Super sensitive skin saviours

Sensitive skin is a common condition and it’s on the rise. Studies indicate that
it affects 50 per cent of females and 40 per cent of men.

‘As a rule of thumb, people with sensitive skin should avoid using abrasive scrubs, toners with irritating ingredients such as alcohol, and masks with irritating ingredients like fragrant essential oils,’ Innoxa’s Malie Zauber says.

‘Scrubbing mitts and loofahs, steaming and also alternating between hot and cold water should also be avoided.’

Cameron Diaz says her sensitive skin takes a lot of effort and is always breaking out.

What you need
1. Skincare: ‘When caring for sensitive skin, the fundamental requirement is to avoid contact with irritants and to use gentle emollients to protect the fragile natural barrier,’ says Trilogy’s co-founder and sensitive skin sufferer Cath de Groot. Always try to choose products that have been allergy tested, too.
2. Sun protection: ‘Heat can irritate the skin more, so make sure you apply sunscreen on a regular basis,’ Malie says. ‘Avoid highly fragranced creams and patch-test new products on your inner arm prior to use. If you know what you are allergic to, read the ingredients label.’
3. Make-up: ‘Avoid ingredients such as talc, perfume and chemical preservatives, which can be quite drying and can cause sensitivities as well as hyper pigmentation,’ Jane Iredale make-up artist Celeste David says. Mineral-based formulas hide redness without causing congestion.

Ada Nicodemou is a fan of Nude by Nature.

Products
1. Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Cover, $39.95, and Application Brush, $14.95, 1300 857 518.
2. Glominerals GloRoyal Lip Crayon in Sienna, $35, 1800 664 455.
3. Trilogy Very Gentle Calming Fluid, $43, (03) 9533 1336.
4. Jane Iredale Lip Fixation lip stain/gloss in Fascination, $56, 1300 850 008.
5. Almay Intense i-Color Eyeshadow, $20.95, 1800 025 488.
6. Alpha Keri Lotion Dry Skin Treatment, $12.38, (03) 9763 0322.
7. Innoxa Skin Sensitive Daily Moisture Lotion SPF 15, $24.95, 1800 025 607.
8. Jane Iredale So-Bronze 3 Bronzing Powder, $86, 1300 850 008.