Beginning today, Cetaphil® will premiere Sensitive Skin Awareness Month, that will arm consumers with science-backed guidance on how to identify and care for sensitive skin of all kinds. Overall, approximately 60-70% of women and 50-60% of men have reported having some degree of sensitive skin. The goal of Sensitive Skin Awareness Month is to provide first-hand access to science-driven recommendations to help improve the overall quality of sensitive skin.

“With 75 years of strong sensitive skin heritage, Cetaphil® has strived to meet the tremendous need that millions of consumers have, to better understand and care for their sensitive skin. In 2022, that mission is stronger than ever. This April, we introduce a month-long celebration initiative for all people with sensitive skins, by enhancing awareness, knowledge and making people feel part of a real community where they can form unique and tailored skincare regimes with our Cetaphil® range” says Jenny Wright, Managing Director of Galderma South Africa.
Throughout the month, Cetaphil® will share their knowledge about sensitive skin and how Cetaphil’s formulas contain ingredients best suited to address the 5 Signs of Skin Sensitivity so that our sensitive skin consumers can find a regime that works for them. The 5 Signs of Skin Sensitivity includes weakened skin barrier, irritation, roughness, dryness and tightness.
1. Weakened skin barrier
The upper layer of the skin is an effective barrier against external aggressions. It is composed of compacted cells in a lipid matrix as a wall limiting the penetration of irritants. People with sensitive skin often have a thinner or damaged barrier layer of skin that allows irritants to penetrate more easily, and skin dehydrates more easily. This is not something you are likely to see, but you will feel it. If you are prone to discomfort, like stinging or burning sensations when using products not designed for sensitive skin, high chances are you have a damaged or fragile skin barrier.
2. Irritation
Redness, itching, burning, stinging, sensitive skin can be prone to all sorts of unpleasant sensations. Irritation is one of the most frequently reported and bothersome signs of sensitive skin. Sometimes you’ll see it, other times you’ll feel it, either way, you’ll want to avoid and instantly soothe it by selecting the right sensitive skin product for you.
3. Roughness
Flaky, dull, patchy, and uneven skin texture is a visible sign of sensitive skin. Such irregularities affect overall skin quality and can lead to discomfort and distress. Roughness usually goes hand in hand with dryness.
4. Dryness
Dry skin is commonly both a visible and sensorial indicator of sensitive skin. A weakened skin barrier creates an ineffective seal on the skin’s surface which leads to the loss of water and skin dehydration. This can lead to skin that feels tight or rough. The right sensitive skin products restore the natural skin’s hydration and sustainably hydrate the skin over time.
5. Tightness
The sensation that your skin is taut, stretched and strained is a feeling those with sensitive skin know all too well. Tightness is an indicator that your skin lacks moisture and hydration and is uncomfortable if left untreated.
Follow @Cetaphil_southafrica (Instagram) and @Cetaphil (Facebook) for Sensitive Skin Awareness Month content, advice, and even some product giveaways, and make sure to check out hashtag #SensitiveSkinMonth.
About Cetaphil®
Seventy-five years ago, a leading pharmacist created the first Cetaphil® product – a gentle, yet powerful formula that would clean without stripping and moisturise without clogging. Today, Cetaphil® is a dermatologically tested skincare brand, and is recognised around the world. With the help of leading global skincare experts, they continue to develop innovative skincare technologies for sensitive skin that help restore, protect and maintain skin’s health every day. For more information, visit https://www.cetaphil.co.za/.