"Sensitive skin" is rarely just sensitivity — usually it indicates an impaired barrier, an underlying condition like rosacea or atopic dermatitis, or a contact allergy. We assess for these first, then build a barrier-first skincare routine.
Building tolerance
- Gentle cream cleanser (no foaming sulfates)
- Ceramide-rich moisturiser, twice daily
- Tinted mineral SPF (better tolerated than chemical/uncoated zinc)
- Introduce one active ingredient at a time at low concentration
- Avoid: fragrance, alcohol denat, essential oils, high-strength acids
Book a consultation for a sensitivity work-up and tolerated routine plan.
Sensitive Skin — Frequently Asked Questions
Is sensitive skin a real condition or just marketing?
Real, but usually a symptom of an underlying issue rather than a standalone diagnosis. Sensitivity is often driven by impaired barrier function, undiagnosed rosacea, atopic tendency, or contact allergies. We diagnose first.
Why does my skin react to most products?
Compromised barrier — water escapes, irritants enter. Common triggers: fragrance, alcohol denat, physical sunscreens with high zinc, retinol started too quickly, glycolic acid at high strength.
How do I build a routine that works?
Step 1: simple gentle cleanser. Step 2: ceramide-rich moisturiser twice daily. Step 3: tinted mineral sunscreen (less likely to sting). Step 4: introduce one active at a time, low concentration, alternate nights.
Can sensitive skin be improved?
Yes — barrier repair takes 6 to 12 weeks of consistent simple skincare. Most "sensitive" patients tolerate more after barrier repairs.
What ingredients should I avoid?
Fragrance, denatured alcohol, essential oils, high-strength glycolic/salicylic, retinol started cold, foaming sulfate cleansers, witch hazel.
Should I see a dermatologist?
If you cannot tolerate any skincare, have visible redness/rash, or chronic itching, yes. Often the underlying issue is rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or contact allergy — treatable conditions, not just "sensitive skin".
