Symptoms of discomfort reported by people with sensitive skin include burning, tingling, tightness and itching, which occur after washing the face with water or using certain cosmetics. When moisture is lost and the skin’s protective layer of fat disappears, dilated blood vessels appear.The makeup below is intended to conceal them.
The first signs of this condition may include redness caused by a change in temperature, emotion or nervousness. Redness may appear around the cheeks, nose and chin. Over time, it develops into persistent erythema accompanied by swelling, burning and itching, while a visible red network of blood vessels becomes established on the face.
The problem can occur with any skin type. However, it usually affects thin, delicate, sensitive skin with a superficial vascular network. It may appear very early, during childhood, but becomes established after the age of 20.
Couperose skin does not tolerate extreme weather conditions—overheating in dry rooms, wind and low temperatures outdoors. Hot drinks should be avoided, as a sudden temperature difference stimulates the blood vessels, especially strong coffee and tea. You should also not smoke (it has a negative effect on every type of skin!) or drink large amounts of alcohol. Hot baths and steam treatments also promote the dilation of blood vessels.
Some cosmetics may have a negative effect on the skin. Aloe can cause blood vessels to dilate, so it should not be used at all with this type of skin. Alcohol-based toners are also not recommended.
Herbs may be helpful. Horsetail and rue contain silica, which constricts blood vessels. It is therefore advisable to drink an infusion or take tablets containing extracts of these plants. It may take between one and six months to see results. Special creams should be used to care for sensitive skin with visible blood vessels. The preparation should contain vitamins C and K, as well as herbal extracts (horse chestnut, arnica, pansy, rue and chamomile). Vitamin C seals and rebuilds blood vessels, while vitamin K accelerates the fading of red discolorations on the cheeks. When caring for sensitive and couperose skin, avoid harsh, coarse-grained scrubs. They irritate sensitive skin, cause blood vessels to rupture, and may make existing erythema permanent or worsen it. An enzyme peel will be the best solution for this type of skin.
Sensitive skin can also be cared for using home remedies. An oatmeal compress that reduces irritation is effective. Pour warm milk over the oats (milk contains milk proteins that, among other things, moisturize, regenerate and soothe irritation). Wash the face gently with the resulting paste, then gently rinse it with a toner, for example one made from rose petals. Remember to keep the face moist at all times and use gentle, smooth movements. In summer, make a natural nourishing mask from plain yogurt and parsley. Add a handful of fresh green parsley to 2–3 tablespoons of plain yogurt and blend. Apply the mixture to the face and neck for approximately 20 minutes. The large amount of vitamin C in parsley will brighten discolorations, reduce erythema and strengthen fragile, rupturing blood vessels. After several regular treatments, they will certainly be less visible.