Sensitive Skin Syndrome: Literature Review of an Emerging Condition
Abstract
Sensitive skin syndrome (SSS) can be defined by the occurrence of unpleasant sensations such as stinging, burning, pain or itching after the skin is exposed to physical, chemical or thermal stimuli that would not normally cause these symptoms. With an estimated prevalence of up to 50% in women and up to 30% in men, this condition can be diagnosed using questionnaires and skin reactivity tests. The pathophysiology appears to involve a decrease in epidermal barrier function and neurosensory and immunological dysfunction. Treatment includes general measures, such as avoiding trigger factors, reducing the number of cosmetics applied, and using biocompatible moisturizers. Treatments targeting the signaling pathways affected in the disease, such as TRPV1 inhibitors, are under development.
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