For some skin types, especially those with a DSNT skin type, the onset of winter is yet another reminder of how dry, flaky and sensitive their skin can be. Believe me, I understand your struggles. My skin is on the cusp of DSNW and DSNT, so I know first-hand that caring for super-dry skin can be a real challenge. The good news is, once you learn more about your skin and the lifestyle changes you can make to alleviate bothersome symptoms, DSNT skin can be easily managed.
What Is DSNT Skin?
DSNT skin, or Baumann Skin Type number 2, is Dry, Sensitive, Non-Pigmented and Tight. If your skin feels like it can never get enough moisture, you’re probably a DSNT. The problem, though, is that even if you are following every moisturizing trick in the book, the very products that are supposed to restore water to your skin could be causing irritation, flaking, redness and a rough, dull complexion.
Common Problems for DSNT Skin Types
Fortunately for DSNT skin types, wrinkles and premature aging aren’t concerns, provided that you stay protected from the sun. But you are contending with very dry, super-sensitive skin, and this can be a challenging combination. The key here is to protect and repair the skin’s barrier, which helps to keep moisture in while keeping allergens, toxins and bacteria out.
A weakened skin barrier can spell trouble for your skin type, especially if you’re using the wrong skincare products. Once your skin barrier becomes damaged, substances are able to pass through it too readily, which can cause allergic or inflammatory reactions. This is why DSNT skin types should avoid products that contain fragrances and dyes that can trigger this reaction.
Keep in mind, too, that some DSNT types may be drier and more sensitive than others. If you scored very high in these two categories, your chances of experiencing reactions and developing eczema (a common skin condition characterized by patches of dry, flaky skin) are much higher.
Dos and Don’ts for DSNT Skin
DO:
Use barrier repair moisturizers such as those with MLE Technology
Only use a retinoid every third day when beginning because it can take three to four days before irritation occurs
Use products with anti-inflammatory ingredients such as argan oil, niacinamide and grape seed extract
Wash your face after rinsing out hair conditioner to remove any residue from skin
Consider taking an oral anti-inflammatory supplement, or eat foods with flaxseed oil, omega-3 fatty acids or zinc
Eat foods high in linoleic acid, such as pumpkin seeds and walnuts
Eat foods high in vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes, kale and carrots
Get at least seven hours of sleep a night and do one hour of any stress-relieving activity each day to lower blood cortisol levels
DO NOT:
Use foaming cleansers, shampoos and bubble baths with detergents like sodium lauryl sulfate
Forget your daily sunscreen
Get discouraged if it takes a few weeks to adjust to the retinol
Use products not specified as appropriate for your skin type
Eat a lot of sugar and dairy if you experience acne breakouts
Caring for DSNT Skin
The ideal skincare routine for DSNT types focuses on minimizing dryness and sensitivity by repairing and strengthening the skin’s barrier. Here are a few general recommendations:
Never use a foaming cleanser or regular bar soap. Instead, use a hydrating, non-foaming cleanser like VMV Hypoallergenic Moisture Rich Creammmy Cleansing Milk.
Never use toners. These products strip much-needed lipids from your skin. Instead, use a facial mist like La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, which contains selenium to help decrease inflammation.
Moisturize as much as possible. A barrier-repair moisturizer is essential for DSNT skin. I recommend Zerafite Barrier Repair Moisturizer because it contains the same ratio of ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol found naturally in the skin’s barrier.
Be careful about exfoliation. Only DSNTs with an S/R score of 30 or lower should exfoliate, and even then, limit this to only once per week.
Make healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, reducing stress and taking an omega-3 supplement to promote healthy skin from the inside out.
Dr. Baumann’s Bottom Line
There’s a lot to love about your DSNT skin, namely its delicate, tight appearance that’s free of wrinkles. Be sure to stay on top of moisturizing and protecting your skin by using gentle skincare products that won’t compromise your skin’s barrier and lead to irritation.
If you’re not sure which Baumann Skin Type you have, head over to www.skintypesolutions.com to find a physician who can accurately diagnose your skin type and recommend the proper skincare products that will keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
Dr. Leslie Baumann, M.D. and her team at Baumann Cosmetic Dermatology believe in proof, not promises. World-recognized for both cosmetic and general dermatology, our treatment strategies rely exclusively on evidence-based, scientifically verified products and procedures that promote skin health and a natural appearance. We combine effective medical procedures with individualized instruction on proper skincare, nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle in order to maximize the health of the skin and body as a whole while minimizing the effects of aging. For more, visit Dr. Baumann’s blog for daily updates Monday through Friday, or inquire about an appointment through Derm.net.