4 Ways to Be Gentle to Sensitive Skin and Prevent Irritation

The biggest question for those with sensitive skin? How to prevent skin irritation. Below, we’ll provide our four best tips for keeping your sensitive skin healthy, happy, and irritation-free.
People with sensitive skin are often among the most conscientious when it comes to skincare. Why? Because they have to be! Even a minor mistake can lead to uncomfortable—and sometimes painful—irritation, flare-ups, or breakouts. A small misstep can mean weeks or months of trying to repair the damage. For this reason, patch testing, label reading, and thorough research are essential practices for anyone with sensitive skin.
That said, we know there’s always room for improvement, and for those of you with sensitive skin, we want to take it a step further. In this guide, we’re sharing four additional ways you can be extra gentle with your delicate skin to prevent irritation.

1. Be Aware of Environmental Extremes

Why it matters: You’re probably already using sunscreen to shield your skin from the sun’s potent rays, but environmental factors like heat, cold, and wind can also weaken the sensitive skin.

Understanding the impact:
Environmental extremes—whether it’s intense sun, biting cold, or high winds—can make life challenging for sensitive skin. Sunscreen helps to some degree, but these additional elements need to be taken into consideration, too. Cold weather dries out the skin, making it prone to cracking and irritation, while the heat can increase oil production and cause sweat, which can clog pores. Wind, on the other hand, can strip the skin of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it exposed and vulnerable.
But what if outdoor activities are an essential part of your work or hobbies? How do you protect your skin while still enjoying your time outside?

Practical tips:
Layer up: Use a scarf or a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face from the wind and cold. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics that won’t irritate the skin.
Hydrate: In extreme heat or cold, hydration is crucial. Not just water intake, but also applying a rich, hydrating moisturizer like NEWLOOK 24HR RICH MOISTURIZER will help to maintain your skin’s natural barrier.
Use antioxidants: Products rich in antioxidants like vitamin C of  NEWLOOK VITAMIN C SERUM can help combat environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays.

2. Don’t Rely on Cleansing Wipes

Why it matters: Cleansing wipes are convenient, but they aren’t doing your sensitive skin any favours in the long run.

The problem with wipes: Cleansing wipes are often seen as a quick, convenient solution for removing makeup and dirt, especially when you’re on the go or too tired for a full skincare routine. However, wipes can leave behind residue, strip your skin of essential oils, and cause friction, which may lead to irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Many wipes are also packed with preservatives, fragrances, and alcohol, which can be harsh and drying.
For those with sensitive skin, using wipes as a regular skincare practice may do more harm than good. It’s important to stick to a proper cleansing routine that actually cares for your skin, rather than cutting corners.

Practical tips:
Use a gentle cleanser: Opt for a cream based cleanser ( NEWLOOK CLEANSING MILK OR NEWLOOK GOLD CLEANSING MILK) that is free of sulfate.
Double cleanse/ Foam Based Cleanser (if needed): If you wear makeup or sunscreen, a double cleanse can ensure that all impurities are removed without relying on harsh wipes. The first cleanse should focus on removing makeup, while the second cleanse can deep clean the skin. The foam based cleanser which can help to clean deep into the skin & removing all residue (NEWLOOK CLEAN IT ZERO)
Toner : Always use toner right away after cleansing as it helps to minimize pores and reduce any sensitivity in skin (LOVEWARMTH ESSENCE TONER)   
Moisturize right away: Always follow your cleansing and toning  routine with a hydrating moisturizer (NEWLOOK SNAIL MOISTURIZER)  to replenish any moisture lost during the process.

3. Patch Test Everything

Why it matters: Even the best products can irritate sensitive skin if they contain ingredients that trigger a reaction. Patch testing is your best defence against an adverse reaction before introducing a new product into your routine.

The benefits of patch testing:
Patch testing is crucial for anyone with sensitive skin because it allows you to test a product on a small area before applying it to your entire face. This step can help you avoid redness, itching, or breakouts that might occur from using a new formula.
Many people skip this step because it feels tedious, but it’s a necessary precaution. By patch testing, you can pinpoint any irritants before they have the chance to wreak havoc on your skin.

How to do it properly:
Choose a small area: The inside of your forearm or behind your ear is a good spot to test a product, as these areas are sensitive enough to mimic how your face might react.
Wait 24–48 hours: Apply a small amount of the product to your chosen area and wait at least 24–48 hours to see if any redness, itching, or irritation occurs.
Gradually introduce new products: Even if the patch test is successful, introduce new products slowly into your routine. Start by using them once or twice a week before increasing usage to daily.( For More details see the blog of How To Do Patch Testing) 

4. Simplify Your Skincare Routine

Why it matters: More isn’t always better when it comes to skincare, especially for sensitive skin.

Less is more: For many of us, it’s tempting to want to use all the latest and greatest skincare products. However, for those with sensitive skin, a complicated routine can cause more harm than good. The more products you use, the more likely it is that one of them will trigger an irritation or breakout.
Instead of piling on multiple serums, toners, and treatments, focus on creating a simplified routine that focuses on hydration, barrier repair, and sun protection.

Practical tips:

Stick to the basics: Cleanser, Serum, Toner, Moisturizer, and Sunscreen are the cornerstones of any good skincare routine. Choose products that are gentle to your skin.  ( See the Daily skin Care Blog for Sensitive Skin) 
Monitor product interactions: Be mindful of how different products might interact. For example, using multiple exfoliants or harsh active ingredients at the same time can compromise your skin barrier and lead to increased sensitivity.

Conclusion. 
Caring for sensitive skin requires diligence and patience, but by following these five tips, you can help protect your skin from irritation and flare-ups. Remember, the key is to be proactive—whether that means layering up to protect against environmental stressors, avoiding common irritants, or sticking to a simplified routine. With the right approach, you can keep your sensitive skin calm, clear, and comfortable.