If you have sensitive skin, you know the struggle. One wrong product, one harsh ingredient, and your skin can feel tight, itchy, or inflamed. But it’s not just the occasional reaction you should be concerned about.

Unlike other skin types, sensitive skin reacts more readily to environmental stressors, allergens, and harsh ingredients. Whether you were born with it or developed it over time due to external factors, maintaining a calm complexion is important to reinforce your skin’s natural defences. Often, it starts with learning what makes your skin react .

What makes skin sensitive?

Sensitive skin is a condition, not a specific type of skin, meaning that people with oily, dry, or combination skin can experience sensitivity. It’s characterized by heightened reactivity to products, temperature changes, and environmental stressors. Those with sensitive skin often experience redness, itching, burning sensations, and dryness.

There are several factors that contribute to sensitive skin:

• A weakened skin barrier – The outermost layer of skin functions as a protective shield, but in sensitive skin, this barrier is often compromised, leading to increased moisture loss and vulnerability to irritants.
• The unavoidable genetics – Some people inherit sensitivity, making them more prone to conditions like eczema, rosacea, and allergies.
• Environmental triggers – Pollution, harsh weather, and UV exposure can exacerbate sensitivity and cause flare-ups and discomfort.
• Harsh skincare products – Ingredients such as alcohol, sulfates, and artificial fragrances can strip the skin’s natural oils and lead to irritation.
• Underlying health conditions – Certain medical conditions, such as dermatitis and psoriasis, can contribute to increased skin reactivity.

Understanding the causes of sensitivity is the first step in choosing products that will support and nourish the skin, rather than disrupt it.

Skin-loving ingredients to look for

To keep sensitive skin calm and healthy, look for ingredients that hydrate, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier, such as:

• Aloe vera – A natural anti-inflammatory that hydrates and calms irritation.
• Shea butter – Provides deep moisturisation and helps restore the skin’s protective barrier.
• Hyaluronic acid – A powerful humectant that retains moisture, keeping the skin hydrated.
• Coconut oil and other natural oils – Help to nourish and reinforce the skin’s natural defences.
• Glycerin – Draws moisture into the skin, preventing dehydration.
• Oat extract – Known for its soothing properties, helping to reduce redness and irritation.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – Strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and helps with uneven skin tone.
• Ceramides – Reinforces the skin’s barrier and preventing moisture loss.

Ingredients to avoid

Sensitive skin reacts negatively to certain chemicals and irritants. If you see these on a label, think twice before using the product:

• Fragrances and essential oils – These can cause allergic reactions and sensitivity.
• Alcohol (denatured or SD alcohol) – Can be overly drying and strip natural oils.
• Sulfates (SLS/SLES) – Harsh cleansing agents that can lead to dryness and irritation.
• Parabens and artificial preservatives – Can sometimes cause sensitivity reactions.
• Synthetic dyes – May cause irritation and are often unnecessary in skincare formulations.

Must-have sensitive skin heroes from Urtekram

If you’re looking for skincare that is truly sensitive skin-friendly, it’s important to check the ingredient list for potential irritants (more so that any messaging on the packaging).

Instead of constantly trying different products, stick to those you know work for your skin to avoid unpleasant skin reactions.

And if you haven’t found your products get, one range you can consider is Urtekram’s Find Balance Fragrance-Free range.

Urtekram is a Copenhagen-based brand that focuses on sustainability and natural ingredients. All its products are vegan and free from parabens, silicones, and synthetic preservatives, using only self-preserving formulas.

This particular range is allergy-certified and offers hydration and protection without harsh chemicals or fragrances. The entire range comprises 13 products, including must-haves such as:

The day-to-day: How to manage sensitive skin

Beyond selecting the right ingredients and products, here are some dermatologist-approved tips for keeping sensitive skin in top condition:

• Patch test new products – Before applying a new product to your face or body, test it on a small area to check for any adverse reactions.
• Stick to a simple routine – Overloading your skin with too many products can increase the risk of irritation. Keep it simple with a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum, and moisturiser.
• Use lukewarm water – Hot water can strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Choose soft fabrics – Harsh materials like wool can aggravate sensitive skin. Opt for breathable, natural fabrics like cotton.
• Stay hydrated – Drinking enough water helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier from the inside out.

Caring for sensitive skin requires paying attention to ingredients, avoiding harsh products, and sticking to what works best for you. By understanding your skin’s needs and opting for gentle, natural solutions, you can protect your skin’s barrier and keep it calm, healthy, and resilient.