What should you know about the most sensitive skin on the body?

Sensitivity may feel like burning, stinging, itching, tightness or rapid redness after products, heat, shaving or friction. The eyelids and genital skin are delicate; the face is also exposed to weather, cosmetics and frequent washing. Sensitivity can be temporary after irritation, or linked with a skin condition. Most people with atopic dermatitis notice intense itching, while rosacea can cause facial flushing and stinging. [Sensitive Skin](/symptoms/skin-sensitivity/), [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) and [Rosacea](/conditions/rosacea/) describe different patterns.

Use lukewarm water, a gentle fragrance-free cleanser and a plain moisturiser. Introduce one new product at a time and test it on a small area first. Avoid scrubbing, fragranced products and applying strong active ingredients to already sore skin. Pat dry, reduce rubbing from clothing or masks, and use sun protection that your skin tolerates. A rash around the mouth may need assessment for [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/) rather than repeated product changes.

Arrange medical review for persistent burning, swelling, cracking, recurrent rash, or symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily activities. Seek urgent help if facial swelling affects breathing, or if a rapidly spreading rash involves the eyes. New sensitivity after a medicine, procedure or chemical exposure should be reported promptly.

Ask whether your symptoms fit irritation, allergy or a condition such as dermatitis or rosacea. Bring product names and describe where the reaction occurs, how quickly it starts, and whether heat, sunlight, shaving or friction triggers it.