How To Prevent Skin Irritation?

Lifestyle has a significant impact on skin health. To avoid skin irritation, the first thing to do is get enough sleep and avoid stress. Healthy eating and good hygiene practices are also essential.

Skin irritation is a very common problem that affects even people who do not have sensitive skin. It usually manifests as redness and dryness. However, some people also experience a slight itching and tightness sensation in the area.

The skin is a dynamic organ that can sometimes react to stimuli that previously had no effect. Cold, heat, humidity or the absence of humidity. That is why, on this occasion, we tell you what to do to prevent this problem. Take note!

Skin and irritation

The skin is the largest organ of the body and, according to a publication of the Health and Safety Executive (English) , it acts as an interface between the human body and the external environment. It is made up of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the hypodermis. All three work together to perform the functions of the skin, which are as follows:

• protection : it acts as a protective barrier against trauma, toxic agents, radiation and microorganisms, among others;
• sensation : the organ of the sense of touch;
• biosynthesis : with the help of sunlight, it transforms certain substances into vitamin D, for example;
• immunity : can induce immune responses;
• homeostasis : it balances the exchange of substances with the environment and helps regulate temperature.

A rash is called skin irritation if it is not specific. This means that it does not always have the same causes and does not always produce the same manifestations. In any case, clinical evidence indicates that basically it causes redness and inflammation and, rarely, itching. It should not be confused with an allergic reaction.

Main causes of skin irritation

There are many factors and agents that can cause skin irritation. Among the most common are the following:

• product toilet : some soaps or detergents cause skin irritation in sensitive people;
• cosmetics : they sometimes have the same effect as toiletries;
• sun : solar radiation irritates the skin and, when it damages it, it also makes it more sensitive to other irritants;
• sweat : the moisture generated by sweat can irritate the skin, especially if it is accompanied by a certain friction, as occurs in the feet with shoes;
• Textile materials or fabrics : Some synthetic fibers cause skin irritation in some people;
• xerosis : condition that makes the skin drier and weaker and therefore predisposes to irritation. It is also itchy, which leads to scratching and irritation of the skin;
• atopic dermatitis : this problem makes the skin more permeable to irritants;
• allergies : skin irritation is a common symptom of allergic reactions;
• chemical substances.

Measures to prevent skin irritation

It is essential to follow appropriate hygiene rules to avoid skin irritation. If you have delicate skin, it is best to use medicated or neutral soap. The same goes for shampoos, bath gels and the like. It is important that they are not abrasive and that they have low depilatory power.

Likewise, it is more convenient to take a shower rather than a bath. Drying your skin is just as important as bathing. Use a cotton towel and don’t rub your skin, but pat it dry instead. If necessary, use a hair dryer to remove any residual moisture.

Clothes that are too tight, especially if they are made of synthetic fabrics, are not suitable. It is best to wear loose clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton. It is also not good to suddenly switch from a hot environment to a cold one. A healthy diet and a good emotional state also help to keep the skin healthy.

Other measures are strongly recommended, especially if you suffer from frequent skin irritations. These measures are as follows:

• soothing and moisturizing mask : it is convenient to apply it twice a week. It is much better if it is made with natural products;
• deodorants and perfumes : they must be suitable for sensitive skin;
• thermal water : thermal water is very effective in combating skin irritation;
• use of sunscreen : it is essential; it is better if it is medicated.

When to consult a doctor ?

Although skin irritation is not a dangerous disease, special attention should be paid to some important symptoms. According to an article from the Mayo Clinic (in Spanish) , a doctor should be consulted in the following cases :

• the discomfort is such that it distracts you from your daily routine and prevents you from falling asleep;
• you are in pain;
• you suspect an infection;
• signs and symptoms persist even if you have taken self-care measures.

Finally, if you are using a product on your skin that could be causing this problem, it is best to stop using it and see if the situation improves. If so, the symptoms will most likely go away within a few days.