When Your Skin Speaks: Understanding Sensitivity and How to Rebuild the Barrier.

by Lisa Simone October 4, 2025

By Lisa Simone Skincare | Chicago, IL
Category: Skin Health & Education

I can always tell.

When I begin a facial, that very first cleanse tells me everything, whether a client’s skin is balanced, dehydrated, or crying out for barrier repair. The skin’s texture, the way it absorbs cleanser, even how it reacts to the water, it’s all information.

And while some clients feel discouraged when they hear that their skin is “sensitive,” it’s actually one of my favorite skin types to treat. Because with the right care, patience, and consistency, we can absolutely rebuild and strengthen the skin barrier.

What Does “Sensitive Skin” Really Mean?

Sensitive skin isn’t a flaw or a skin type it’s a state your skin can enter when it becomes vulnerable or reactive.

Sometimes it’s hereditary. Passed down genetically and linked to conditions like rosacea. Other times, it develops over time due to lifestyle, environment, or stress.

When the skin’s barrier (its natural protective layer of lipids and cells) is compromised, it can’t hold moisture or defend against irritants. That’s when you feel that familiar stinging, burning, tightness, or see redness that just won’t calm down.

Common Triggers That Sensitize the Skin

If your skin feels unpredictable or reactive, one (or more) of these could be the reason:

Over-exfoliating: Layering acids, scrubs, or retinol too often can erode the barrier.
Harsh cleansing habits: Foaming or alkaline cleansers strip essential oils.
Climate shifts: Chicago weather alone can take your skin on a roller coaster.
Genetics & rosacea: Some skin types are naturally more reactive.
Hormones & stress: Elevated cortisol or hormonal fluctuations can heighten inflammation.
Gut health: Internal inflammation or poor digestion can show up as redness or breakouts.

The good news? Sensitivity isn’t permanent, it’s reversible with the right support.

Barrier Repair: Where Healing Begins

Our approach begins with a reset: removing anything aggressive and focusing on nourishing ingredients that repair and strengthen. Think hydration, lipids, vitamins, and gentle support that allows the skin to rebuild its integrity.

Once the skin is stable, we can gradually reintroduce exfoliants or treatments. In fact, gentle peels can actually help rosacea-prone skin by increasing cellular renewal and teaching the skin to behave more resiliently over time.

Two Hero Products for Sensitive Skin

When it comes to calming sensitivity and rebuilding the barrier, two products I reach for often are:

1. Environ Colostrum Gel

This formula is a powerhouse for reactive or dehydrated skin. Colostrum — the nutrient-rich first fluid produced by mammals — is filled with growth factors, peptides, and immune-supporting nutrients. It deeply hydrates while reducing inflammation and strengthening the skin’s natural defenses. Clients notice their skin feels plumper, calmer, and more resilient within days.

2. SIV Biome Balancing Serum

From the brand SIV, this advanced serum helps restore balance to the skin’s microbiome. the living layer of beneficial bacteria that keeps your skin calm, hydrated, and clear. When that microbiome is disrupted, the skin becomes reactive and inflamed.

SIV’s formula supports healthy bacteria, regulates sebum, and helps reduce redness and irritation. It’s ideal for sensitive, compromised, or rosacea-prone skin, and over time, it helps restore equilibrium and barrier strength.

Professional Treatments for Sensitive Skin

In the treatment room, sensitivity requires a mindful approach.

I avoid heat, steam, or friction and instead focus on calming and hydrating modalities like oxygen infusion, LED therapy, or sonophoresis to strengthen the barrier without irritation. I also love incorporating Environ Lactic Acid Cool Peel.

The Takeaway

Sensitive skin isn’t a setback, it’s a signal.
Your skin is communicating that it needs care, patience, and protection.

With the right combination of professional treatments, barrier-repairing home care, and microbiome-balancing ingredients, your skin can absolutely return to a calm, radiant state.

If your skin has been feeling reactive, tight, or unpredictable lately, it may be time for a barrier reset.
Book a consultation or gentle facial at Lisa Simone Skincare, and let’s help your skin feel safe. and strong. again.