Yes, There Is A Difference Between Sensitive
and Sensitized Skin

As many as 80% of women complain about skin sensitivity, redness, inflammation and itchiness. There is no one cause, as everyone is an individual. Genetics, environmental exposure, misuse of products, stress, etc., all can be challenging to your skin. A good first step in treatment is to determine whether your skin “sensitive” or “sensitized.” Let’s explore the differences:

Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin tends to be more intrinsic (genetic) in nature. It is often associated with red, irritated, stinging skin that can react to the smallest changes, be it a cosmetic or a result of environmental changes. Environmental factors such as stress, fatigue, drugs, alcohol, sun exposure and pollution can cause additional aggravation to the skin. Don’t discount those internal aspects either, such as hormones and the natural aging of the skin. People who have more peaches & cream type skin also have more of a tendency towards redness due to the color of the skin and the fact that you can more easily notice the capillaries, especially in the cheek area. That’s those “red cheeks” we commonly hear about.

Sensitized Skin
Hundreds of causes can be the culprit here. People with usually normal skin that suddenly becomes sensitive should look at both internal and external factors. Over-treating or improper handling of you skin can cause skin to be sensitized. Don’t over exfoliation the skin, stay away from harsh scrubs and cleansers, and watch out for heavily perfumed products, as these can all cause reactions. The goal here—be gentle.

There is no common cause for sensitivity and it may not even be what you are using on your face that is causing the problem. Hair products, perfumes, nail polish, food allergies, even stress can be where the problem lies. It is best to look at all aspects of internal and external possibilities in your lifestyle. Eliminate those things you think might be the issue, adding one at a time back into your regimen. You can also be tested for allergies by your physician, should the reaction be highly irritating or on-going.

Tips
No matter if you have naturally sensitive skin, or have caused your skin to be sensitized by improper care and management, it is important to remember to avoid sun, harsh environmental changes and to keep your skin properly moisturized and protected with sunscreen to help avoid potential irritation. Be gentle and avoid harsh detergents or soaps. Eat right, get your sleep, minimize stress and supplement your diet, as these are key components, not only for your overall health, but your skin will appreciate the benefits, too.

“All the leaves are brown and the sky is grey……
California Dreaming”

I love Fall. Maybe it’s the cooler weather ushered in by the abundance of crimson and gold colored leaves whisking through the yard, evenings creeping their way into the afternoon and the slow retreat from cooler temperatures to warmer comforts indoors. . . .ooh, did I already mention we’re located in LA? Ok, you caught me. LA, where we sport the occasional scarf and boots to indicate that technically the season has changed, in true Southern California fashion, our rendition is a bit unique with Fall simply representing the bridge between sunny and warm weather and, well, slightly less hours of sunny and warm weather. The only visible signs of fall are reflected in the changes in fashions and seeing the crimson and gold running a blitz on 4th and 10 at the Coliseum—rather than in the foliage.

Either way, the highlight of the fall season is the evening of the 31st where little ghouls and goblins roam the neighborhoods in search of tasty treats, or fun-loving grown-ups taking the opportunity to put their alter-ego on display at the office (you always thought the girl in the cube across from you had diva tendencies. . .) Haunting the halls of Murad corporate this year were a variety of skillfully crafted ensembles ranging from rock stars and cowgirls to our very own Intensive Wrinkle Reducer—who took top honors in our annual costume contest. The annual office soirée was a success complete with costume fashion show, pumpkin carving contest and stomach ache (ok, I speak for myself here after gobbling up more candy than one should consume in a month). While we all recover from the festivities, its already time to look forward to what random cast of characters will make an appearance next year. I only hope that after a year enough time has passed for the office cleaning crew to forgive me for the trail of scales (sequins) left in the aftermath of my Nemo costume swimming around the office.