IF you have sensitive skin or eczema, this is around that time of year when you should start changing the products you use because atmospheric pollen pollution is very high.
“The predominant pollen in the Philippines is the grass pollen, followed by Mimosa, Moraceae, Cyperaceae, lower vascular plants spores, Amaranth, Coconut, Tiliaceae, Pinus, Compositae and Alnus [in decreasing order of significance]. The atmospheric pollen pollution in Quezon City is heavy in November, December and January; in Los Baños during January, February, March, April, June and November; and in Baguio City during February, March, April and May,” detailed a 1978 study, titled “Studies on atmospheric pollens in the Philippines,” by F Cua-Lim, P C Payawal, and G Laserna.
Particles in the air can cause airborne contact dermatitis, with symptoms that include red welts or hives. These welts aren’t only itchy but also painful when they become very swollen.
Dry skin with a damaged barrier is more prone to allergies and irritations. Your skin’s barrier is the outermost layer of your skin. It can be damaged by the sun, strong winds, alkaline soaps, stress, and even harsh skin-care products. A damaged barrier means your skin will become dehydrated and more prone to fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin’s barrier is also slightly acidic and this is what helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi that could damage your skin and cause infections.
The symptoms of a damaged barrier are dry and scaly skin; itchiness, rough patches, acne, sensitive or inflamed areas, and bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections.
The skin’s acid mantle has a pH of 4.7 but the pH of some skin products can range from 3.7 to 8.2.
This is why dermatologists and aestheticians warn you against using harsh soaps and other products with extremely exfoliating ingredients on your face. Experts recommend cleansing with a product that has a pH between 4.0 and 5.0.
I know that many people have multi-step skin-care routines but if you have sensitive skin, you need to look at the ingredients of the products that you use. Look for products that have ceramides, waxy lipids that are crucial in making sure your skin’s barrier functions properly.
There was a time when I needed to order whatever lotions and creams I needed from the US.
Now, I get many of my skin-care items from Shopee because they really have a comprehensive selection of moisturizers and hydrators for the face and body. I love how Shopee has brands which aren’t usually available from brick-and-mortar stores. I also love how there are discounts and special deals such as free shipping during sales so I usually wait for those offers before making a purchase.
Aveeno was one of the first products I have ever used for sensitive skin. Aveeno Baby Daily Wash & Shampoo is a staple in my bathroom cabinet. I would even highly recommend this to friends with babies and toddlers. What I like about this wash is that it has a non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly and moisturizes for a full 24 hours.
Now, what does a “full 24 hours” mean? It means that the wash leaves a non-greasy film of moisture on your skin even if you wash again.
One of the first specialized lotions I ever used, Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion has the brand’s Active Naturals Triple Oat Complex with oat oil and natural shea butter, so it’s perfect for skin that’s very dry and sensitive. It’s also fragrance-free, steroid-free, and gentle.
For days when my skin is extra dry and sensitive, my go-to is Aveeno Dermexa Daily Emollient Cream. It has avenanthramides, which is naturally found in oats, and ceramides, which strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. I use this to spot treat rashes and hives.
For the face, I normally go for a hydrator with hyaluronic acid like Neutrogena’s very popular Hydro Boost Water Gel, which has undergone a packaging and formulation upgrade. The new formula consists of hyaluronic acid, amino acids and electrolytes. For more serious moisturizing, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Nourishing Cream is a rich and soothing nourishing cream with Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) complex to strengthen the skin’s barrier.
Image credits: JULIANA MAXINE C. VASQUEZ