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People with sensitive skin may have reactions to ordinary skincare products. After applying a skincare product, a person with sensitive skin may experience burning, stinging or itching. They may also have visible reactions such as redness and rash. There are a variety of factors that can lead to sensitive skin. Some evidence indicates that it may be related to genetics. Weather and environment can also play a role. There are no cures for sensitive skin, but there are things you can do to reduce the chances for irritation. Be sure to use gentle skincare products designed especially for sensitive skin. They are usually labelled "hypo-allergenic." Make sure to avoid sun exposure. Finally, don't cleanse your skin more than twice a day and avoid scrubbing.

EXPERT ARTICLE
Be Sensitive to the Skin Around Your Eyes

A lifetime of smiling, frowning, and squinting eventually results in the formation of fine lines as well as deeper wrinkles, commonly known as crow's feet. Fortunately, taking care of the delicate skin around your eyes can help delay or minimise these signs of aging.

The skin around your eyes is thinner than anywhere else on your body-about ten times thinner than the skin on the rest of your face.  As you get older, the collagen and elastin fibers that work to support the skin around your eyes begin to break down, so your skin thins even more.  Sun damage and smoking can speed the process  What's more, the skin around your eyes contains very few of the oil glands that help keep the rest of your skin naturally moisturised. Applying a daily moisturiser can help.

Because the skin around your eyes is so sensitive, it's important to choose products made specifically for the eye area. Look for gentle moisturisers, serums, and creams that contain effective anti-wrinkle ingredients, such as:

• Retinol: A form of vitamin A, retinol has been proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  Only use retinol products that have been specifically formulated for the eye area.
• Antioxidants: Vitamins A, B, C, and E help provide protection from free radicals-molecules that can damage healthy skin cells and undermine the supporting structure of the skin around the eyes.
• Hyaluronic acid: This active ingredient works by binding to water molecules. Its lubricating and plumping properties make it ideal for combating deep wrinkles.

Finally, remember to take care when removing eye make-up. Use an oil-free eye make-up remover with a soft sponge, washcloth, or cotton ball. Avoid scrubbing and tugging as this may aggravate your skin and contribute to sagging.