The skin is our largest organ and forms our “protective shield” to the outside world. It protects us from influences such as UV radiation, weather conditions, pollutants and germs. However, it also reveals malfunctions on the inside, e.g. a lack of moisture, hormone fluctuations, an incorrect or unbalanced diet, but also psychological problems.
It is not said for nothing that the skin is the mirror of our soul. We feel very comfortable in healthy and supple skin; if there are changes or irritations, we react very quickly with discomfort.
What exactly are skin irritations?
According to Rietbrock (N.Rietbrock/B.Keller-Stanislawski/B.Woodcock – Die Haut als Transportorgan für Arzneistoffe, 1990, p.30), these are defined as “immunologically induced intolerance reactions to external influences”, which “can occur in various forms, e.g. in burning, itching or unpleasant sensations, redness or in long-lasting manifestations in the form of e.g. eczema or blisters, but acne-like changes caused by medication can also be included”. There are therefore very extensive forms of skin irritation, some of which we will now discuss in more detail:
Irritation on the scalp
Itchy, dry, flaky and reddened scalps– almost everyone has suffered from this at some point. This is particularly encouraged in cooler temperatures, as our scalp is a very sensitive area of the body. According to gesundheit.de, symptoms can occur “if the processes taking place in the scalp are disturbed. Triggers are often external influences such as the sun, cold or hot blow-drying. However, illnesses, hormonal changes, medication or the wrong ingredients can also be the cause”.
We often react by scratching, but this brings inflammation-stimulating bacteria to the scalp. And it is precisely these that cause additional itching. This is one of the most common accompanying symptoms of skin irritation. It is therefore crucial to use products that effectively suppress the germs that cause itching, provide the necessary moisture and have a calming effect. These include, for example, the skinicer Sedative Shampoo.
Skin irritation in the facial area
Is the skin on your face tight, red or flaky? This quickly becomes particularly visible on the face. The causes include a disturbed skin barrier or inflammation; a reaction to the external influences already mentioned. There is also a lack of fats (lipids) and/or moisture. If the skin produces too little oil on its own, it is crucial to provide the skin with sufficient protection and care through appropriate skin care.
Sometimes it is the skin care habits that need to be changed or the selection of other skin care products, drinking more and eating a more balanced diet that can improve the condition of the skin. However, in the case of long-term skin problems, an expert should be consulted to find out the exact causes. This is because skin diseases such as neurodermatitis or psoriasis can also be a cause.
Irritated skin after hair removal
Razor burn is also considered an irritation of the skin. This is because external influences, i.e. hair removal, also promote irritation such as itching, redness or even pimple formation. These symptoms are also known as razor burn or razor bumps.
Men and women are equally affected by this, albeit on different areas of the body, depending on their shaving preference. The main cause is often the incorrect use of hair removal products, aids or the final care. This applies in particular to sensitive skin.
If bacteria penetrate the exit point of the hair follicle during hair removal, bacterial inflammation is the result. Therefore, antibacterial care should always be applied immediately after hair removal, such as the skinicer Repair After Shave Balm. This also moisturizes, soothes and regenerates the skin barrier – for beautiful, smooth skin.
Conclusion:
Fortunately, in most cases it is easy to counteract skin irritation yourself. In some cases, such as hair removal, it can even be prevented with the right care. Otherwise, simple changes to your own routines, home remedies or the right skin care products can help. It is always important to know the cause.
If you liked our article on skin irritations, you can find more tips and information in our expert tips or contact our team of experts by phone or e-mail.
Image source: YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV/shutterstock.com
Experten-Tipp entstand in Zusammenarbeit mit:
Patrick Günther
Patrick Günther completed his pharmacy studies in Hamburg and, after obtaining his licence to practise, worked for several years in marketing and sales in the pharmaceutical industry. In 2003, he took over ocean pharma, the company founded by his father in Reinbek near Hamburg in 1978. Together with his business partner, he patented the important processing and standardisation process for the microalgae active ingredient Spiralin® and developed a wide range of medical cosmetics and foot care products based on Spiralin®.
