Have you ever gone to the closest drug store and gotten lost down the vast aisles of skincare products? If so, you are not alone, as most pharmacies sell countless products, all with their own individual claims of how their product can help your skin. While we may think moisturizer is great for dry skin, it may not be ideal for those with sensitive skin. Not all moisturizers are made the same and can be made with a variety of ingredients that actually have harmful effects.
What We Mean by Sensitive Skin
When we refer to sensitive skin, we mean more than just a common itch. Instead, sensitive skin is typically related to skin conditions such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, and rosacea. Skin researcher, Peter Elias, MD, at UC San Francisco reports that more than one in two Americans experiences some kind of skin condition such as these. His comprehensive research started 45 years ago and has led to his discovery that moisturizers found on shelves can actually be harmful to your skin. Dr. Elias first began his research after hearing complaints from customers that their skin felt even worse after applying their moisturizers.
Our Protective Skin
Dr. Elias compares our skin tissue to that of a brick wall in that it protects our body from the elements every day. Our outer skin tissue is a layer of corneocytes, or dead skin cells, that is held together like a brick wall. This membrane is made up of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids which are typically present in equal amounts.
Breaking Down the Barrier
Store-bought moisturizers often do not test their product on sensitive skin, so you may not know if your purchase will be effective for your skin or not. These products may have a various amount of cholesterol, ceramides, and fatty acids that can then cause your skin to change its acidity level. Dr. Elias compares this process to your “brick wall” turning into “Swiss cheese,” resulting in a skin condition that develops on the application area. Make sure you to research your purchases beforehand and find out if they are effective for sensitive skin.
Skin Care Relief Today
At the St. Louis Laser Liposuction Center, we make sure our patients all receive an individualized skincare plan based upon their needs. Call today for your free consultation and get started on achieving clear and better looking skin. Learn more about dermatology today!
