How to Care for Inflamed Skin
Irritated or inflamed skin is something we can all encounter during the holiday months––even those of us with the healthiest glow! While we can do our best to avoid irritants, holiday celebrations (lack of sleep, a few cocktails, and other sweet indulgences) can take a toll on our skin.
On the other hand, those with pre-existing conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dry/dehydrated skin will also fight the same struggles. And stinging skin, itching, swelling, and redness can turn makeup applications into a nightmare.
This makes it so important to choose makeup and skin care products that work hand-in-hand with keeping blemishes or other concerns at bay while still allowing your skin to restore itself.
With that being said, here are a few ways to care for inflamed skin this holiday season:
1) CHECK YOUR INGREDIENTS
If your skin is inflamed, we recommend avoiding products and ingredients that strip and irritate the skin barrier, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. Instead, we suggest seeking out anti-inflammatory ingredients and antioxidant-infused products which can help with redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
2) PROTECT
No matter your skin type––and no matter the season––sun protection is a must! Irritated skins will benefit from a gentle, professional-grade SPF of at least 30, such as the Skinceuticals Physical Fusion or the TIZO3 Facial Primer Sunscreen.
It is also important to protect sensitive skin from pollutants, UV radiation, and free radicals. A Vitamin C serum such as the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic is a great add-on to your skincare regimen and won’t worsen irritation.
3) MAKEUP
Applying makeup should always be done with light pressure as friction can easily irritate inflamed skin.
Gently tap or blend in product with a sponge or soft foundation brush, using light motions. Rubbing is a definite no-no!
We also recommend using color correction pigment according to the type of discoloration your skin is experiencing. Green, for example, will conceal redness––meanwhile red will cover dark spots in deeper skin tones.
Lastly, cleaning sponges and makeup brushes regularly is the best way to keep bacteria breeding at bay, and prevent worsening inflammation.
4) REPLENISH
After a day outside in the harsh colds or after an evening with a few drinks, reach for a hydrating overnight mask that contains hydrating ingredients such as ceramides and niacinamide. Without a proper ratio of ceramides, the skin's barrier can become compromised, leading to dryness, itching, and irritation.
We recommend the Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Masque to counter any early signs of inflammation and provide an immediate calming effect. We also love the Hydropeptide Hydro-Lock Sleep Mask, a calming and regenerative formulation that can stay on overnight for extra hydration.
IN CONCLUSION
If you're unsure what is causing your skin to sting, itch, or feel tight and dry, it’s a great reason to reach out to your nearest skincare professional. And here at BSE, we can always help you through our virtual consultations to find the right treatment that will restore your skin’s health and radiance!
Until next time,
The BSE Team