The cause of many cases of skin sensitivity might surprise you

We have noticed that many people are visiting us at DIV with complaints of increased skin sensitivity.

Want to hear a shocking truth?

You might actually be the cause, simply by overusing certain ingredients and products

DIV Dermatologist Dr Katherine Armour recently chatted with Mamamia’s Erin Docherty to break it down -

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First up, sensitive skin - Is it possible for your skincare routine to make your skin more sensitive?

100%! Symptoms and causes of sensitive skin obviously differ between individuals (underlying issues like eczema and such can trigger sensitive skin), skin experts are now noticing a lot of 'man-made' sensitivity going on.

The main culprits? Physical exfoliation, foaming cleansers and toners.

"We have become obsessed with exfoliation as if it is something that we need to do to avoid all the perceived evils that could befall our skin (dullness, dryness, congestion)," says Dr Armour.

this might be big news to a lot of people

"I believe physical exfoliants are completely unnecessary. They temporarily smooth the skin by removing the dead upper layer which will slough away on its own. In doing so, physical exfoliants, particularly if used too often, will disrupt the skin barrier, leading to irritation and sensitivity."

"In terms of harsh skincare, foaming cleansers and toners are the main culprits. When used over-zealously they too upset the epidermal barrier, stripping precious lipids and leading to 'man-made' skin sensitivity."

So what’s the best option moving forward?

"The main way to ensure a glowing complexion is by supporting your skin's precious barrier with nourishing moisturisers, B3 and B5 topically, and by targeting brown spots and pigmentation with appropriate cosmeceutical ingredients," she said.

Armour said chemical exfoliants (AHA’s and BHA’s) are appropriate in those without sensitive skin to smooth and decongest, but these kinds of ingredients are to be used with care (one to two products a day, maximum).

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This article was adapted from an article originally published by Mamamia - https://www.mamamia.com.au/man-made-sensitivity-causes-behind-sensitive-skin/

Skincare 101: Summer

The Australian Summer has started with a warm and particularly sunny bang. and as We’ve mentioned before, Australian people in general endure more sun-related skin problems when compared with our northern hemisphere counterparts.

We’ve already mentioned in previous posts but let’s revisit it - Australian people in general endure more sun-related skin problems when compared with their northern hemisphere-counterparts.

PREVENTION IS ALWAYS BETTER THAN A CURE, SO HERE ARE OUR 6 TOP TIPS FOR SUMMER SKINCARE!

1. Lighten up your skin-care routine.

If you’re feeling a little too snug to wear extra layers throughout the summer season, your skin is probably feeling the same. Summer is the time to seek more lightweight skincare options (of course, everyone is different and if that heavier cream isn’t causing you any issues, keep it up!) 

Don’t however forgo your moisturising regime entirely. You may feel, with the added humidity or sweat that your skin is being nourished naturally. That unfortunately is not the case. Further, if you’re a city-dweller, it may prove more problematic with pollen, chemicals and other pollutants sticking more easily to your skin. 

The best course of action is to use a lighter cleanser and find a light moisturiser and SPF product for daywear. 

2. Invest in a solid vitamin C serum. 

Vitamin C is great year-round, but all the more important in the summer. Vitamin C helps prevent hyperpigmentation, improve the appearance of fine lines, and can help with collagen production. Layer a few drops on your skin between cleansing and moisturizer.

3. Add an exfoliation skin-care step.

Now pay attention here – we’re talking chemical exfoliants, not physical. And as always, this depends on your skin-type! If you have oily or photodamaged skin, you may find that exfoliating a little more in the summer is of benefit. However, if you’re more on the dry (or sensitive/combination)-side, we suggest (with few exceptions) that exfoliants are just not for you. 

Bear in mind, the worst thing you can do for your skin is to jump on a new product or skin-care program abruptly; your skin needs time to adapt - just as the seasons allow it to adapt as temperature and humidity gradually increase or decrease depending on where you live. 

If you’re unsure as to what is appropriate for you skin, your dermatologist or else dermal clinician will be happy to help you. 

4. Cut down your tub time 

Don’t hate us, but we must once again advise against your long hot shower or bath. Over-showering, or showering in water that is too hot, can lead to over-drying your skin, and irritate sensitive skin and exacerbate diseases like rosacea and eczema.

5. Make sure all your makeup is non-comedogenic.

Take a close look at your makeup product labels and only keep those that are non-comedogenic. That's a fancy word for a product formulated without pore-clogging ingredients. This is super important through the warm months. 

6. Stay in the shade.

Australia is, innately, the sun-burnt country. We implore you not to sunbake. Shade and daily SPF topicals are your best friends!

We don’t want to ruin your summer entirely but keeping an eye on the amount of time you are in the sun, ensuring you are topping up on sunscreen and staying shaded where you can is honestly the best thing you can do for your skin for long term skin health.

A compromise that works well in Australia is visiting the beach, the pool or otherwise lounging outside can be done once the sun is starting to set in the evening. The heat remains, but the damaging rays are starting to diminish.

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NEED NEW SKINCARE?

Our sister company has just launched a brand new store at Westfield Doncaster, in addition to their flagship store below div in south yarra.

If you need a skincare top up, they’ll certainly be happy to help you out