Managing Sensitive Skin When You're Sick: Causes and Solutions
By Mai Guillou
When illness strikes, your body isn’t just battling the internal symptoms—it can also affect your skin. Many people overlook the connection between being sick and skin sensitivity, but understanding the causes and solutions can make a big difference in your comfort. In this blog post, we'll explore why your skin becomes sensitive when you're unwell and share practical tips for managing this issue.
Can Being Sick Cause Skin Irritation?
Yes, being sick can indeed cause skin irritation. When your body is fighting an infection, it triggers an immune response that releases chemicals like cytokines, which promote inflammation. This inflammation can extend to your skin, making it more sensitive and prone to irritation. During illness, your body also priorities combating the infection over maintaining skin health, potentially weakening your skin’s natural barrier. This can lead to increased sensitivity to environmental factors, dehydration, and irritation from everyday products.
In addition to systemic inflammation, dehydration caused by fever, reduced fluid intake, or certain medications can dry out your skin, making it more susceptible to discomfort. These factors combined explain why your skin might feel sore, itchy, or unusually sensitive when you're under the weather.
What Illnesses Can Make Your Skin Sensitive?
Several illnesses can lead to skin sensitivity, including the flu, common colds, and various infections. Additionally, conditions like allodynia, where your skin becomes painful to touch, can develop during sickness.
Why Does Your Skin Become Sensitive When You're Sick?
Here are a few possible reasons your skin may become more sensitive when you’re ill:
Dehydration - Dehydration during illness is a common issue that can significantly impact your skin's health and sensitivity. When you're sick, your body often loses fluids at a faster rate due to factors like fever, increased sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. Additionally, the reduced appetite and lower fluid intake that often accompany illness can exacerbate dehydration. This lack of adequate hydration directly affects your skin, which is composed of cells that require water to function properly. When your body is dehydrated, your skin loses moisture, becoming dry and less resilient. The natural oils that form a protective barrier on the skin's surface diminish, making it harder for your skin to retain moisture. This weakened barrier allows external irritants, such as pollutants or harsh skincare ingredients, to penetrate more easily, leading to increased irritation and sensitivity.
Medication Side Effects - Certain medications can cause skin sensitivity or irritation by disrupting the skin's normal functions or triggering an immune response. For instance, antibiotics like penicillin can cause allergic reactions, leading to rashes and itching. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may cause photosensitivity, making the skin more prone to sunburn. Chemotherapy drugs often lead to dryness and increased sensitivity as they target rapidly dividing cells, including skin cells. These side effects occur because the medications interfere with the skin's protective barrier, making it more vulnerable to external irritants.
Immune Response - The immune response begins with the release of various signaling molecules called cytokines. These proteins play a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune attack by promoting inflammation, which is one of the body's primary defense mechanisms. Inflammation helps to isolate the infection, prevent its spread, and recruit white blood cells to the affected area to fight off the invaders.
However, this inflammatory response isn't limited to just the site of infection; it can spread throughout the body, affecting other tissues, including the skin. When inflammation reaches the skin, it can lead to weakened skin barrier, rashes, and skin inflammation among others.
Common Symptoms of Skin Sensitivity During Illness
Increased Sensitivity to Touch: Your skin may feel sore or tender when touched.
Burning Sensations: Some people experience a burning feeling on their skin.
Tingling: A tingling sensation, particularly during a fever, is also common.
Redness and Inflammation: Skin may appear red or swollen in sensitive areas.
Rashes: Some individuals may develop rashes or hives on their skin.
Dryness or Peeling: Increased sensitivity can lead to dry, flaky, or peeling skin.
Itching: A strong urge to scratch due to heightened sensitivity may occur.
Heat Sensitivity: Skin might feel excessively warm or uncomfortable to the touch.
How to Manage Skin Sensitivity During Illness
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your skin hydrated.
Use Gentle Skincare Products: Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to prevent further irritation.
Wear Soft Fabrics: Choose loose, soft clothing that won't rub against or irritate sensitive skin.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your skin sensitivity worsens or is accompanied by severe symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.
Get Personalised Skincare Solutions
Everyone’s skin reacts differently when sick. For personalised advice, consider consulting a skin expert who can provide skincare solutions tailored to your specific needs. Here at Skin to Heart, we offer advanced skin consultations that can help you manage skin sensitivity during illness and beyond. Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment!
