link?
2. Diagnostic Criteria of Ulcerative Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A Delphi Consensus of International Experts.
3. Quantifying skin sensitivity caused by mechanical insults: A review.
4. Skin sensitivity to capsaicin, perceived stress and burn out among patients with building-related symptoms.
5. Allergy and drug sensitivity of skin.
6. Skin biophysical properties including impaired skin barrier function determine ultraviolet sensitivity.
7. Clinical and Biological Characterization of Skin Pigmentation Diversity and Its Consequences on UV Impact.
8. Skin colour, skin redness and melanin biometric measurements: comparison study between Antera(®) 3D, Mexameter(®) and Colorimeter(®).
9. Defining and validating a Body Skin Discomfort Index (BSDI).
10. Supplementation of flaxseed oil diminishes skin sensitivity and improves skin barrier function and condition.
11. Association between biophysical properties and anxiety in patients with sensitive skin.
12. Questionnaire items to assess skin color and erythemal sensitivity: reliability, validity, and "the dark shift".