A sensitive subject - Reader Giveaway - Brief Article

Natural Health, March, 2004

Sixty percent of women say they have sensitive skin marked by dryness, tightness, chapping and irritation, according to surveys conducted by Dove Skin Care. While dermatologists find it difficult to agree on an explanation for these troublesome symptoms, many believe a weakness in the skin's protective barrier may be at fault. Instead of defending against potential irritants, the outer layers of the skin allow them to pass through to the deeper, more vulnerable layers, which triggers reactions in some people.

If your skin is sensitive, experts advise steering clear of harsh cleansers as well as heavily fragranced products that might disrupt the skin's barrier. New products to try: Dove's Sensitive Essentials line of fragrance-free facial cleansers and moisturizers, all of which have been shown to reduce skin irritation. Enter to win one of 100 three-product gift packs containing the Sensitive Essentials Foaming Cleanser ($5), premoistened Cleansing Towelettes ($5) and nongreasy Day Lotion ($7; all at drugstores), at naturalhealth.com starting March 1. Good luck!

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