Sensitive skin is a topic near and dear to my heart — when I was little, I would break out in hives every time my mom changed laundry detergents! My skin is very sensitive when it comes to cleansers and scents. But that’s not the only kind of sensitive skin out there.
Touch sensitivity is a kind of malfunction in the tactile sensory system. Sensations that might be meaningless background noise (like the feel of the seams in your shirt) might be uncomfortable or even painful to a person with touch sensitivity (also known as tactile defensiveness). A person with a normal sense of touch may feel a material or surface as smooth where a person with touch sensitivity may perceive it as uncomfortably rough.
A person with touch sensitivity may:
- React inappropriately to casual contact, or avoid casual contact entirely. This can put a strain on friendships and relationships.
- Have difficulty concentrating because of touch issues — like the feel of a school uniform or the air current from a heater.
- Refuse contact with things that are sticky, slimy, or dirty.
- Insist on cutting all the labels out of their clothes.
- Avoid foods with a certain texture.
Touch sensitivity may be an aspect of a larger health issue. Some people with autism, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more may experience tactile defensiveness as a symptom. Fetal alcohol syndrome may come with touch sensitivity. Unfortunately, doctors aren’t sure what causes this sensory integration disorder. One current theory suggests that the problem may be with the cerebellum — the part of the brain that deals with the senses.
If you or someone you love is experiencing touch sensitivity, talk to your doctor. Occupational therapy can help relieve symptoms and improve the way your nervous system processes touch.
In the short term, you can look for soft, comfortable clothing (well-washed cotton may be a good choice). Sew soft fabric of the same color over seams to protect sensitive skin. Try wearing a tight-fitting undershirt with uncomfortable clothing — the compression may help alleviate discomfort and protect skin from the movements of loose fabric. These steps won’t fix the problem, but they may provide some temporary relief.