How Hypersensitive Skin Works

Hypersensitive skin is characterized as overly sensitive skin which is hyper-sensitive to many factors of varying hardness, irritants and irritant tolerance. There are usually three common symptoms experienced by victims – irritation, a compromised epidermal barrier and inflammation, often caused by collagen breakdown. In addition to these common and annoying manifestations, other complications may arise from hypersensitivity. This includes chronic itchiness, chronic pain, allergic reactions to usual skin treatments, and in some cases even death.

When your body is threatened by a substance that you cannot fully break down or digest, it reacts by producing immune complexes that cause the redness and discomfort. These complexes include mast cells, white blood cells and complement cells. In response, the cells cover the skin with a thin film of epidermal (pain) or ceramics. The epidermal layer is highly sensitive to any triggering agent, which can cause severe inflammation, which leads to further redness. These products can include detergents, soaps, alcohol, bubble baths, chlorine, mineral oils, artificial fragrances, preservatives, lanolin, mineral oil, artificial preservatives, sunscreen, lipsticks, shaving creams, deodorants, perfumes, sunscreens, makeup, laundry detergent, toilet paper, laundry powder, shampoos, laundry soaps, leather conditioners, shaving gels and bubble baths.

The redness often results from an allergic reaction, causing skin inflammation, and sometimes acute burning sensations. It is very important to note that a person who experiences persistent, chronic itching, redness and discomfort should consult a physician for a proper diagnosis. Some products can cause the problem. For example, shampoo containing sodium laureth sulphate can cause dry skin, while bubble baths can cause excessive facial dryness. Hypersensitive skin responds to artificial ingredients, such as fragrances.

Researchers have identified two types of hypersensitivity: allergic and mechanical. Allergic reactions can be caused by poison oak, poison ivy, wheat, dairy products and chocolates; while mechanical reactions can occur after contact with insecticides, strong cleaners, detergents, solvents and metal components. In recent years, researchers have discovered that the type of shoe worn can cause allergic reactions, as can the type of bedding used, as can the use of artificial powders and other materials.

If you suffer from allergic skin hypersensitivity, then knowing how to identify triggers can help you find ways to avoid them. People with hypoallergenic skin should never share towels or other textiles used in day care centers with children or pets. They should also not wear synthetic fabrics on their skin, such as clothing. It is important to check bedding and linens for any evidence of chemicals, such as lanolin or dyes. Keeping children away from sources of redness could prevent outbreaks.

For those with allergic reactions to synthetics, avoiding products that contain preservatives may be helpful. However, experts recommend that sufferers avoid bathing suits and wool products altogether, since they contain a variety of chemicals that may trigger a reaction. Sensitive individuals should limit their exposure to artificial ingredients and synthetic fragrances, which often make up a large part of bathing supplies. Those with severe allergies may have difficulty wearing makeup, even though some brands contain preservatives that are less irritating than other artificial ingredients.

Knowing how to recognize potential triggers can help people suffering from sensitiveness have an easier time avoiding potential irritants. One example is temperature changes. Many people have a difficult time dealing with sudden temperature changes. Temperature sensitive skin can become very dry or itchy. Those with sensitive skin should not wash their face more than necessary, using cool water and using a gentle facial cleanser or soap.

Some foods and drinks can also cause reactions. Alcohol has a drying effect on hypersensitive skin, while coffee contains compounds that can cause a burning sensation if applied directly to the skin. Alcohol also produces a pleasant smell that some people find offensive. Hypersensitive people should avoid eating or drinking in places where there may be a guest or host present. While it may be impossible to completely avoid unpleasant sensations like alcohol or caffeine, avoiding these substances altogether can make the problem less noticeable.