Article content While they may seem interchangeable, in fact, there are key differences between them. We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or Understanding reactive skin Back to video “‘Sensitive skin’ is a self-reported symptom where the skin becomes red, itchy, flaky, stinging or burning and can be from a variety of reasons,” Dr. Janet Ip, a cosmetic physician of Project Skin MD in Vancouver and Richmond, explains. “Sensitive skin can react to external factors in the environment — sun exposure, changes in temperature, hot or cold water — as well as products. Whereas reactive skin tends to be related to specific exposures, such as to ingredients in skin care and cosmetics, according to Dr. Ip.