Sensitive skin: A relevant syndrome, be aware

Abstract

Sensitive skin is clinically defined by characteristic sensory perceptions including tightness, abnormal stinging, burning, tingling, pain and pruritus. Facial erythema may occur, and other body areas can be involved. Sensitive skin affects extremely the quality of life. According with the International Forum for the Study of Itch (IFSI), sensitive skin is defined as a syndrome. The unpleasant sensations described are in response to stimuli that normally should not provoke such sensations. Moreover, these unpleasant sensations cannot be explained by any skin disease. Sensitive skin is always considered when any new consumer health, cosmetic or household product is introduced in the market. Once sensitive skin is recognized, it is mandatory to identify specific triggers that commonly induce symptoms and even cutaneous visible signs. Sensitive skin syndrome can be exacerbated by an allergic setting and environmental factors (cold, hot, dryness, pollution, wind, chemicals..), a source of intolerance and unpleasant sensations. Cosmetics are the main triggering factors of sensitive skin according to patient’s reports. The presence of potentially irritant substances in their composition increases the clinical expression of symptoms. As sensitive skin is frequent, and it is increasing based on the current development of cosmetic use worldwide, there is a need to develop better skin care products. The continuous research of active and safe skin care products to prevent and treat sensitive skin is extremely welcome.