How Can You Treat Sensitive Skin That Is Aging?

Whether your skin has always been sensitive or it has become more sensitive as you get older, you may find it’s hard to find products that address the signs of aging without irritation.

If you’ve been struggling with sensitive skin and finding ways to manage it, while also addressing the signs of aging, then you are in the right place.

Here you will learn causes and triggers of sensitive skin, ways to manage it, and also how to minimize signs of aging without the irritation.

What are some common causes of sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin can be caused by various factors, ranging from genetics to environmental factors.

Some common causes of sensitive skin include:

1. Genetics: Some people are born with a genetic predisposition to sensitive skin, making them more susceptible to irritation and inflammation.

2. Allergies: Allergic reactions to certain substances, such as fragrances, dyes, or preservatives, can cause skin sensitivity.

3. Environmental Factors: Exposure to harsh weather, such as extreme heat, cold, or dryness, can lead to sensitive skin. Sunburn and windburn can also cause sensitivity.

4. Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis, can cause sensitivity and irritation.

5 Aging: As we age, our skin becomes thinner and less resilient, leading to increased sensitivity.

6. Over-exfoliation or harsh skincare products: Using abrasive scrubs, strong acids, or harsh cleansers can strip the skin’s protective barrier and cause sensitivity.

7. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can cause the skin to become more sensitive.

8. Dehydration: If you don’t drink enough water or are exposed to a dry environment. it can lead to dehydrated skin, making it more prone to sensitivity.

9. Stress and Lack of Sleep: High stress levels and poor sleep quality can weaken the skin’s barrier function and increase sensitivity.

10. Medications: Certain medications, such as retinoids or chemotherapy drugs, can cause skin sensitivity as a side effect.

Also, as we get older, the natural oils in our skin decrease, leading to dry skin.

What are the symptoms of sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is actually a common issue that many people experience. Although symptoms can vary from person to person, here are some common signs of sensitive skin:

1. Redness: Skin may appear flushed or red, especially after exposure to irritants or triggers such as harsh soaps, fragrances, or extreme temperatures.

 2. Dryness: Sensitive skin can often feel tight and dry, leading to flaking or peeling sometimes.

3. Itching: Itchy skin is a common symptom, often accompanied by redness and irritation.

4. Burning or stinging sensations: Some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation when applying certain products, such as skincare or makeup.

5. Prone to breakouts: Sensitive skin can be more prone to breakouts and acne due to the skin’s weakened barrier function.

6. Allergic Reactions: Those with sensitive skin may be more likely to experience allergic reactions, such as hives, rashes, or contact dermatitis.

7. Increased Reactivity: Sensitive skin can react more quickly and intensely to triggers, such as changes in temperature, humidity, or exposure to allergens.

8. Swelling: Sometimes, sensitive skin may swell or become puffy in response to irritants or allergens.

Some ways to manage sensitive skin

Even though sensitive skin can be challenging, with proper care, you can reduce irritation and maintain a healthy complexion.

1.Identify your skin’s triggers: Keep track of the products, ingredients, or environmental factors that cause irritation or flare-ups.

2. Choose Gentle Products: Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic skincare products specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

3. Patch Test New Products: Before applying new products on your entire face or body, apply a small amount to a discreet area (like behind your ear or on your inner arm) and wait 24-48 hours to see if any irritation occurs.

4. Maintain A Consistent Routine: Stick to a simple, consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Avoid frequently changing products, as this can further irritate your skin.

5. Avoid Over-Exfoliating: Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s tolerance.Choose gentle exfoliants like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acid over harsher ones, like glycolic acid or physical scrubs.

6. Keep Your Skin Hydrated: Moisturize daily with a gentle fragrance-free product that’s appropriate for your skin type. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that help keep moisture.

7. Protect Your Skin From The Sun: Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days. Look for physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which tend to be gentler on sensitive skin.

8. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate skin sensitivity and trigger flare-ups. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.

9. Limit Exposure To Irritants: Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and household cleaners that can irritate your skin. Wear gloves when using cleaning products and choose fragrance-free laundry detergents.

10. Consult A Dermatologist: If your sensitive skin persists despite your best efforts or worsens over time, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and potential treatments.

Can certain foods or allergies contribute to sensitive skin?

Yes, certain foods and allergies can contribute to sensitive skin. For example, consuming spicy and acidic foods can trigger skin irritation and redness.

 Additionally, food allergies can cause skin reactions such as hives or eczema. It is important to identify any food allergies or triggers that may cause your sensitive skin and avoid them if possible.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids can help improve skin health and minimize sensitivity.

What skincare ingredients are best for sensitive, aging skin?

1. Ceramides: These are naturally occurring lipids in the skin that help to strengthen the skin barrier and improve hydration.

2. Hyaluronic acid: This is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to plump and hydrate it.

3. Niacinamide: This is a form of vitamin B3 that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce redness and irritation in sensitive skin.

4. Aloe vera: This natural ingredient has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm sensitive skin.

5. Green tea extract: This antioxidant-rich ingredient can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors that can contribute to aging and sensitivity.

It’s important to note that everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before trying out new skincare products, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Probiotics & Prebiotics

Probiotics and prebiotics can help sensitive aging skin by promoting a healthy balance of microorganisms on the skin’s surface, strengthening the skin barrier, and providing essential nutrients. Here’s how they work:

1. Skin microbiome balance: The skin is home to a diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, collectively known as the skin microbiome. A balanced skin microbiome is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. Probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria, and prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, can help maintain this balance by promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms and inhibiting the growth of harmful ones.

2. Strengthening the skin barrier: The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, which acts as a protective shield against environmental stressors, such as pollution, UV radiation, and irritants. As we age, the skin barrier becomes weaker, making it more susceptible to damage and sensitivity. Probiotics and prebiotics can help strengthen the skin barrier by increasing the production of natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) and ceramides, which are essential components of the skin barrier.

3. Reducing inflammation: Inflammation is a common cause of sensitive aging skin. Probiotics and prebiotics can help reduce inflammation by modulating the skin’s immune response. They do this by increasing the production of anti-inflammatory substances and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

4. Enhancing skin hydration: Hydration is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. As we age, our skin’s ability to keep moisture decreases, leading to dryness and sensitivity. Probiotics and prebiotics can help improve skin hydration by increasing the production of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in the skin that attracts and keeps water.

5. Supporting collagen production: Collagen is a protein that provides structure and strength to the skin. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains can help stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness.

To incorporate probiotics and prebiotics into your skincare routine, look for products containing these ingredients, such as creams, serums, and cleansers.

Learn more about probiotics.

Also read 11 Ways To Combat Acne, Redness, Rosacea, And Eczema.

 You can also support your skin’s health by consuming a diet rich in probiotics and prebiotics, including fermented foods (such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi) and high-fiber foods (such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes).

Use this instead of that

If your skin has been irritated or inflamed recently, you should first work on building your barrier back up and making it stronger. 

Four to six weeks is the recommended time to allot to building up your barrier before introducing any actives into your routine.

After you have built up your barrier, only introduce one new ingredient at a time. That way if you experience any reaction, you will be able to narrow it down.

You will also pose less risk of aggravating your skin by introducing one at a time.

These are the ingredients to swap out:

Instead of kojic acid, use azelaic acid for pigmentation concerns. Azelaic acid is easier on the skin, has anti-inflammatory properties, is anti-bacterial, and will brighten the skin. It can also treat melasma, acne, and rosacea.

Instead of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) use Tetrahexyldecyl (THD) to fight wrinkles and brighten your skin. Ascorbic acid is the most active form of vitamin C but can irritate the skin, while THD won’t.

Instead of retinol use bakuchiol or retinyl palmitate to fight wrinkles and fine lines. Retinol is known as being an anti-aging super ingredient, but it can also be very irritating, especially to sensitive skin. Retinyl palmitate is a milder form of vitamin A and bakuchiol is the plant-based version of retinol.

Instead of AHAs use PHAs for exfoliation. AHAs, such as glycolic acid and citirc acid can be irritating for the skin, while PHAs are more soothing and hydrating.


If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, I would love to hear from you!