5 Ways to Make Your Skin Healthy and Less Sensitive

5 Ways to Make Your Skin Healthy and Less SensitiveSensitive skin stinks. It makes everything from finding the right cleansing routine to buying makeup five times harder. But the good news is that there’s plenty of good info on the market and specialized products to help you get glowing skin even if your skin is picky. Here are my top tips for figuring out what’s happening with your skin, and getting the best plan in place to get your skin looking its best.Figure out what’s happening with your skinWhat does sensitive skin mean exactly? Is your skin super dry and nothing will clear it up? Does any new product lead to an outbreak of epic proportions? Are you struggling with blemishes way past the time you thought they’d be a problem? If your skin isn’t at its best, figure out what the problem is. Treatment for overly dry skin is very different than treatments for skin that breaks out constantly due to products or environmental factors. A bit of sleuthing will take you a long way.Find out what’s in your skincare productsMany people with sensitive skin are surprised to learn that the biggest issue their skin is facing is what’s in the products their using. Harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and antibacterial or deodorant products are a major source of irritation. The best way around this is to use products that are formulated for sensitive skin, or for the type of skin you’re dealing with. Choosing products with natural ingredients can also help. If you need more information on what’s in products you’re using, check out EWG’s Skindeep database. Products such as mineral makeup may be easier on your skin than heavy creams as well, so experiment when choosing what makeup you use.Commit to a cleansing routineIf your skin is prone to breakouts, the most important thing you can do is cleanse regularly. Always use the mildest cleanser possible for your skin type. Creams tend to be less drying. Cleansing your skin twice a day will give you a strong base to work from, but in a pinch it’s most important to do a thorough cleansing at night. Removing all the makeup on your skin will help avoid irritation, clogged pores, and more. When in doubt, follow this up with a stronger product designed to help fight breakouts and keep oil at bay.

http://cdn.sheknows.com/articles/2013/03/Kori/lavender-facial-scrub.jpgGet your level of moisture rightTroubled skin needs moisture. It’s obvious if you’re fighting dry skin – but if your skin is oily or irritated, you may be less likely to want to want to pile on the product. But keeping your skin moisturized is critical to keeping your skin healthy. When it feels dry, skin tends to overproduce oils that clog pores and worsen inflammation. Always cleanse skin before you moisturize. Remember that lotions don’t add moisture back into the skin; instead, they form a barrier to trap existing moisture in. If needed, spritz on a bit of water before applying moisturizer to get the best bang for your buck with products.Pay attention to your dietDid you know that dietary changes can have a big impact on your skin? As the body’s largest organ, your hydration levels and diet often show in your skin. If you have a food allergy such as a gluten sensitivity, cutting it out can often improve your skin’s appearance. Drink plenty of water, and find sources of healthy fats such as almonds and avocado in your diet. Small changes can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.Taking care of sensitive skin doesn’t have to be hard. Take the time to really understand your skin, look closely at what you’re putting on your face and in your body, and be vigilant with your cleansing and moisturizing. Your skin will be healthy and glowing in no time!Elizabeth Alton is a freelance business and technology writer. She covers trends related to small business, entrepreneurs, and the evolving digital landscape. Her work has been published by The Huffington Post, USA Today, The Daily Muse, Better Homes and Gardens, and PolicyMic. Connect with Elizabeth on Google+ 

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