Is your skin suddenly sensitive to the touch, and you're wondering why? While many factors could contribute to your skin sensitivity, the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new variables into the equation. In rare cases, COVID patients have reported skin changes—some mentioning increased sensitivity as one of their symptoms.¹

Let’s explore the various factors that could make your skin suddenly sensitive, how it could be related to COVID, and what you can do to find relief.

What is skin sensitivity?

If your skin regularly sends you signals that feel like stinging, burning, or itching, you may have sensitive skin.² Unlike skin allergies, which have clear triggers and symptoms, sensitive skin is more like an enigma. It reacts to things other people’s skin wouldn’t, but you can't pinpoint why. You’re not sick, you don't have a rash, but your skin’s telling you something’s not quite right.³

If you’re experiencing this, you may want to dig deeper and determine what’s triggering these sensations.

What causes skin that is sensitive to touch?

If you’ve noticed that your skin has suddenly become sensitive to touch, you’re probably wondering what’s happening. A range of factors could be responsible! Allergic reactions can be one cause. Or sometimes, your skin becomes sensitive due to underlying skin or systemic disorders.⁴ According to research, sensitive skin is more common in people with conditions like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and rosacea.⁵

Now, you may also be wondering, “Could this be related to COVID?” It’s a valid question. While sensitive skin isn’t a commonly reported symptom of COVID-19, it is possible that your skin can be affected by it. If you’re concerned, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

COVID and your skin

When you have COVID-19 you might see skin changes similar to other skin conditions you’ve heard of, like acne or eczema.⁶ Sometimes, these are linked to small blood clots or other changes in your blood flow. The most common area for skin changes is the trunk, and itching is usually not present.⁷

These skin issues can pop up when you first get sick or even after you go to the hospital. They usually go away on their own quickly.⁸ Some people with COVID-19 develop a purplish, net-like pattern on their skin, possibly related to blood clotting. Others might get small red or purple spots or even rashes that look like frostbite on their fingers and toes.⁹

Treating COVID-related skin complications

If you're experiencing skin problems related to COVID, it’s essential to get medical advice for proper treatment. 

Here's how doctors might approach treating these skin issues:¹⁰

• Blood thinners, or anticoagulants, might be prescribed if blood clotting is a concern.

• Corticosteroids can be used to bring down inflammation and treat rashes.

• If itching or allergic reactions are an issue, antihistamines may help provide relief.

Catching these skin changes early can be beneficial, not just for managing your skin symptoms, but it can also help doctors assess the severity of your COVID-19 condition.¹¹ So, if you notice any skin issues while dealing with COVID, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Is skin sensitivity a symptom of COVID?

Skin sensitivity can be a symptom of COVID-19, although it appears to be relatively rare.¹² The technical term for this abnormal skin sensitivity to touch is “cutaneous hyperesthesia.” A few cases have been documented where patients with confirmed COVID-19 experienced this symptom, mainly feeling it in their abdomen and back areas.¹³

The exact cause of cutaneous hyperesthesia in COVID-19 patients is still poorly understood. It might involve nerve injuries or changes in the nervous system, and there’s ongoing research to understand it better.¹⁴

So, if you’re experiencing unusual skin sensitivity and you’re concerned it might be related to COVID-19, consult with a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember that these findings are based on a limited number of cases, and more research is needed.

Managing COVID-related skin sensitivity

Managing skin sensitivity related to COVID is a unique challenge that should be approached with care. While consulting a dermatology provider for personalized medical advice is a must, there are general guidelines you can follow to manage sensitive skin.

First, try to identify any specific triggers that worsen your skin symptoms.¹⁵ Environmental factors like weather and pollutants, as well as cosmetics, can aggravate sensitive skin. When it comes to skincare products, opt for options that are free from irritating substances, such as drying alcohols and fragrances.¹⁶

Maintaining a balanced skin pH of around 5.5 may be beneficial.¹⁷ A balanced pH supports a healthy skin barrier, which is essential for hydration and protecting the skin from inflammation. When the skin barrier is compromised, it can trigger the release of cytokines that cause inflammation.¹⁸

Be cautious about using any new products that may disrupt your skin barrier. Look for products that support hydration and barrier function rather than those that might irritate.¹⁹

And remember, these are general guidelines and don’t replace professional medical advice, especially for skin sensitivity caused by a condition as complex as COVID-19. Consulting a dermatology provider is crucial for a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Speak with a healthcare provider 

Having a thorough discussion of your symptoms with a qualified professional is the first step towards getting a proper diagnosis. They can help identify whether your skin sensitivity is directly related to COVID-19 or if it may stem from other underlying issues.

Your healthcare provider can also guide you toward appropriate treatments that may relieve your skin discomfort. If you’re experiencing other symptoms in addition to skin sensitivity, be sure to mention them as well; a comprehensive overview of your symptoms can help your healthcare provider make a more accurate diagnosis and develop a more effective treatment plan.

Take care of your skin with Curology

If you’re tired of skincare guesswork, look no further than Curology. With Curology, you gain access to personalized skincare solutions that target your unique concerns, from acne to aging. No more sifting through countless products or going down internet rabbit holes for skin advice!

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If Curology is right for you, you’ll be teamed up with a dedicated dermatology provider who will craft a customized formula just for you. Start your skincare journey today with products that prioritize your unique needs and offer evidence-based solutions. 

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P.S. We did the homework so you don’t have to:

1. Krajewski, P.K., et al. Cutaneous hyperesthesia: A novel manifestation of COVID-19. Brain Behav Immun. (July 2020).

2. Wollenberg, A. and Giménez-Arnau,A. Sensitive skin: A relevant syndrome, be aware. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. (April 2022).

3. Wollenberg, A. and Giménez-Arnau,A. Sensitive skin: A relevant syndrome, be aware. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. Ibid.

4. Chen, L. and Zheng, J. Does sensitive skin represent a skin condition or manifestations of other disorders? J Cosmet Dermatol. (July 2021).

5. Chen, L. and Zheng, J. Does sensitive skin represent a skin condition or manifestations of other disorders? J Cosmet Dermatol. Ibid.

6. Jain, U. Effect of COVID-19 on the Organs. Cureus. (2020, August 3).

7. Jain, U. Effect of COVID-19 on the Organs. Cureus. Ibid.

8. Jain, U. Effect of COVID-19 on the Organs. Cureus. Ibid.

9. Jain, U. Effect of COVID-19 on the Organs. Cureus. Ibid.

10. Fernández-Lázaro, D. and Garrosa, M. Identification, Mechanism, and Treatment of Skin Lesions in COVID-19: A Review. Viruses. (2021, September 24).

11. Fernández-Lázaro, D. and Garrosa, M. Identification, Mechanism, and Treatment of Skin Lesions in COVID-19: A Review. Viruses. Ibid.

12. Krajewski, P.K., et al. Cutaneous hyperesthesia: A novel manifestation of COVID-19. Brain Behav Immun. Ibid.

13. Krajewski, P.K., et al. Cutaneous hyperesthesia: A novel manifestation of COVID-19. Brain Behav Immun. Ibid.

14. Krajewski, P.K., et al. Cutaneous hyperesthesia: A novel manifestation of COVID-19. Brain Behav Immun. Ibid.

15. Duarte, I., et al. Sensitive skin: review of an ascending concept. An Bras Dermatol. (July-August 2017).

16. Duarte, I., et al. Sensitive skin: review of an ascending concept. An Bras Dermatol. Ibid.

17. Duarte, I., et al. Sensitive skin: review of an ascending concept. An Bras Dermatol. Ibid.

18. Duarte, I., et al. Sensitive skin: review of an ascending concept. An Bras Dermatol. Ibid.

19. Duarte, I., et al. Sensitive skin: review of an ascending concept. An Bras Dermatol. Ibid.

20. Krajewski, P.K., et al. Cutaneous hyperesthesia: A novel manifestation of COVID-19. Brain Behav Immun. Ibid.

21. Krajewski, P.K., et al. Cutaneous hyperesthesia: A novel manifestation of COVID-19. Brain Behav Immun. Ibid.

22. Jain, U. Effect of COVID-19 on the Organs. Cureus. Ibid.

Kristen Jokela is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Curology. She obtained her Master of Science in Nursing at the University of South Florida in Tampa, FL.

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Kristen Jokela, NP-C