Environment, genetics may affect sensitive skin

Care of the skin depends on what is causing the reaction.
SCRIPPS HOWARD NEWS SERVICE
Sensitive skin knows no age or skin type, and skin can be sensitive either all of the time or just on occasion. You may get red, irritated, dry or itchy, and this can be caused by a skin-care product, the environment or stress, as well as genetics.
If you have sensitive skin, look for products that are fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested. And if you're not sure if your skin is sensitive, ask yourself these questions:
Do you flush, blush, itch or sunburn easily?
Does your skin react when you wear wool or cashmere or come in contact with latex?
Does your skin react immediately to certain foods, skin-care products or stressors?
A yes to the first two questions means you likely have truly sensitive skin, which needs to be managed on a daily basis. A yes to the last one and you have sensitivity triggers. Avoiding these triggers can keep your sensitive skin from flaring up.
Skin that is sensitive by nature has most likely been that way since birth. Fair skin most commonly blushes, itches, sunburns and gets irritated quickly. While there are many skin-care products designed to calm and protect sensitive skin, there are cautions when it comes to products designed to target other skin problems.
Check products
When it comes to anti-aging products, retinoids, topical vitamin C and glycolic acid can be too harsh for sensitive skin. Instead, opt for products that contain alpha lipoic acid, idebenone, vitamin E, resveratrol and peptides.
When exfoliating, look for enzyme-based masks or gentle peels, and be sure to patch test. Also, don't use a product more often than is directed or leave it on the skin for longer than recommended.
Daily sun protection is essential, but many of the chemicals found in sunscreens can irritate sensitive skin. Non-chemical barriers in the form of mineral-based protection like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are a better alternative.
Hydroquinone is considered the most effective active ingredient for lightening sun spots and melasma, but it can cause dryness, burning and even darkening of sensitive skin. Instead, use lighteners with active ingredients like kojic and azelaic acid.
Sensitive by trigger
You may not have been born with sensitive skin, but if your skin suddenly becomes red, itchy, irritated or scaly, the best solution is to uncover the cause.
Hormones can cause sensitivity changes, especially during pregnancy, menopause, or after a change in hormone-based contraception or hormone replacement therapy. Skin reactions due to hormones often appear gradually.
Certain medications including antibiotics and antihistamines can also cause sensitivity, ranging from itching, hives, rashes or a yellowing of the skin that appears suddenly. In these cases, it's advised that you contact your physician immediately.
Food is culprit
Foods can trigger sensitivity such as rashes or redness that appears shortly after consumption and that may linger for a period of time. The best solution is to identify the trigger food and avoid it.
Allergies are also a common trigger for sensitivity. The same things that can cause respiratory and sinus problems -- like pollen, dust and chemicals -- can also trigger skin problems like redness, burning and irritation.
In some cases, a change in water supply can exacerbate sensitive skin. No-rinse cleansers, toners and specialized skin-care products may be the most appropriate solution.
And last, stress -- both good and bad -- can affect even the most tolerant skin. Blemishes, dehydration, irritation and pigment changes can all result from a lack of sleep, anxiety, depression or just daily stress.