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Factors defining sensitive skin and its treatment
N Muizzuddin1, K D Marenus, D H Maes
1Estée Lauder Companies, Melville, NY 11747, USA.
Summary
Sensitive skin is characterized by impaired barrier function and hyperreactivity. Specialized skincare can improve barrier function and reduce sensitivity over time.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
- Biophysics
Background:
- Sensitive skin is often self-reported, but objective measures are needed for accurate classification.
- Adverse reactions to cosmetics range from mild irritation to severe inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively measure differences in skin barrier function between sensitive and normal skin types.
- To assess the impact of specific skincare treatments on sensitive skin barrier function and reactivity.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated skin barrier function using transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after tape stripping.
- Assessed skin reactivity to irritants like balsam of Peru and lactic acid.
- Monitored changes in barrier function and reactivity after an 8-week treatment regimen.
Main Results:
- Individuals with sensitive skin demonstrated compromised barrier function and heightened reactivity to irritants.
- An 8-week treatment regimen with minimal preservatives and no surfactants normalized barrier function and reactivity in sensitive skin.
Conclusions:
- Sensitive skin results from a combination of barrier disruption and hyperreactivity to topical agents.
- Targeted skincare formulations can effectively mitigate sensitive skin characteristics and improve overall skin health.