Sensitized Skin
Definition
Sensitized skin is a condition where the skin has become temporarily reactive, irritated, and easily aggravated due to external factors, as opposed to having a naturally sensitive skin type (which is genetically determined). Sensitization occurs when the skin barrier is compromised by overuse of active ingredients (retinoids, AHAs, BHAs), harsh cleansers, environmental damage (wind, cold, pollution), excessive exfoliation, or allergic reactions. Symptoms include stinging, burning, redness, dryness, tightness, and increased reactivity to products that were previously well-tolerated. The key to treating sensitized skin is to simplify the skincare routine drastically — stop all active ingredients and use only a gentle cleanser, a barrier-repairing moisturizer (with ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids), and sunscreen. The skin barrier typically takes 2-4 weeks to recover with proper care. Gradually reintroduce actives one at a time once the barrier has healed.
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