How do I test new products if I have sensitive skin? A conversation with Dr. Garshick.

How do I test new products if I have sensitive skin? A conversation with Dr. Garshick.

Lauren Rome, Founder of Romer Skincare here. I’ve been asked many times what my skin was like prior to Romer and what prompted me to search for a solution.

I’ve never had perfect skin – my skin is very sensitive. It’s oily in spots and dry in others. I’ve spent years of my life suffering from breakouts, dark circles and flaky patches in my T-zone area.

Even when I was tinkering with the Romer formulas, there were plenty of times I had reactions to certain ingredients.

If this is something you’re suffering from, there is a natural hesitation to trying anything new. I get it.

So I decided to have a chat with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick about this very issue. She answered the following questions I had when I was on my skincare journey.

How long does it take for the skin to get used to new products?

“It can take up to several weeks to months for the skin to adjust and see changes from products. Some products, such as hydrating ingredients and moisturizer, can take effect sooner as some people can feel or notice a more immediate benefit after applying it as it draws in moisture.”

What is the best way to introduce new products when I have sensitive skin?

“Slowly. In general it is best to introduce one new product every 1-2 weeks if you have sensitive skin. For those with sensitive skin, it can often help to apply a small amount to a test area to see how the skin does.”

What ingredients are too harsh for sensitive skin?

“Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are generally too harsh for sensitive skin and should be used with caution. Those with sensitive skin may also find retinols or retinoids to be irritating.”

What happens if I break out when I use a new product?

“If you break out when using a new product, it is best to stop the product until the breakout improves. Getting a breakout from a new product doesn’t always mean you can’t try the product again. Once the breakout improves, you can still consider trying the product again as breakouts can still be due to multiple different factors and it is possible it may not happen again.”

Needless to say, if you have sensitive like me, don’t be afraid of trying new products but when you find a product and a routine that works… stick with it!

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