Redness, itchiness and a burning sensation are classic signs of sensitive skin.
There are many factors that cause sensitive skin, and these could be irritants in products used, temperature change and even stress.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mabelle Colayco explained the two factors that people with sensitive skin must know.
Dr. Colayco explained that sensitive skin occurs when there is a break on the skin.
‘Your skin is not one whole sheet; it’s not a blanket. It’s made up of bricks, and in between the bricks, there are ‘cement’ and that ‘cement’ when you have sensitive skin, may break siya.
‘Parang sa kalye, ‘pag may break, pumupunta doon ‘yung environmental factors tapos nagkaka-inflammation sa ilalim. Pag nagka-inflammation sa ilalim, tuloy-tuloy na yung cascade ng sensitive skin,’ the dermatologist explained, likening sensitive skin to a damaged road with holes being invaded by impurities that cause the skin condition.
The remedy is to target two issues that contribute to the development of sensitive skin: repairing the barrier and addressing inflammation.
These can be addressed by a visit to the dermatologist for an apt treatment plan, which include products that feature ingredients that target these skin issues.
Dr. Colayco said to take note of products that have ceramide, lipids, and glycerin, and anti-inflammatory ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, chamomile and calendula.
Ceramide and lipids are protective barriers, while glycerin is a humectant, a water-attracting ingredient that draws moisture from the air deeper into the skin. Calendula is an ingredients that helps hydrate and heal the skin, while chamomile soothes irritation, reduces redness and calms irritated skin.
Colloidal oatmeal, she said, is different from the remedy of cooking oatmeal at home. This is the reason why the dermatologist recommends FDA-approved products with these ingredients because these have undergone lab processing and testing proven to be safe and effective for use by a vast number of people.
Dr. Collayco was among the dermatologists present at the launch of the collaboration between beauty and wellness retalier and the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) last Wednesday.
The collaboration features free skin consultation at mall activation sites, including at the Mall of Asia Atrium only available until today, October 5.
Watsons also began offering free dermatology consultations every weekend from 12 noon to 8 p.m. in select stores in the metro. Visit SM MOA 7, Robinsons Place Manila, SM North Edsa Grand, SM Grand Central, SM Megamall, or SM City Tanza to get direct and accessible skin consultation with an expert.