Skin Inflammation: Five Causes and Treatment

Skin irritation is a common experience that can cause redness, dryness, and discomfort. It happens when the skin reacts to external or internal factors, triggering an immune response that can make the skin feel sensitive or appear inflamed. 

While occasional irritation is normal, persistent discomfort may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.

What is skin inflammation?

Your skin is more than just what you see in the mirror — it’s your body’s largest organ and plays a vital role in overall health. 

Think of it as a shield, constantly working to protect you from external stressors like bacteria, pollutants, and UV rays. It also helps regulate temperature, retains moisture, and serves as a first line of defense for your immune system.

When the skin detects something it perceives as a threat — whether it’s an allergen, an irritant, or an imbalance from within — it responds by activating the immune system. This reaction can result in redness, swelling, sensitivity, or discomfort. It’s the body’s way of signaling that something is off-balance.

Ultimately, skin inflammation is a sign that the body is working hard to restore equilibrium. But, that doesn’t make experiencing its effects any more comfortable. By understanding the root causes and how to support skin health, we can take steps to keep our skin looking and feeling its best.

What are common causes of skin irritation?

There are a number of factors that can influence skin health. Understanding what’s causing your skin discomfort. is key to finding the right solutions. 

1. Environmental stressors

Everyday exposure to the elements can affect the skin’s balance. Harsh weather conditions, extreme temperatures, and air pollution can weaken the skin’s natural defenses. 

Cold, dry air can strip moisture from the skin, while excessive heat and humidity may contribute to excess oil production and clogged pores. UV radiation from the sun is another factor — over time, unprotected sun exposure can lead to skin sensitivity and premature aging.

2. Allergens and irritants

Many skincare and household products contain ingredients that can trigger irritation. 

Fragrances, dyes, and harsh preservatives in soaps, detergents, and cosmetics may disrupt the skin’s balance. Even natural ingredients can cause sensitivity in some individuals, especially if the skin barrier is already compromised.

Beyond topical irritants, airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites can also affect the skin. People with sensitivities may experience occasional flare-ups when exposed to these triggers. 

Paying attention to product labels and choosing gentle, dermatologist-tested formulations can help reduce exposure to potential irritants.

3. The role of nutrition and hydration

What’s happening inside the body can reflect on the skin. A well-balanced diet rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants supports overall skin health. 

Some people may notice increased sensitivity after consuming processed foods, excess sugar, or dairy. While individual responses vary, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-rich foods can help support the skin’s natural balance.

Hydration also plays a major role. The skin needs adequate moisture to maintain its protective barrier. When the body is dehydrated, the skin may appear dry or irritated. Drinking enough water and using hydrating skincare products can help maintain a balanced, healthy-looking complexion.

4. Emotional wellness and skin sensitivity

Stress is often linked to skin discomfort. When the body is under stress, it releases certain hormones that can affect the skin’s natural processes. Some people may experience occasional redness, irritation, or breakouts during high-stress periods. 

Prioritizing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and mindful movement, can help support both emotional and skin wellness.

5. Over-exfoliation and harsh skincare practices

While regular skincare is important, using overly aggressive products can disrupt the skin barrier. Harsh exfoliants, alcohol-based toners, and frequent cleansing with strong surfactants can strip away natural oils, leaving the skin vulnerable to irritation. 

A gentler approach — using mild cleansers, nourishing moisturizers, and sunscreen — can help maintain a balanced complexion.

How to soothe skin irritation

So, now that you know what may be causing your skin irritation, how can you find relief? Let’s explore some ways to soothe the skin. 

Supporting the skin barrier

A strong skin barrier helps protect against environmental stressors and irritation. Choosing fragrance-free, hydrating skincare products with soothing ingredients can help reinforce the skin’s natural defenses. Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and plant-based oils are known for their ability to support moisture retention and keep the skin feeling balanced.

Sun protection is also essential. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF helps shield the skin from UV exposure, reducing the risk of long-term sensitivity.

Managing emotional wellness for skin health

Since stress and emotional wellness can influence skin sensitivity, incorporating relaxation practices into daily routines may support overall skin health. Simple habits like getting fresh air, practicing deep breathing, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help the body stay balanced.

Nourishing the skin with hydration and nutrition

The skin relies on hydration to maintain its protective barrier. Dehydrated skin can become more prone to irritation, dryness, and sensitivity. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps keep the body and skin hydrated, supporting a balanced complexion.

Nutrition also plays an important role in skin wellness. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, help support the skin’s natural lipid barrier. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, spinach, and green tea provide compounds that help defend against environmental stressors. Choosing whole, nutrient-dense foods while minimizing highly processed foods can help support skin health from within.

Sleep and skin recovery

During sleep, the body goes into repair mode, including the renewal of skin cells. Poor sleep quality may contribute to dull, sensitive, or reactive skin. 

Creating a calming nighttime routine — such as avoiding screen time before bed, keeping the room cool, and practicing relaxation techniques — can help promote restorative sleep. Using a hydrating nighttime skincare product can also support skin moisture levels while resting.

Can CBD support overall skin wellness?

Hemp-derived CBD is increasingly recognized for its potential to support skin balance and comfort. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant. It interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in maintaining overall balance.*

The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), which are found throughout the body, including in skin cells. Within the skin, the ECS can help regulate key processes like moisture retention, discomfort signaling, and sebum (oil) production.* CBD interacts with these receptors, supporting the skin’s natural ability to maintain equilibrium.*

CBD and skin comfort

By working with receptors directly beneath the skin, CBD may help soothe feelings of tension in the skin, especially when applied topically at the area of discomfort.* 

Many people seek CBD-infused skincare products for their calming and hydrating properties. These products often include complementary ingredients such as botanical extracts, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants to help nourish and support the skin barrier.*

CBD and tension, sleep, and skin health

Along with addressing surface-level irritation, CBD can also work beyond the skin to help address deeper causes of discomfort. 

Stress and sleep quality can influence skin wellness. When stress levels rise, cortisol increases, which may contribute to occasional breakouts or irritation. CBD can help the body respond to stressors and promote emotional balance.*

Sleep is another essential factor. Restorative sleep helps the skin’s repair process, and research suggests using CBD in your nighttime routine can help promote healthy sleep quality by supporting a relaxed state of mind before bed.* A calm, well-rested body often reflects in a more balanced-looking complexion.

How to use CBD for skin health

CBD can be incorporated into a skincare routine in different ways:

• CBD Topicals: Creams, balms, and serums allow for direct application to areas of irritation or dryness. These products may provide localized hydration and support skin barrier function.*
• CBD Oils and Edibles: Internal use of CBD tinctures or gummies may help support stress responses and overall wellness, which can have a positive effect on skin balance over time.*

Choosing high-quality, third-party-tested CBD products (like ours!) ensures purity and effectiveness.

When to seek professional guidance for skin inflammation

Occasional skin irritation is common, but if discomfort persists or worsens, consulting a dermatologist can help identify potential underlying causes. Skin that frequently becomes inflamed, overly dry, or reactive may require a more tailored approach. 

A dermatologist can assess skin concerns and recommend appropriate solutions based on individual needs.

The bottom line

We believe that wellness starts with transparency and trust. At Sunmed, we prioritize science-backed, third-party-tested hemp products that align with our commitment to quality. 

Every ingredient in our formulations is chosen with purpose, ensuring that our customers receive reliable, effective products they can feel good about using.

Whether you're looking to support skin wellness, balance daily stress, or incorporate hemp-derived solutions into your routine, we’re here to provide credible, straightforward education to help you make informed decisions.

Taking care of your skin starts with a thoughtful approach — choosing gentle skincare, supporting emotional wellness, and being mindful of nutrition and hydration. When looking for CBD-infused products to complement your skincare routine, selecting high-quality, well-researched options is key to getting the best results.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:

Skin: Layers, Structure and Function | Cleveland Clinic

Environmental Stressors on Skin Aging. Mechanistic Insights | PMC

Dietary Influences on Skin Health in Common Dermatological Disorders | PMC

Stress may be getting to your skin, but it’s not a one-way street | Harvard Health

Enhancing Endocannabinoid Control of Stress with Cannabidiol | PMC