Sensitive Skin
Sensitive Skin — a condition in which skin reacts more readily to products or environmental triggers, often with stinging, burning, redness, itching, or tightness. It frequently involves a more reactive or compromised barrier that lets irritants penetrate more easily. Sensitivity can be an ongoing trait or develop temporarily in response to specific factors.
Key points
- Sensitive skin tends to react to triggers such as fragrances, certain actives, weather changes, or friction with discomfort or visible redness.
- A weakened or more permeable skin barrier is often involved, allowing irritants to reach deeper layers more easily.
- Patch testing new products and introducing them one at a time can help identify and avoid personal triggers.
- Gentle, fragrance-free formulas with soothing and barrier-supporting ingredients are commonly better tolerated.
Frequently asked
Is sensitive skin a skin type or a condition?
Sensitive skin is generally considered a condition or state of reactivity that can affect any skin type, whether dry, oily, or combination. It may be persistent or appear temporarily due to triggers, products, or underlying skin concerns.
What ingredients should sensitive skin avoid?
Many people with sensitive skin do better avoiding added fragrance, high concentrations of strong actives, and known irritants, though triggers vary by individual. Patch testing and introducing products gradually help identify what to avoid.
Related topics
This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.
