How to Use Organic Skincare for Sensitive Skin

Ultra sensitive skin is the reason I embarked on the Franchine Young skincare journey. When I reached menopause, a nasty rash appeared over much of my face. It was painful and unsightly, and I became very self-conscious. My quest to cure this rash led to my Wonder Balm, and I’ve never looked back! My hormonal rash is an extreme example, but organic skincare for sensitive skin is something that I am passionate about, and want to help others who are dealing with it. Whether you suffer from skin that is blotchy, itchy, flakey, red or angry, this article is for you.  

What is sensitive skin? 

 My definition of sensitive skin is linked to inflammation and reaction. For whatever reason, the nerve endings on the outer layer of the skin become irritated. How this presents itself will differ from person to person. It may be mild, for example, skin that’s just a little itchy or dry. Alternatively, it could be a full-blown inflammation such as my facial rash. It’s important to realise that in most cases, the problem does not ultimately lie with the skin; it is a symptom. So, you need to go looking for the root cause. I like to use the analogy of a plant – if the leaves start to go yellow you won’t assume the leaves are the problem. You’ll start asking yourself if you’ve over-watered the plant, not watered it enough, if something is wrong with the soil, etc. Our skin is no different – seek out the systemic problem and be sure to treat it. Then use organic skincare for sensitive skin to help care for the symptoms.  

What causes sensitive skin? 

 As I’ve already shared with you, one of the causes can be hormonal. This is probably one of the more complicated causes as it is not an overnight fix. If you believe hormones are causing skin sensitivities, then please seek medical advice. Other causes may include: 

• Serious underlying skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, psoriasis 
• Pollution – cigarette smoke, CO2
• Weather/ the elements – heat, sun, wind, cold 
• Lifestyle – stress, poor sleep, exercise (sweating) 
• Diet – food allergies, intolerances, alcohol 
• Chemicals – by this, I don’t mean nasty toxins from a laboratory (although they are also a valid point!) – but more so the common, everyday chemicals like washing detergent, perfume, clothes dye, food processing, skincare (not Franchine Young!) etc. 
• Ageing – as we become older and our skin thins out, it can be more susceptible to irritation. 

Is organic skincare good for sensitive skin? 

 In my mind, when it comes to caring for symptoms, specifically organic skincare for sensitive skin is the best approach. We absorb enough chemicals, additives, toxins and general nasties day-to-day as it is; why add skincare to the list as well? I am not saying non-organic products are necessarily bad for your skin; I just personally like to give my body a break whenever it can get one! Looking after my skin with pure, natural, organic ingredients empowers my self-care; it allows me to say no to things I don’t want on or in my body. I have a profound respect for Mother Nature and her bounty. I believe that everything she offers naturally delivers more than ample power and potency for my needs. And when it comes to sensitive skin, in particular, I feel strongly that less is more.  

How to treat sensitive skin: Avoid these 4 common mistakes 

 We’ve all made mistakes when it comes to treating our skin! I by no means can sit on a pedestal and say my approach has been flawless. But, we learn! Some of the more common mistakes in treating sensitive skin include:  

1. Tap water

Have you ever travelled from home and noticed that the water elsewhere is too hard, soft, smells different, and so on? Very few of us are privileged enough to have pure, unadulterated mountain water flow through our taps! If your skin is particularly sensitive, avoid treated water from taps and invest in a quality filtering system when washing your face. On the other hand, if the skin on your body is sensitive, filtered water may not be either practical or affordable. In that case, limit shower time and keep the hot water tap low (see below).    

2. Really hot water 

It’s common sense, right? You’re not going to put a heat pack on a burn, so don’t treat sensitive skin with hot water as this can flare up the problem. I would encourage you to consider cold water instead – even during winter. This can have remarkable benefits not just for your skin but your immune system and your mental outlook.  

3. Panicking

Don’t try and fix the problem by throwing every possible solution at it. A different face mask every day, radical diet changes and applying every new supposed miraculous lotion and potion is likely to just lead to more upsets as the body tries dealing with the fact it’s essentially being treated as a guinea pig!  Instead, take it slowly, calmly and rationally. If anything, pare it back and take ‘less is more’ approach (I’m a big believer in this for life in general!)  

4. Rapid changes 

This, to a degree, ties in with the previous point. Avoid making sweeping and sudden lifestyle changes to quell this problem. Sometimes radical changes can unsettle us emotionally, which is never good for the immune system.  

• Using products with harsh chemicals
• Using too many products

Natural skincare routine for sensitive skin

When it comes to organic skincare for sensitive skin, I recommend Franchine Young’s Mother Nature’s Method as the very best organic skincare for sensitive skin.  

How to cleanse sensitive skin

 You may love that squeaky-clean feeling that comes from a foamy cleanser however the best organic skincare for sensitive skin will contain minimal ingredients, usually creamy or oil based.  Look for products that have fewer ingredients and steer away from those that are filled with harsh chemicals. Franchine Young Ireland use minimal ingredients in our oil based, organic cleanser for sensitive skin. We have included ingredients such as Shea butter, cocoa butter, rapeseed oil – known for soothing the skin whilst relying on the gentle ‘oil cleansing method’ for gentle but highly effective cleansing.  

How to moisturise sensitive skin

 Most people with sensitive skin need a protective layer to re-hydrate the skin after cleansing. Look for products that are free from fragrance and harsh chemicals. Franchine Young Wonderbalm is a super gentle organic moisturiser for sensitive skin.  Apply sparingly and NEVER by dragging the skin. The best method for sensitive skin is to melt a small amount in clean hands, and gently pat over face and neck. The best organic skincare for sensitive skin will contain ingredients you know and understand, FYI recommend a minimalist skincare routine is best for people with sensitive skin. I really hope this helps you on your journey to organic skincare for sensitive skin.  If you are frustrated, confused or anxious about caring for your skin, why not contact me? I would love to hear from you and to chat about how else Franchine Young might be of help to you.

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