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SKIN CONCERNS

Sensitive skin and barrier repair in Cirencester

A damaged skin barrier causes stinging, tightness, redness and reactivity, and is usually the result of over-exfoliating or layering too many active products. At ALBA Skin & Beauty Clinic in Cirencester it is treated by simplifying your routine and rebuilding the barrier first, which typically takes six to eight weeks before any active treatment is appropriate.

What is it

Skin that stings when products are applied, feels tight after washing, flushes easily and reacts to things it previously tolerated. Often mistaken for naturally sensitive skin when it is in fact sensitised skin.

What causes it

Almost always self-inflicted with good intentions. Frequent exfoliation, multiple actives used together, retinoids introduced too quickly, or a new product every few weeks. Environmental factors and cleansing with water that is too hot contribute.

What usually helps

Stopping things, mostly. We strip the routine back to a gentle cleanser, a barrier-supporting moisturiser and SPF, then rebuild slowly. LED light therapy is safe during recovery and helps calm inflammation. Nothing active is used until the barrier has recovered.

What won’t help

Adding another product to fix the problem caused by too many products. Also anything marketed as soothing that still contains fragrance or alcohol.

FAQs

How long does it take to repair a damaged skin barrier?

Usually six to eight weeks of a simplified routine. It can take longer if the damage has built up over years. At ALBA we will not treat with anything active until the barrier has recovered, because doing so sets it back.

Is sensitive skin the same as sensitised skin?

No. Genuinely sensitive skin is a lifelong trait. Sensitised skin has become reactive through damage, most often from over-exfoliating or too many active products, and it can be fully restored.

Can I still have treatments while my barrier recovers?

LED light therapy is gentle and safe during recovery. Peels, microneedling and IPL are held back until the skin is calm, which is assessed at your review rather than by a fixed date.

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Simone Woods

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Simone Woods

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Simone Woods

"Testimonials are a great way to showcase positive feedback you've received. Click to edit and add yours."

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