After making it through those awkward teenage years I thought all my troubles were over for a while. Boy was I mistaken. I’ve always had hypersensitive skin, but when I moved to Florida, the extreme heat took it a step further. I developed dermatitis on my cheeks and eyebrows. For those of you unfamiliar with the condition, it can result in red, over-dry and even flaky patches of skin. Fortunately, I have been able to control it with over the counter treatments like Dermarest (available at Wal-mart and CVS) or topical steroids (available by prescription only.)
I have, however, had my share of nasty flare-ups due to using the wrong product. Because of this, I have become extremely picky when it comes to choosing a cleanser, toner, moisturizer and foundation. I try to stay away from products with heavy fragrance and too many chemicals – especially parabens. At the makeup counter I stick to Clinique, Clarins and La Mer. I rely on La Mer during the drier months and when I travel to dry climates. During the warmer months I use Clarins’ hydraquench line, along with their Gentle Foaming Cleanser. I also apply Clinique’s City Block tinted moisturizer with SPF 40 on a daily basis.
At the drugstore it’s best to stick to brands like Neutrogena, Almay and Physicians Formula. I would be weary of Aveeno and Olay – while I have had great success with their bath and body products, the same can’t be said for their facial line.
I hope other people with hypersensitive skin find this helpful. I know it is extra challenging to find something that works!
XO,
Ana
UPDATE: One of our readers suggested I try dabbing a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar and water on the affected area. I am happy to say, that in just three days I have noticed a huge improvement. Thanks!!!
