What is a common characteristic of sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is characterized by its tendency to react adversely to various stimuli, leading to symptoms such as redness, irritation, or discomfort. This hypersensitivity can be triggered by factors such as environmental changes, certain skincare products, or even stress. Individuals with sensitive skin often experience a heightened response to products that are normally well-tolerated by others, making them aware of sensations like itching, burning, or stinging.

While some types of skin, when oily, may occasionally exhibit sensitivity, always appearing oily and shiny does not classify the skin as sensitive. Similarly, feelings of tightness or tautness can occur in several skin types, particularly those that are dehydrated or dry, but this alone does not define sensitive skin. Lastly, the notion that sensitive skin is immune to allergic reactions is misleading, as sensitivity often enhances the likelihood of such reactions. Therefore, the hallmark of sensitive skin lies in its tendency to react with redness and discomfort, making the identification of this characteristic essential in esthetics practice.