Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is a skin condition. It reacts quickly to both heat and cold; therefore, it sunburns and windburns easily. It is commonly dry, delicate and prone to allergic reactions, although oily skin types can also be classified as sensitive. Temperature changes, some detergents, cosmetics and alcohol (used on the skin) can all cause irritation, leaving the skin red and blotchy, with visible surface veins.

And it’s genetic. If your mother has sensitive skin, it's likely she's passed it on to you (Thanks, Mom!). What’s more, and not surprisingly, the same people who easily burn in the sun (those of northern European ancestry — Celtic, Scottish, Norwegian, Scandinavian) are also prone to sensitive skin. But that doesn't mean darker skin can't be sensitive.