Posted on September 02, 2019
The arrival of spring generally means a few things: we like to think bidding farewell to dry, dull, itchy winter skin. The reality can sometimes look a bit different. Even with warmer days, more moisture in the air, and a break from harsh indoor heating, skin can start to feel prickly just as the flowers begin to pop.
Seasonal shifts are never easy on skin, and the transition from the barren winter months to the pollen-packed ones can be irritating. Seasonal allergies, asthma, and eczema are a triad of conditions that some individuals experience together, What’s more, your go-to antihistamine can dry out your face and extra pollen in the air can trigger an allergic reaction and make skin more sensitive, even puffy. We are more likely to get rashes or irritation from products and ingredients that normally wouldn’t cause a reaction when skin is struggling with this immune system response. In other words, when irritation comes from multiple angles—whether it’s from allergies, over-cleansing, or exfoliating acids—it can push our immune systems into overdrive, weaken the skin barrier (its protective outer layer), and lead to red, irritated, itchy skin.
The first step towards recovery: find out what caused your inflammation and try to remove it. Were you on a recent trip and exposed to harsh wind or sunburn? Was it an exceptionally stressful few weeks? Did you start a new skincare product? These are some of the most common factors. Next, work your way towards a calmer complexion with our skin-soothing guide, below.
When skin is sensitised, even washing your face can be unpleasant. But that doesn’t mean you should skip your cleanse, especially while everything is in bloom. Allergens can stick to everything—so if you’re experiencing a reaction, shower and wash your hair before bed so you don’t end up sleeping with them.Swap bar soaps and cleansers that make skin feel tight with hydrating washes rich in soothing antioxidants (think green and white teas) and humectants such as aloe vera—all of which are found in the Magnesium + White Tea Wash. Also opt for warm, not hot, water. “Frequently exposing your skin to hot water strips the natural oils that protect it.
Analysing your products to eliminate sensitising ingredients is the first line of defense,Mattioli explains. When we see clients have a rosy hue on cheeks and their skin feels warm or tender to the touch, we recommend a routine change by cutting irritants. Common culprits include retinols, leave-on acids, chemical sunscreens, artificial fragrance, alcohol-based products, and prescription-strength acne cream. Instead, stick with a simpler (and all-around cleaner) regimen consisting of a gentle cleanser, face oil, and mineral-based sunscreen. Also look for products with ingredients high in nourishing essential fatty acids (sesame, chia, and hemp seed oil are good examples), like Undaria Algae Oil, which also contains potent soothers like linseed oil and acai . Fatty acids occur naturally in skin’s outer layer, and studies show that applying them topically can help restore a compromised skin barrier. Foods such as nuts, seeds, grains, pumpkin, fish, and sweet potatoes all contain fatty acids that can help irritated skin.
If your irritation extends beyond your face, retreat to the bath. Research has shown that bathing in magnesium-rich dead sea salts can lessen inflammation, increase hydration, and strengthen skin barrier. Magnesium has also been shown to reduce stress and cortisol levels (the root of many skin conditions). Add a generous amount to a warm bath and a few drops of your favourite oil to elevate the self-care element.
Seasonal must have products:
May Lindstrom's Blue Cocoon - this balmy blue enchantress greets your skin with cool serenity, melting on touch to a fluid potion that tenderly envelopes you in the most decadent azule calm.
Mystical blue tansy (Blue Chamomile) eases feelings of emotional anxiety while releasing heat and providing nourishing hydration and relief to even the most delicate and troubled skin conditions.
MV Organics - Award winning Cream Cleaner - Gaining ‘cult’ status around the world, this luxe cleanser removes all traces of make-up and grime without stripping and works miracles on congested skin. Silky-smooth and deliciously scented, this unique moisturising cleanser is perfect for all skins including even the most sensitive
Camelina Chamomille Serum Concentrate – Sensitive Skin - Soothing & calming serum formulated to help even the most sensitive skin, restoring suppleness and skin’s strength. Incredibly anti-inflammatory, Camelina oil helps to calm and condition irritated & reactive skin. Camelina is also known to help treat eczema. With tremendous skin healing proper ties, gentle Chamomile pairs with Calendula to further assist in soothing skin and minimizing redness.
Dont leave home without! - ULTRA MOISTURE ROSE FACIAL MIST - Tone, moisturise and soften with this light hydrating mist of rose essential oil, nourishing aloe leaf and calming witch hazel. A refreshing spray to balance the complexion and support skin absorption of serums and moisturisers. Suitable for fatigued, dry or congested skin.
German (Blue) chamomile
Blue chamomile has a long history of use which dates all the way back to the ancient Egyptians and ancient Greece. In the past this wonderful plant was used for alleviating various symptoms, among them abdominal pain, sore throat, acne, eczema caused by skin rashes, insomnia, psoriasis and nappy rash.
Calms, moisturises and restores
Blue chamomile is rich in vitamin B which accelerates the renegeration of skin tissue and calms and moisturises sensitive skin. This 100% pure and natural German, also known as blue, chamomile essential oil is made from the most beautiful heads of chamomile flowers and contains agents beneficial for restoring irritated skin.
Why itchy skin happens
Seasonal shifts are never easy on skin, and the transition from the barren winter months to the pollen-packed ones can be irritating. Seasonal allergies, asthma, and eczema are a triad of conditions that some individuals experience together, What’s more, your go-to antihistamine can dry out your face and extra pollen in the air can trigger an allergic reaction and make skin more sensitive, even puffy. We are more likely to get rashes or irritation from products and ingredients that normally wouldn’t cause a reaction when skin is struggling with this immune system response. In other words, when irritation comes from multiple angles—whether it’s from allergies, over-cleansing, or exfoliating acids—it can push our immune systems into overdrive, weaken the skin barrier (its protective outer layer), and lead to red, irritated, itchy skin.
The first step towards recovery: find out what caused your inflammation and try to remove it. Were you on a recent trip and exposed to harsh wind or sunburn? Was it an exceptionally stressful few weeks? Did you start a new skincare product? These are some of the most common factors. Next, work your way towards a calmer complexion with our skin-soothing guide, below.
Keep your skin clean (just not too clean)
When skin is sensitised, even washing your face can be unpleasant. But that doesn’t mean you should skip your cleanse, especially while everything is in bloom. Allergens can stick to everything—so if you’re experiencing a reaction, shower and wash your hair before bed so you don’t end up sleeping with them.Swap bar soaps and cleansers that make skin feel tight with hydrating washes rich in soothing antioxidants (think green and white teas) and humectants such as aloe vera—all of which are found in the Magnesium + White Tea Wash. Also opt for warm, not hot, water. “Frequently exposing your skin to hot water strips the natural oils that protect it.
Ditch harsh ingredients
Analysing your products to eliminate sensitising ingredients is the first line of defense,Mattioli explains. When we see clients have a rosy hue on cheeks and their skin feels warm or tender to the touch, we recommend a routine change by cutting irritants. Common culprits include retinols, leave-on acids, chemical sunscreens, artificial fragrance, alcohol-based products, and prescription-strength acne cream. Instead, stick with a simpler (and all-around cleaner) regimen consisting of a gentle cleanser, face oil, and mineral-based sunscreen. Also look for products with ingredients high in nourishing essential fatty acids (sesame, chia, and hemp seed oil are good examples), like Undaria Algae Oil, which also contains potent soothers like linseed oil and acai . Fatty acids occur naturally in skin’s outer layer, and studies show that applying them topically can help restore a compromised skin barrier. Foods such as nuts, seeds, grains, pumpkin, fish, and sweet potatoes all contain fatty acids that can help irritated skin.
Bathe in salts
If your irritation extends beyond your face, retreat to the bath. Research has shown that bathing in magnesium-rich dead sea salts can lessen inflammation, increase hydration, and strengthen skin barrier. Magnesium has also been shown to reduce stress and cortisol levels (the root of many skin conditions). Add a generous amount to a warm bath and a few drops of your favourite oil to elevate the self-care element.
Seasonal must have products:
May Lindstrom's Blue Cocoon - this balmy blue enchantress greets your skin with cool serenity, melting on touch to a fluid potion that tenderly envelopes you in the most decadent azule calm.
Mystical blue tansy (Blue Chamomile) eases feelings of emotional anxiety while releasing heat and providing nourishing hydration and relief to even the most delicate and troubled skin conditions.
MV Organics - Award winning Cream Cleaner - Gaining ‘cult’ status around the world, this luxe cleanser removes all traces of make-up and grime without stripping and works miracles on congested skin. Silky-smooth and deliciously scented, this unique moisturising cleanser is perfect for all skins including even the most sensitive
Camelina Chamomille Serum Concentrate – Sensitive Skin - Soothing & calming serum formulated to help even the most sensitive skin, restoring suppleness and skin’s strength. Incredibly anti-inflammatory, Camelina oil helps to calm and condition irritated & reactive skin. Camelina is also known to help treat eczema. With tremendous skin healing proper ties, gentle Chamomile pairs with Calendula to further assist in soothing skin and minimizing redness.
Dont leave home without! - ULTRA MOISTURE ROSE FACIAL MIST - Tone, moisturise and soften with this light hydrating mist of rose essential oil, nourishing aloe leaf and calming witch hazel. A refreshing spray to balance the complexion and support skin absorption of serums and moisturisers. Suitable for fatigued, dry or congested skin.
German (Blue) chamomile
Blue chamomile has a long history of use which dates all the way back to the ancient Egyptians and ancient Greece. In the past this wonderful plant was used for alleviating various symptoms, among them abdominal pain, sore throat, acne, eczema caused by skin rashes, insomnia, psoriasis and nappy rash.
Calms, moisturises and restores
Blue chamomile is rich in vitamin B which accelerates the renegeration of skin tissue and calms and moisturises sensitive skin. This 100% pure and natural German, also known as blue, chamomile essential oil is made from the most beautiful heads of chamomile flowers and contains agents beneficial for restoring irritated skin.