Top 4 year-round sensitive skin issues

(BPT) - Skin sensitivity has affected more than 70 percent of Americans at some point, according to a new survey by Nexcare Brand from 3M. While the problem affects people of every age, more than 65 percent of parents surveyed say they’re particularly worried about the sensitivity of their child’s skin. However, managing sensitive skin doesn’t have to be difficult.

Here are some simple tips and tricks to address four problem areas that can seriously irritate sensitive skin:

1. Sunburn

Sunburn isn’t good for anyone, which is why health care professionals recommend everyone wear sunscreen year-round whenever they spend time outdoors. From beaches to ski slopes, sun can be particularly damaging, but if you or your child has sensitive skin you may worry that some creams and sprays could lead to irritation that will be as uncomfortable as a sunburn. Still, foregoing sunscreen shouldn’t be an option; the risk of developing the most serious form of skin cancer doubles with five or more sunburns, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Talk to your dermatologist about which sunscreen is best for sensitive skin. Remember to look for options that provide broad UVA and UVB protection, with an SPF of 30 or greater.

2. Bandage irritations

Scrapes, bumps, scratches and bruises are often a by-product of outdoor fun year-round. Most people can probably slap on a bandage and go about their business, but if you have sensitive skin, the adhesives in many over-the-counter first aid products can cause skin irritation. Look for first aid products that are designed for sensitive skin, such as the Sensitive Skin collection by Nexcare Brand. These products are formulated to reliably stick to skin and are easy to remove. The product line includes first aid tape, adhesive pads and eye patches with hypoallergenic adhesive, adhere firmly yet remove cleanly and easily with minimal hair pulling. Visit www.nexcare.com/sensitiveskin to learn more.

3. Environmental irritants

Time outdoors means elevated exposure to a host of irritants, including chlorine and other pool chemicals, cleansers and even preservatives found on new clothing. Reduce the risk of having a reaction to chlorine by having children shower immediately after leaving the pool. The longer the chlorine remains on their skin, the greater the risk of a reaction. If irritation does occur, consult your dermatologist. He or she may prescribe a corticosteroid cream or an antihistamine to help manage redness, itching and irritation.

And while you may be eager to show off new attire before you’ve had a chance to wash it, always wash new clothing in an allergy-friendly laundry detergent before wearing. New clothing may be treated with preservative chemicals that can cause irritation.

4. Dryness

Dry skin can happen at any time of the year. Winter’s dry air can strip moisture from the skin, and heat in warm-weather months can cause dehydration that leads to dry skin.

To fight dry skin at any time of year, stay well-hydrated. Drink water, avoid long, hot showers or baths that can strip oil from the skin. Choose beauty and healthcare products that are designed to be gentle on sensitive skin.

Nearly half of the respondents in the Nexcare Brand survey said that a skin problem had prompted them to avoid certain activities, such as using a specific beauty product, eating or drinking certain things, wearing their favorite clothes, using particular blankets and linens or using first aid supplies. Having sensitive skin is irritating enough; a few precautions can help ensure sensitive skin doesn’t have to derail outdoor fun at any time of year.

The Nexcare Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research between May 1 and May 7, 2015.