Sensitive skin reacts to foreign substances more easily than does normal skin. For a person with sensitive skin, treating acne blemishes takes special care and consideration. In some cases, a visit to a dermatologist may be in order if the breakouts continue after 8 weeks of careful care.
Limit Use of Products
Over the counter (OTC) acne products have a drying effect on the skin. The drying effect may cause a person who has sensitive skin to experience severe unwanted peeling and drying of the skin. If you notice that your skin is drying out and peeling, decrease the frequency you apply the OTC acne products. For example, if you have been applying the product twice per day, start applying it once per day. Some dryness and peeling are normal, according to the Mayo Clinic, and usually go away after a month of use of treatment.
Wash Gently
Sensitive skin is prone to irritation. To combat potential irritation that may occur with frequent or harsh washings, use your fingertips to apply a gentle cleanser to the acne prone areas. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you wash your face no more than once or twice per day.
Check the Label
When you are choosing products to use on acne prone areas, look for products labeled non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. These products won’t clog pores. For a person with sensitive skin, a clogged pore is likely to result in an acne blemish. Sunscreen, cosmetics and moisturizers are all products on which you can find non-acnegenic and non-comedogenic labeling.
Keep Objects Away from Skin
Your hands and inanimate objects can transfer oils and bacteria to the acne prone areas. Oils and bacteria can cause acne to worsen. To prevent this, keep your hands and other objects, such as phones, away from your skin. If you must allow these objects to come into contact with your skin, first clean them with alcohol or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
