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5 Signs of Skin Sensitivity

At Cetaphil® we know that living with sensitive skin could be a complex life-journey. The good news? You’re not alone, in fact, 70% of us admit to having skin that is prone to dryness, irritation, inflammation and discomfort. From chemical irritants to environmental conditions, hormonal shifts and stress, many factors can trigger or exacerbate skin sensitivity. But when skin needs are as unique as they are personal, how do we identify sensitive skin so we can select the best products for us? We consulted with dermatologists, scientists, and experts across the world to define 5 Signs of Skin Sensitivity to develop dedicated products for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

Identifying 5 signs

of skin sensitivity

The upper layer of the skin is an effective barrier against external aggressions. It is composed of compacted cells in a lipid matrix as a wall limiting the penetration of irritants. People with sensitive skin often have a thinner or damaged barrier layer of skin that allows irritants to penetrate more easily, and skin dehydrates more easily. This is not something you are likely to see, but you will feel it. If you are prone to discomfort, like stinging or burning sensations when using products not designed for sensitive skin, high chances are you have a damaged or fragile skin barrier.

5-signs-skin-sensitivity

Redness, itching, burning, stinging – sensitive skin can be prone to all sorts of unpleasant sensations. Irritation is one of the most frequently reported and bothersome signs of sensitive skin. Sometimes you’ll see it, other times you’ll feel it, either way, you’ll want to avoid and soothe it by selecting the right sensitive skincare products for you.

Flaky, dull, patchy and uneven skin texture is a visible sign of sensitive skin. Such irregularities affect overall skin quality and can lead to discomfort and distress. Roughness usually goes hand in hand with dryness.

The sensation that your skin is taut, stretched and strained is a feeling those with sensitive skin know all too well. Tightness is an indicator that your skin lacks moisture and hydration and is uncomfortable if left untreated.

Dry skin is commonly both a visible and sensorial indicator of sensitive skin. A weakened skin barrier creates an ineffective seal on the skin’s surface which leads to the loss of water and skin dehydration. This can lead to skin that feels tight or rough. The right sensitive skin products restore the natural skin’s hydration and sustainably hydrate the skin over time.

Cetaphil defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity

Cetaphil’s range of gentle cleansers and nourishing moisturisers support the skin’s natural barrier while boosting skin hydration and soothing irritation.


Scientifically formulated using selected ingredients like soothing Pro-Vitamin B5, Aloe Vera, and nourishing lipids like Shea Butter, Sunflower Seed Oil and Almond Oil, Cetaphil can help you take control of your sensitive skin needs.


For almost 75 years, Cetaphil has worked with dermatologists and healthcare professionals to develop and test their products. Through rigorous clinical testing, Cetaphil® was proven very effective against the key 5 Signs of Skin Sensitivity: weakened skin barrier, irritation, roughness, dryness and tightness.


Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser effectively cleanses all skin types without drying out skin, and Cetaphil’s Moisturising Lotions & Creams replenish skin moisture to keep skin hydrated and supple for up to 48 hours. 


Defend against 5 Signs of Skin Sensitivity. Try Cetaphil’s range of tried and tested formulas and give your sensitive skin the extra care it deserves.