Sensitive Skin: The Complete Guide
Sensitive skin is incredibly common, but it isn't always straightforward, sometimes skin is sensitive by nature, and sometimes it becomes sensitised by external triggers. Either way, using the right products in the right way can make a real difference, and living with sensitive skin gets easier once you know what to look out for. Here's how to understand what's going on with your skin and build a gentle, natural routine that keeps it calm and comfortable.
Sensitive or Sensitised Skin? What's the Difference?
Sensitive skin is usually a lasting trait, it reacts more easily to certain products, weather or stress, and can show up as redness, itching or burning. If this sounds familiar, our guide on what causes sensitive skin goes into more detail on the common triggers.
Sensitised skin, on the other hand, is usually temporary, it happens when the skin barrier has been disrupted by something like over-exfoliating, harsh actives, or sudden changes in weather. You can read more about the key differences between sensitive and sensitised skin, and it's worth noting you can have both at once. Either way, the first step is avoiding common irritants, our guide on what to avoid if you have sensitive skin covers fragrance, harsh exfoliants and other culprits to watch out for. Much of our range is also dermatologically approved for sensitive skin, for extra peace of mind.
Building a Routine for Sensitive Skin
A gentle, minimal routine is usually best for sensitive skin. Here's how to build one with our fragrance-free, organic range:
- Cleanse, morning and night - the Organic Reviving Cleansing Cream is fragrance-free and gently removes impurities without disturbing the skin barrier.
- Exfoliate gently, no more than once or twice a week - the Organic Exfoliating Tonic with AHA & PHA, or use the Organic Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask for an even gentler option.
- Hydrate and protect - the Organic Radiance-Boosting Face Cream nourishes without a heavy or greasy feel.
- Nourish, in the evening - the unscented Organic Anti-Ageing Facial Oil hydrates and soothes without added fragrance.
- Patch test new products - see our guide to patch testing and introduce one new step at a time so you can identify what your skin responds well to.
For more on how our full range works together, see the benefits of the Lucy Bee Core Collection for sensitive skin.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have sensitive skin?+
Common signs include redness, itching, burning or a tight, uncomfortable feeling after using certain products or being exposed to weather, heat or stress. If this sounds familiar, our fragrance-free range is designed to be gentle from the first use.
Is exfoliating okay for sensitive skin?+
Yes, but less is more. Stick to a gentle exfoliant like our AHA & PHA Tonic once or twice a week, or opt for the Pineapple Enzyme Face Mask, which offers a softer alternative to physical scrubs.
Can I use active ingredients like Vitamin C if I have sensitive skin?+
You can, but introduce actives slowly and one at a time, patch testing first. If your skin reacts, ease off frequency rather than stopping altogether, and always follow with a barrier-supporting moisturiser.
What ingredients should I avoid if I have sensitive skin?+
Fragrance, essential oils, alcohol-based products and sulphates are common triggers. Our full guide to why fragrance-free skincare matters for sensitive skin covers this in more detail.
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