Learning to 'read' your skin type is very important so that you can use appropriate products, or leave aside some others that have a negative effect on our skin.

In fact, it is the first decisive step to be able to build our basic facial care steps. Although it may seem like a difficult task, it is actually easy to determine if your skin is calling for help.

There are 4 basic skin types: combination, dry, oily/dehydrated and normal, however in recent years there has been a need for 2 new - more general - categories to classify skin: sensitive and sensitized skin.

Although these skin types are 'new terminologies' so to speak, it creates a lot of confusion as many people believe that they fall under the sensitive type category. These two skin types are very similar since they show many similar symptoms, but they are not the same and here we tell you what the difference is.

Difference between sensitive and sensitized skin:

To begin with, sensitive skin has its own characteristics: chronic irritation, redness, pulling or itching with duration. On the other hand, sensitized skin is a temporary condition where its defenses are compromised by temporary causes. The above symptoms will last for a few days or as long as the cause that causes them (internal or external) lasts. Many skincare enthusiasts assume that having a bad reaction is the same as having sensitive skin, but the reality is that skin can become sensitized.

External factors that usually make our skin 'angry' are intense exposure to the sun without protection, very hot or cold water, consumption of highly processed foods, air pollutants or an inappropriate cosmetic product. The sensitization period is short and the balance in the skin's microbiome (its defenses) is restored...until the trigger appears again.

Internal changes, such as medication, autoimmune, intense emotional changes, (pre)menopause or an allergy are the most basic causes for our skin to become 'angry', i.e. sensitized. Recovery time is quite dependent, remember it's random.

How to take care of your skin in these cases.

If your skin is sensitized, the best way to deal with the symptoms is to immediately simplify your routine to the very basics. That is to avoid all products that are potentially aggressive with the skin such as exfoliants, peelings, toners with AHA soaps and facial masks. Also, if you are one of those who like skin tools: Dry brushing, gua sha, jade or cups, it would be good to stop for a few days or significantly reduce the pace and intensity until you find them again with your skin.

Tips and products that will make you find your skin again.

Gel cleanser without harsh chemicals. Maybe it's time to adopt a new generation cleanser that is gel and removes extra oil, sweat, etc. without irritating its ingredients. In general, know that soaps 'rinse' your skin more than it should, especially if you use them with hot water, and they expose the skin in depth. Pai's Phaze, although foaming, contains gentle ingredients that, as they cleanse, help the skin stay hydrated, soft and promise to not pull, even for the most sensitive skin.

A mist - tonic brings balance and calmness. It is not unnecessary, it is key to activate the normal function of the skin. It prepares the deeper layers of the skin to absorb the moisturizing ingredients. Dafna's Active Mist Facial Toner provides hydration, coolness and a sense of freshness with the unique combination of Melacare™ that simulates blemishes on the skin and reduces melanin production in cells. Its aroma is deeply healing. Ever since we put it in the fridge our skin has been asking for it again and again.

Serums are game changers. A suitable serum can provide calmness and rejuvenation in an instant. It works soothingly while transporting valuable ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin. Instant Kalmer Ceramides by Pai is enriched with Sea Aster to help bring zen to restless skin. It offers an immediate cooling effect for long-term freshness. The o-oils it contains will leave your skin feeling a velvety sensation that cannot be repeated.

Caution.Also, if you want to try something new, it is vital that you apply a small amount to understand your skin's reaction. Advise one especially if the symptoms are severe, if you are on any medication or the severe symptoms persist.