When you suffer from sensitive skin, we tend to only focus on the products we use on our face. However, what is just as important is being aware of what haircare products you use. If you have been diligently avoiding harsh ingredients in your cleansers and moisturisers, it might surprise you to learn that what is in your shampoo, conditioner, or styling products can also affect your skin. Haircare products can have a significant impact on sensitive skin, as many of them contain ingredients that may further irritate your condition or cause allergic reactions.
How Haircare Products Can Affect Sensitive Skin
Haircare products also come into contact with your skin, not just the scalp, but also the face, neck, and back. This can happen while rinsing in the shower, during workouts, or through residue left on pillowcases and towels. For those with sensitive or easily irritated skin, this contact may lead to discomfort such as dryness or visible flaking, particularly if the products contain harsh or drying ingredients.
Common examples include:
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Sulfates (like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or SLS): Used to create lather in shampoos, these surfactants can strip the scalp and skin of natural oils. For some people, this may contribute to dryness or irritation.
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Fragrance (Parfum): Synthetic fragrances can sometimes be sensitising. Because they are often listed as “fragrance” or “parfum,” it is hard to know what is actually in them.
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Silicones & Heavy Waxes: While these can smooth hair, they may clog pores when left on the skin, especially around the hairline or back.
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Preservatives such as Methylisothiazolinone: Often used to prevent bacteria growth in water-based products, these can be problematic for some skin types.
Why It Matters for Sensitive Skin Types
Even if your facial routine is perfectly tailored, reactivity can persist if your haircare routine contains ingredients that do not align with your skin’s needs.
Sensitive skin can be prone to:
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Redness or blotchiness
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Feelings of tightness
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Visible dryness or flakiness
If you notice these issues along your hairline, neck, or shoulders, it may be worth reviewing the ingredient lists on your haircare products. Being mindful of the products you use on your hair, just like those for your face, can be one way to support your skin’s natural balance.
Supporting Your Skin Beyond the Face
Here are a few practical tips to help reduce unwanted effects from haircare on sensitive skin:
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Rinse thoroughly: Leftover product on the skin or scalp can be irritating. Make sure you rinse your hair well and cleanse your skin after washing your hair.
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Clean your pillowcases regularly: Residue from hair products can transfer to your bedding. Washing your pillowcases often may help minimise unwanted contact.
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Apply skincare after washing your hair: This helps ensure your skincare products are the last layer on your skin, not your haircare products.
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Choose gentle haircare options: Look for products labelled “fragrance-free,” “soap-free,” or “suitable for sensitive skin” where possible. Always patch test new products.
A Holistic Approach to Sensitive Skin
At AMPERNA®, we believe in a holistic approach to skincare. That means considering all the factors that may affect your skin including your haircare routine.
For more tips on living with sensitive skin and maintaining a balanced skincare routine, explore the AMPERNA® blogs or reach out to us with your questions, we are here to help.
AMPERNA® Haircare launching soon!!
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