All women want a flawless and dewy complexion. For most of us, however, perfect skin is only a distant dream when acne, eczema, and psoriasis are a periodic fact of our lives.
You don’t have to grimace and hide in layers of clothing. Because having healthy and naturally flowing skin from head to toe isn’t a dream beyond reach. So here are some of the common sensitive skin conditions and how to deal with them:
1. Acne
You thought you left breakouts behind when you graduated from high school, but acne is popping all over again now that you’re a full-grown adult. While acne during the adolescent period is caused by too much of the hormone androgen in your body, acne during adulthood is usually caused by a number of factors: a bacteria called P. acnes, sticky skin cells that clog up pores, stress, or compression (from pressing your phone against your chin, for example).
To deal with an acne outbreak, wash your face gently with warm water and a facial wash with salicylic acid. Avoid touching, scrubbing, and squeezing the blemishes, as this may only cause additional irritation and lead to scarring. Also, don’t pop anything!
2. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition. It occurs when your immune systems sends out signals and speeds up the growth of skin cells. The most common form of this condition is plaque psoriasis, which reveals itself as white, scaly patches over irritated red skin. It can occur anywhere on the body, especially on the knees and elbows.
So how can you deal with the condition? Keep your skin moisturized. More importantly, see your doctor and make sure you follow the right diet and lifestyle to help you manage the condition.
[crp]3. Eczema
Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a condition that appears as red, swollen blotches or patches on the face and neck, as well as the folds of the knees and elbows. It can also affect the hands and feet. No one knows what causes it, but don’t worry—it’s not contagious.
Moisturizing is the key to keeping your skin looking its best when you have eczema. Make sure it stays soft and supple, as this can help manage flare-ups. Avoid scratching; this will only worsen the condition.
4. Rosacea
If you have skin that flushes easily, especially when touched; obvious red blood vessels; and pimples on the cheeks and around your nose, you may have rosacea. There are no identified causes of this condition, but there are so many treatments that can make your skin a red-free zone.
Much like most sensitive skin conditions, you need to moisturize, moisturize, and moisturize. Make sure to choose a fragrance-free, oil-free, and hypoallergenic product because using the wrong one can make your redness worse. Avoid triggers like stress, extreme heat or cold, spicy food, and alcohol.
5. Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection caused by the Trichophyton fungus. You get it by walking around barefoot in a hot, damp place, such as the locker room at the gym, a shared public shower, or around the pool.
To avoid getting this embarrassing condition, stay dry, spray an antifungal product in your shoes, and never forget to slip on a clean pair of slippers, sandals, or shoes.
Get away from stress, stay moisturized—and embarrassing or not, talk to your doctor about your condition. Don’t let acne, eczema, or psoriasis prevent you from achieving the skin of your dreams!