By Sarah Farrar, MChem.
Founder of AINMHÍ  
18th June 2025
Sarah is a leading expert in skincare formulation design and development, with over 7 years of experience creating bespoke formulations for companies all over the world. She is the Founder and Chief Technical Officer at AINMHÍ in County Kerry, Ireland and is responsible for the creation of multiple award-winning skincare products from the heart of Kenmare. 

Do you experience unexplained tingling, tightness, or a burning sensation on your face? Does your skin react unpleasantly to everyday products or environmental changes? You might have sensitive skin.

Sensitive skin is a common skin concern characterised by unpleasant sensations, with or without visible redness (erythema), often in response to stimuli that typically don't irritate normal skin. These symptoms can range from subtle tingling and tightness to more intense heating sensations, burning, or even occasional itching (pruritus). Individuals with sensitive skin frequently struggle to find cosmetic products they can tolerate.

How to Identify Sensitive Skin: A Chemist's Perspective

From a clinical standpoint, sensitive and intolerant skin exhibits a heightened reactivity, often described as hyper-reactivity. It is prone to redness, can be hot to the touch, there may be stinging, and less commonly, itching, frequently in an intermittent pattern. These feelings of discomfort are significantly exaggerated in response to various triggers that would ordinarily cause no irritation.

Common Triggering Factors for Sensitive Skin:

• Physical Environmental Factors:
  • Ultraviolet (UV) radiation (sun exposure)
  • Extreme hot or cold weather
  • Wind exposure
  • Rapid temperature variations
  • Physical friction or rubbing
• Chemical Irritants:
  • Certain cosmetic ingredients (fragrances, preservatives, acids)
  • Soaps and detergents
  • Hard water
  • Hair removal products 
• Psychological Stressors:
  • High stress levels
  • Strong emotional responses
• Hormonal Fluctuations:
  • Menstrual cycle
  • Pregnancy
  • Menopause / Perimenopause
• Internal Dietary Factors:
  • Spicy foods
  • Alcohol

Sensitive skin's unique characteristic is its lowered tolerance threshold. This means that even mild stimuli, which have no effect on other skin types, can provoke a reaction. The more sensitive the skin, the lower its tolerance threshold. While sensitive skin reacts temporarily at specific times, intolerant skin is a more severe form, exhibiting constant or near-constant reactivity with an almost zero tolerance for external factors.

The Science Behind Sensitive Skin: Unpacking the Two Primary Causes

Understanding the root causes of heightened skin sensitivity is crucial for effective management. Two main physiological factors contribute to this decreased tolerance threshold:

1. Impaired Epidermal Barrier Function: The outermost layer of your skin, the epidermis, acts as a protective barrier. In sensitive and intolerant skin, this barrier is compromised or "leaky." This impairment leads to:
   • Increased Trans-epidermal Water Loss (TEWL): More water evaporates from the skin, leading to dehydration and dryness.
   • Enhanced Penetration of Irritants: The compromised barrier allows potential irritants, allergens, and micro-organisms to penetrate more easily into deeper skin layers, triggering inflammatory responses.
2. Dysregulation of Cutaneous Nerve Endings and Inflammation: Research suggests that sensitive skin exhibits an abnormal response in its superficial nerve endings. These nerve endings may:
   • Secrete Excess Pro-inflammatory Cytokines: These are molecules released by skin cells that send signals promoting inflammation and pain sensations.
   • Release Specific Neuro-mediators: These chemicals directly stimulate nerve endings, causing the unpleasant tingling, burning, and stinging sensations experienced by affected individuals.
   • Increased Free Radical Production: Sensitive and intolerant skin also tends to produce an excess of reactive oxygen species (free radicals), which contribute to cellular damage and inflammation.

Who is Affected by Sensitive Skin? Demographics and Associated Conditions

Sensitive skin is a remarkably common phenomenon, estimated to affect approximately one-third of the adult population globally.

• Gender Differences: Women (around 60%) are more frequently affected than men (around 40%).
• Genetics and Predisposition: Family history and genetics play a significant role, with some individuals naturally having more sensitive skin, particularly those with fair skin tones. However, it's crucial to note that skin colour does not determine sensitivity.
• Age: The prevalence of sensitive skin generally tends to decrease with age.
• Associated Skin Conditions: Sensitive skin may often co-exist or be a symptom of other facial dermatological conditions, including:
  • Rosacea: A chronic inflammatory condition causing facial redness and visible blood vessels.
  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): An inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches.
  • Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: A common skin condition that mainly affects your scalp, causing scaly patches, red skin and stubborn dandruff.

Neglecting to take precautions against known triggering factors can cause the phenomenon of sensitive skin to appear or worsen over time. Beyond the physical discomfort, having sensitive skin can also have significant psychological repercussions, with many sufferers describing themselves as having low confidence, embarrassment or the need to abstain from everyday activities. Unfortunately, treating other dermatological problems in sensitive skin can be challenging, as many conventional local treatments are poorly tolerated.

Four Expert Recommendations for Managing Sensitive Skin

Effective management of sensitive skin involves a multi-faceted approach focused on identifying triggers, strengthening the skin barrier, and using appropriate products.

1. Complete Dermatological Diagnosis: It is highly recommended to consult a dermatologist if you suspect you have sensitive skin or are struggling with persistent symptoms. A specialist can:

• Accurately identify the specific factors causing your skin to react or worsen.
• Perform a thorough examination to rule out underlying conditions like rosacea, eczema, or seborrhoeic dermatitis, which require specific medical treatments.
• Provide personalized advice tailored to your unique skin profile.

2. Daily Skincare Routine Adaptation: A simplified and consistent skincare routine is key.

• Cleansing: Use ultra-gentle, soap-free, fragrance-free, and pH-balanced cleansers. Oil Cleansers designed for sensitive skin are often an excellent choice as they cleanse effectively whilst providing a protective layer. Avoid harsh scrubbing or hot water.
• Moisturising: Apply a rich, emollient moisturizer specifically formulated for sensitive skin immediately after cleansing. Look for products containing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerine, and colloidal oatmeal, which help to repair the skin barrier and retain moisture. Avoid products with dyes, alcohol, or synthetic fragrances.

3. Strategic Product Selection:

• "Free From" Formulations: Prioritize products labelled "hypoallergenic," "fragrance-free," "paraben-free," or "for sensitive skin." Always perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area (e.g., behind the ear) before applying a new product to your entire face.
• Minimalist Approach: The fewer ingredients, the less potential for irritation; opt for products with shorter ingredient lists.

4. Proactive Sun Protection: UV radiation is a significant trigger for sensitive skin.

• Broad-Spectrum SPF: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.
• Mineral Sunscreens: Consider mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these are generally less irritating than chemical sunscreens.
• Protective Measures: Seek shade, wear wide-brimmed hats, and protective clothing when outdoors.

Our Skincare Recommendations for Sensitive Skin:

While individual results may vary, these tips are recommended for sensitive skin, focusing on barrier repair and soothing properties: