Sensitive Skin

Internal and external factors influence skin sensitivity. UV exposure, excessive contact with water, alkalis and solvents, as well as dermatological treatments can lead to increased skin sensitivity. Diseases, such as diabetes or kidney failure can also cause skin to become more sensitive. In general sensitive skin refers to a skin condition that shows a lower resistance to irritants.

Typical visible characteristics of sensitive skin include:

• Reddening
• Swelling
• Scaling
• Eczema

In addition, subjective signs include:

• Prickling
• Burning
• Itching
• Tightness

Although difficult to define, sensitive skin can be determined by measuring the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) even when these symptoms are not visible.

Schematic diagram showing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and water exiting through a sweat gland.

1. Transepidermal water loss

2. Perspiration

3. Epidermis

4. Dermis