If your skin is easily irritated by the elements, cosmetic ingredients, chemicals in synthetic fabrics or by shaving, consider these sensible precautions.
Stay away from alkaline soaps, facial masks, grainy cleansers, alcohol-based astringents and cosmetics, acetone products such as nail-polish remover, and anything with fragrance.
Bathe in tepid or cool water, using mild unscented soap. Pat your skin dry, don't rub, then apply a moisturiser containing urea or lactic acid to your damp skin.•
'Breathable' natural fabrics, such as cotton, linen and wool are the best choice for clothing, but if you prefer synthetics, launder them several times before wearing to remove potential irritants.
Give extra protection to your hands when washing dishes or clothes by wearing a pair of cotton liners inside your rubber gloves.
Don't assume products labelled 'for sensitive skin' are necessarily safe for you. Test a new line on a small area of your inner arm daily for a week; if your skin reacts in any way, look for another product.
