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M ost of the reaction to cosmetics are simple irritation. An estimated 10% of the population has allergies, and many of these people are allergic to fragrances and essential oils, as well as preservatives that most products must have in order to have any shelf life. 		Sensitive skin is a medical condition. You have sensitive skin if you have fair skin with visible blood vessels, your skin gets red or sunburn easily, or become red or blotchy after a hot shower or bath, frequently feel stinging after using cleanser or applying moisturizer or sunscreen.

Sensitive skin is commonly dry and prone to allergic reactions, but sensitive skin is not the same as allergic skin. Sensitive skin may react to the product only in the area of application while allergic skin reacts with the whole body.

Sensitive skin is not the same as allergic skin.

But whether you're experiencing an allergic reaction or skin irritation, the symptoms are the same. The skin swells, becomes red, has a rash and itching. Additionally, it's possible for normal skin to develop temporary sensitivity due to sunburns, hormonal changes like puberty, pregnancy and menopause, and allergies from food and pollen can make your skin more easily aggravated.

If your skin is only temporarily sensitive, keep in mind that sensitive skincare products may be gentle, but it also signals less potency, especially when it comes to cleansers. These cleansers may not remove dirt and makeup residue completely, and in turn, is especially dangerous for acne-prone skin. So be certain of your skin condition before you stock up your shelf with sensitive skincare products.

Currently there are no industry or federal standards for any of the hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, or talc-free, the ultimate proof comes from trying the product on your skin. In order to avoid the problem-causing ingredients, read the ingredient list and try on a small patch of your skin before buying. And if it stings, move on to another product. 		There are no industry or federal standards.

There are more than 2,500 ingredients used to create beauty products. A blush, for example, contains 30 ingredients, and fragrance contains about 200.

With skincare products, less is always more for sensitive skin. Likely ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin are fragrance, preservatives (parabens), lanolin, mineral oil, formaldehyde, propylene glycol, PABA, red dyes, AHAs, vitamin E and essential oils.