Dryness & Sensitivity

26 min read

Understanding Dryness & Sensitivity

Dry and sensitive skin often coexist, leading to discomfort, irritation, and a weakened barrier. While dry skin lacks moisture and essential lipids, sensitive skin overreacts to triggers like harsh ingredients, climate, or underlying conditions. Strengthening the barrier with hydration and gentle care helps restore balance and resilience.

⬑ Acne breakouts

⬑ Congested pores

Conditions Across Life Stages

Infant & Childhood Sensitivity

Babies and children have delicate skin, making them prone to dryness, sensitivity, and eczema. Frequent bathing, weather changes, and fabrics can trigger irritation. Gentle hydration and barrier-protecting care with soothing botanicals help maintain comfort and prevent moisture loss.

⬑ Infant skin with dry, flaky patches on cheeks

⬑ Sensitive young skin reacting to outdoor factors

Teenage Dryness & Sensitivity

Hormonal changes can cause oiliness and dry, sensitive patches. Harsh treatments weaken the skin barrier, increasing reactivity. A balanced routine with gentle hydration and calming ingredients helps maintain skin health without overloading or stripping its natural defences.

⬑ Red, irritated skin from acne treatments

⬑ Sensitivity from overuse of harsh exfoliating products

Adult-Onset Dryness & Sensitivity

Stress, pollution, and ageing weaken the skin barrier, increasing dryness and sensitivity. Prolonged exposure to irritants heightens reactivity, while dehydration worsens fine lines and dullness. Gentle hydration, anti-inflammatory botanicals, and non-stripping care help maintain skin strength, balance, and comfort.

⬑ Dull, tight skin showing signs of dehydration and irritation

⬑ Fine lines and rough patches caused by wrongful care, dryness, and accelerated ageing

Mature Skin & Barrier Weakness

As skin ages, natural oil production declines, making it more prone to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity. Thinner skin is also more vulnerable to environmental stressors, leading to heightened discomfort. Strengthening lipids, boosting hydration, and reinforcing the barrier help maintain a smooth, resilient complexion.

⬑ Thinner, fragile skin prone to redness and inflammation

⬑ Dryness-induced flakiness, redness, irritation and the apperance of crepey texture

Common Conditions

Sensitive Skin: Reactivity to Triggers

Sensitive skin overreacts to ingredients, temperature changes, and even stress, causing stinging, burning, or redness. This can result from a weakened barrier, genetic predisposition, or inflammatory conditions like rosacea.

⬑ Red, irritated skin reacting to insuitable skincare products

⬑ Acute inflammation, stinging and flushing due to environmental triggers

Barrier-Damaged Skin: Compromised Protection

A damaged skin barrier struggles to retain moisture and defend against irritants, making the skin more prone to dehydration, inflammation, and chronic sensitivity. Over-exfoliation, harsh treatments, and excessive cleansing can weaken its function.

⬑ Irritated, red skin reating to an impaired skin barrier

⬑ Dry, flaky patches from harsh skincare, treatments, and excessive exfoliation

Dry Skin: Lipid Deficiency

Dry skin is caused by insufficient lipid (oil) production, making it prone to flakiness, irritation, and a rough texture. Without a healthy lipid barrier, moisture escapes easily, leading to persistent dryness and increased sensitivity.

⬑ Persistent dryness despite moisturising

⬑ Flaky, rough-textured skin lacking of natural oils from within

Dehydrated Skin: Moisture Imbalance

Dehydration occurs when the skin lacks sufficient water content, resulting in a tight, uncomfortable sensation. Unlike dry skin, which lacks oil, dehydrated skin can still produce sebum but appears dull and rough. Common causes include excessive cleansing, lack of hydration, and environmental factors like air conditioning and low humidity.

⬑ Dull, rough skin with dehydration lines

⬑ Onset of tight, uncomfortable sensation after daily cleansing

We're here to help you manage your skin concerns.

At Folke®, we address skin concerns at the root for lasting results. Our painless, non-invasive, customised plant-tech approach protects your skin and health, delivering visible, personalised improvements backed by over 20 years of expertise.

Disclaimer

At Folke®, we offer treatments and skincare products designed to support skin health, with results varying based on factors like skin type, conditions, lifestyle, and treatment adherence. Our information is based on in-clinic observations, client experiences, and published academic materials. While claims and comparisons to mainstream therapies reflect general research, reactions to treatments can vary. Not every patient will experience the same results, and some may tolerate treatments better than others. Folke®, its founder Charles Ng, staff, and representatives are not responsible for discrepancies or differing opinions. This content is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While Folke® is committed to high-quality treatments and products for skin concerns, individual outcomes may vary. The effectiveness of our treatments depends on various factors, and Folke® cannot guarantee specific results for every client. We encourage clients to consult with our professionals to set realistic expectations tailored to their needs. This information should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

Academic References:

Proksch E et al., “The skin barrier function and its importance at dry skin conditions.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science 30, no. 2 (2008): 77-85.

Loden M et al., “Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders.” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 4, no. 11 (2003): 771-788.

Blume-Peytavi U et al., “Skin care practices for newborns and infants: review of the clinical evidence for best practices.” Pediatric Dermatology 29, no. 1 (2012): 1-14.

Kanti V et al., “Characteristics of healthy children’s skin and differences to adult skin: a literature review.” Pediatric Dermatology 37, no. 5 (2020): 835-842.

Kottner J et al., “Change in skin properties over the first 10 years of life: a cross-sectional study.” Archives of Dermatological Research 309, no. 8 (2017): 653-664.

Gieler U et al., “Skin diseases in adolescents: an epidemiological study.” Dermatology and Psychosomatics 1, no. 1 (2000): 12-16.

Korting HC et al., “Skin care in acne: results of a survey.” Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft 8, no. 4 (2010): 287-294.

Baumann L, “Cosmeceutical critique: anti-aging moisturizers.” Dermatologic Therapy 20, no. 5 (2007): 330-342.

Draelos ZD, “Aging skin: the role of moisturizers.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 6, no. 4 (2007): 287-290.

Luebberding S et al., “Skin physiology in men and women: influence of sex and age on skin characteristics.” Dermatologic Surgery 39, no. 2 (2013): 193-199.

Farage MA et al., “Intrinsic and extrinsic factors in skin ageing: a review.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science 30, no. 2 (2008): 87-95.

Ganceviciene R et al., “Skin anti-aging strategies.” Dermato-Endocrinology 4, no. 3 (2012): 308-319.

Zouboulis CC et al., “Skin aging: the role of sebaceous glands.” Dermato-Endocrinology 1, no. 4 (2009): 197-202.

Misery L et al., “Sensitive skin in children.” Current Problems in Dermatology 46 (2014): 137-142.

Cork MJ et al., “Epidermal barrier dysfunction in atopic dermatitis.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology 129, no. 8 (2009): 1892-1908.

Simpson EL et al., “Atopic dermatitis: a review of current treatment options.” Current Medical Research and Opinion 26, no. 3 (2010): 633-640.

Rawlings AV et al., “Dry skin and moisturizers.” Clinical Dermatology 20, no. 2 (2002): 93-96.

Verdier-Sévrain S et al., “Skin hydration: a review on its molecular mechanisms.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 6, no. 2 (2007): 75-82.

Draelos ZD, “The effect of ceramide-containing skin care products on eczema resolution duration.” Cutis 74, no. 6 (2004): 379-385.

Fluhr JW et al., “Glycerol accelerates recovery of barrier function in vivo.” Acta Dermato-Venereologica 78, no. 6 (1998): 394-397.

Proksch E et al., “Skin surface pH in atopic dermatitis.” Allergy 61, no. 8 (2006): 934-935.

Elias PM et al., “Stratum corneum hydration and its relationship to epidermal barrier function.” Archives of Dermatological Research 282, no. 2 (1990): 100-107.

Lambers H et al., “Natural skin surface pH is on average below 5, which is beneficial for its resident flora.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science 28, no. 5 (2006): 359-370.

Rawlings AV et al., “Moisturizer technology versus clinical performance.” Dermatologic Therapy 17, no. 1 (2004): 49-56.

Draelos ZD, “The science behind skin care: moisturizers.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 8, no. 2 (2009): 138-143.

Balanced Hydration for Resilient Skin

We adopt a plant-tech approach to dry and sensitive skin by restoring hydration, reinforcing the skin barrier, and soothing irritation without dependency on steroids or artificial occlusives.

Like fingerprints, every client is unique. Folke’s plant-tech approach combines botanical formulations and non-invasive technologies, tailoring solutions unique to your skin condition, history, and lifestyle for targeted, effective care — without drugs, medication, or harsh procedures.

⬑ Strengthened skin barrier without irritation

⬑ Botanical hydration solutions for lasting comfort and confidence

Soothing Sensitivity with Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals

Our plant-tech approach includes anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich extracts to calm sensitivity, reducing redness, irritation, and reactivity over time without relying on steroids.

⬑ Natural anti-inflammatory extracts for redness management

⬑ Long-term sensitivity management without mainstream potential rebound and side effects

Barrier Repair with Plant-Based Lipids

By using skin-compatible lipids, ceramides, and botanical extracts, our formulations support the natural lipid barrier, preventing excessive moisture loss and fortifying sensitive skin against irritants.

⬑ Strengthened lipid barrier to prevent dehydration

⬑ Skin-protective plant lipids to nurture a more long-term and sustainable skin resilience

Deep Hydration Without Heavy Residue

Rather than relying on heavy creams, Folke®’s plant-tech formulations use bioavailable hydration that penetrates deeply, restoring moisture balance without clogging pores or creating a greasy feel.

⬑ Lightweight hydration for soft, plump skin

⬑ Customised formulation for a deeper level of moisture absorption without the associated pore clogging

Personalised Solutions for Lasting Skin Comfort

Folke’s customised approach nurtures calm, hydrated, and resilient skin by addressing the root causes of dryness and sensitivity. Tailored to your unique needs, our solutions strengthen hydration and skin barrier function, ensuring lasting comfort and confidence, without harsh treatments or temporary fixes.

⬑ Personalised tinctures for hydrated, comfortable skin

⬑ Long-term sustainability with gentle, effective solutions to pave way for youth-preservation

We're here to help you manage your skin concerns.

Disclaimer

Academic References:

Loden M et al., “Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders.” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology 4, no. 11 (2003): 771-788.

Draelos ZD, “The effect of ceramide-containing skin care products on eczema resolution duration.” Cutis 74, no. 6 (2004): 379-385.

Elias PM et al., “Stratum corneum hydration and its relationship to epidermal barrier function.” Archives of Dermatological Research 282, no. 2 (1990): 100-107.

Verdier-Sévrain S et al., “Skin hydration: a review on its molecular mechanisms.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 6, no. 2 (2007): 75-82.

Sur R et al., “Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity.” Archives of Dermatological Research 300, no. 10 (2008): 569-574.

Kim EO et al., “Anti-inflammatory activity of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives isolated from corn bran in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 60, no. 37 (2012): 929-936.

Kuehl BL et al., “Skin surface pH, moisture, and abrasiveness following cleansing: implications for acne vulgaris.” Clinical and Experimental Dermatology 28, no. 6 (2003): 626-630.

Ananthapadmanabhan KP et al., “Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing.” Dermatologic Therapy 17, no. 1 (2004): 16-25.

Proksch E et al., “Skin surface pH in atopic dermatitis.” Allergy 61, no. 8 (2006): 934-935.

Hengge UR et al., “Adverse effects of topical glucocorticosteroids.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 54, no. 1 (2006): 1-15.

Coondoo A et al., “Side effects of topical steroids: A long overdue revisit.” Indian Dermatology Online Journal 5, no. 4 (2014): 416-425.

Fluhr JW et al., “Glycerol accelerates recovery of barrier function in vivo.” Acta Dermato-Venereologica 78, no. 6 (1998): 394-397.

Rawlings AV et al., “Moisturizer technology versus clinical performance.” Dermatologic Therapy 17, no. 1 (2004): 49-56.

Lambers H et al., “Natural skin surface pH is on average below 5, which is beneficial for its resident flora.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science 28, no. 5 (2006): 359-370.

Simpson EL et al., “Atopic dermatitis: a review of current treatment options.” Current Medical Research and Opinion 26, no. 3 (2010): 633-640.

Cork MJ et al., “Epidermal barrier dysfunction in atopic dermatitis.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology 129, no. 8 (2009): 1892-1908.

Hengge UR et al., “Long-term therapy with topical corticosteroids and the importance of proper patient education.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 20, no. 3 (2006): 241-250.

Draelos ZD, “Aging skin: the role of moisturizers.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 6, no. 4 (2007): 287-290.

Baumann L, “Cosmeceutical critique: anti-aging moisturizers.” Dermatologic Therapy 20, no. 5 (2007): 330-342.

Ganceviciene R et al., “Skin anti-aging strategies.” Dermato-Endocrinology 4, no. 3 (2012): 308-319.

Considerations with Mainstream Treatments

While Folke® Natural Skin Clinic does not offer mainstream treatments, our experience with clients who have undergone them has revealed varied skin responses.

Here, we explore some of these mainstream treatment approaches and the post-treatment concerns some clients have encountered before turning to Folke’s natural, non-invasive plant-tech approach to manage these skin concerns.

Hidden Cycle of Sensitivity

Some skincare products use undisclosed peeling agents to create a temporary glow while silently weakening the skin barrier. Continuous use strips essential lipids, increasing sensitivity and dehydration. Strengthening hydration and barrier-supporting botanicals helps restore balance, preventing long-term damage and reliance on reactive treatments.

⬑ Thinned barrier leading to increased reactivity and dehydration

⬑ Freshly exfoliated skin displaying temporary glow under the true skin condition laden with long-term sensitivity

Steroid Creams for Sensitivity

Topical corticosteroids are often prescribed to reduce inflammation in sensitive or eczema-prone skin. While effective in the short term, prolonged use can thin the skin, disrupt natural repair mechanisms, and lead to rebound sensitivity.

⬑ Skin thinning from prolonged use of steroid based skincare

⬑ Rebound redness and flare up after stopping the use of corticosteroid-based medication

Occlusive Creams for Dryness

Heavy moisturisers with petrolatum or mineral oil can create an artificial barrier, temporarily sealing in moisture but preventing natural hydration regulation. This can lead to reliance on thick creams without addressing underlying dryness.

⬑ Greasy, heavy creams creating the illusion of surface-level hydration

⬑ Bare skin associated with dryness, dullness and inflamed pigmentation from a long-term dependency on thick moisturisers

Harsh Cleansers & Over-Exfoliation

Foaming cleansers and frequent exfoliation can strip essential lipids, weakening the skin barrier. This often results in tightness, irritation, and increased susceptibility to environmental stressors.

⬑ Red, irritated skin from aggressive cleansing

⬑ Over-exfoliated skin showing dehydration and flakiness

We're here to help you manage your skin concerns.

Disclaimer

Academic References:

Coondoo A et al., “Side effects of topical steroids: A long overdue revisit.” Indian Dermatology Online Journal 5, no. 4 (2014): 416-425.

Hengge UR et al., “Adverse effects of topical glucocorticosteroids.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 54, no. 1 (2006): 1-15.

Fukaya M, “Atopic dermatitis and steroid withdrawal.” Ishiyaku Publishers, Inc. (2000).