Today, I’ll discuss the third of the four skin parameters: Skin Sensitivity (S) vs. Resistance (R). Sensitive skin includes acne, facial flushing and redness, eczema and skin burning and stinging. Do you turn lobster red or get pimples when you try a new anti-aging skin care product? If you’re one of the 40% who have sensitive skin, you know what I’m talking about. If not, count yourself lucky!

Some types of sensitive skin derive from the condition of your skin barrier. When intact, your barrier protects the vulnerable inner skin layers. Imagine the barrier as the “Saran Wrap” of the skin. When broken down, the barrier cannot keep water from evaporating off the skin, and this “broken seal” allows in allergens and other irritants that cause your skin to react. Ouch!

People with sensitive skin react to a wide range of substances, including ingredients in skin care products. With sensitive skin, you may experience acne, redness, stinging, itching, scaling, or allergies—or any of these in combination.

For you, it’s essential to avoid potential irritants by using products formulated without troublesome ingredients. But this can be tricky as skin care devised for sensitive skin is not typically formulated to address all of your skin needs, (depending on whether you are dry, oily or pigmented.) My recommendation? When you find, something that works for you, stick to it!

On the other hand, people with resistant skin have the opposite problem. Yes, you can use skin care products without developing a rash, breakouts or stinging. However, resistant skin is also less able to absorb beneficial ingredients that help prevent dark spots, drying, and aging. That’s why, to get real results, you may have to use stronger prescription products.

For further explanation and specific recommendations, please consult my book, The Skin Type Solution

Wishing you great skin!