When you have sensitive skin, what you put on your body matters. Selecting the wrong product could cause irritation, inflammation, discomfort, and other skin problems. While most might assume this only applies to skincare products like cleansers, exfoliants, soaps, and lotions, those with sensitive skin must also be mindful of the hair care products they use. With so many options available today, narrowing down your options, and making an informed decision is often challenging. Worry no more as this mini guide will provide you with the basics to choosing hair care products for sensitive skin.
Getting to The Root of Your Sensitive Skin
Do you know the root cause of your skin irritation? Before purchasing personal care products, it’s important to identify what causes your flare ups, breakouts, swelling, and pain. Someone with sensitive skin can have reactions to a plethora of ingredients found in hair care products like sulfates, fragrances, and alcohol, and the reactions can range from mild itching to severe dermatitis. That’s why it’s important to do your due diligence, and schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or allergy specialist.
If you’re unsure of what causes your skin irritation, but need to purchase hair care products, it is best to select brands that offer products designed for sensitive skin. These products are free from harsh ingredients and often have soothing additions like chamomile or aloe vera, enabling you to find a balance between eliminating key culprits and enhancing your use of nourishing ingredients.
As you browse hair care product brands, it’s also essential to remember that less is more. There are simple steps to revitalize your hair. Review product labels and opt for those with fewer ingredients and more natural elements. That way you can protect your skin and scalp while providing your hair with the fuel it needs to remain healthy.
Common Ingredients To Avoid Using
The most efficient way to maintain healthy hair and a calm scalp is to steer clear of ingredients that can be common irritants. Sulfates, for instance, are common ingredients in most shampoos and conditioners. While it does create a richer lather that can remove dirt and oils more effectively, sulfates can strip the natural oils from your scalp causing dryness and irritation.
Parabens are another ingredient found in hair care products that do more harm than good. They are used as preservatives, but can also lead to skin irritation and other health problems. On the other hand, artificial fragrances and colors provide no benefit to your hair and rank high on the list of irritants for those with sensitive skin.
Read the labels to ensure that the products you’re considering don’t contain the above ingredients. Check for beneficial ingredients like decyl glucoside, sodium benzoate, and vitamin E. These are natural cleansing agents and preservatives that promote healthy hair and skin.
Non-Comedogenic Hair Care Products: A Plus for Sensitive Skin
Whether you struggle with sensitive skin or you simply want to avoid harsh chemicals, non-comedogenic hair products will be your best option. Such products don’t block pores, preventing scalp acne and similar problems. Essentially, non-comedogenic products are designed to provide what your hair needs without compromising your skin.
Unlike many styling products, non-comedogenic brands don’t contain silicone, heavy waxes, and mineral oil, which can create a film on the scalp that blocks your pores. They instead allow your scalp to breathe so it can maintain its natural balance.
Using non-comedogenic hair care products are not only beneficial for reducing skin irritation and clogged pores, it’s also ideal for enhancing your overall scalp health. When your scalp is healthy, it promotes healthier hair growth. Ultimately, your scalp feels good, your hair looks amazing, and your confidence goes through the roof.
Testing Hair Care Products for Sensitive Skin
While visiting a dermatologist or allergy specialist is ideal to determine the cause of your sensitive skin, there are other ways to test products. Prior to using a new product in your hair routine, you should test them to ensure they won’t cause irritation. Once you’ve found a product you’re interested in (preferably one that adheres to the guidelines listed above), add a small amount to an area of your scalp.
Be sure to test in an area that’s hidden like the back of your neck. After 24-48 hours analyze the area to see if you notice any negative reactions. If you notice any bumps, dryness, redness, swelling, or irritation, it is best to stop using the product. However, if there isn’t a negative reaction, chances are you can add your new hair care product to your routine.
Everyone desires a head of beautiful and healthy hair.However, when you struggle with sensitive skin, finding something that’s high-quality, safe, and effective, can be challenging. By identifying the root cause of your sensitive skin, avoiding common irritants, opting for safer choices like non-comedogenic products, and testing the product, you should be able to find a brand that works best for you.
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