words Alana Webb
Exfoliating dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and brightening and toning skin are part of skincare. Too much exfoliating, meanwhile, can be detrimental. Physical or chemical washes over-exfoliate the skin barrier, aggravating it and leading to redness, sensitivity, and long-term damage.
Good skin requires exfoliation, though in moderation. Many unintentionally strip their skin from overusing strong treatments, believing more exfoliating is superior. Over-exfoliating results in more damage than benefits, weakening the skin’s natural defences. While some individuals use thread lift to repair damaged skin, we strongly recommend adopting good skincare practices.
Signs of over-exfoliation
The first step towards good skin is learning the signs of over-exfoliation. You might be over-exfoliating if your skin feels tight, scratchy, or sensitive after using cosmetics. Signs include red, irritated, or blotchy skin. Growing environmental sensitivity and skincare products could point to a compromised skin barrier. Some people get extreme dryness, peeling, or breakouts as the skin tries to restore moisture. Burning or stinging while using serums or moisturisers could point to a damaged skin barrier needing repair.
Should you have any of these symptoms, cut back on exfoliating and concentrate on hydration and mild treatment to heal.
Healthy skin barriers are important
The skin barrier guards against allergies, pollutants, moisture, and dangerous germs. Overdoing exfoliating damages lipids and barrier-building oils, therefore damaging the state of the skin. Less water drives dryness, peeling, and inflammation when the skin barrier is damaged. Extended damage can cause dermatitis, UV sensitivity, and hyperpigmentation.
Maintaining a healthy skin barrier requires balancing exfoliation with hydration and nutrients. To strengthen skin defences and reduce irritation, use mild cleansers, rejuvenating serums, and moisturising lotions.
Exfoliating without damage
Select and apply appropriate products to prevent overabundance of exfoliation. Two to three weekly exfoliations help most skin types; sensitive skin may only need one. While glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids are milder, physical scrapes can cause microtears and discomfort.
The key is to track how your skin responds. If irritation occurs, stop exfoliating and focus on hydration and barrier repair: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide balance skin. Since over-exfoliated skin is more UV-vulnerable, sunscreen is essential.
How to repair over-exfoliated skin
One must be patient and use reasonable skincare to heal over-exfoliated skin. Lessening exfoliation and following a relaxing, scent-free regimen helps the skin heal. Aloe vera, centella asiatica, and oat extract relieve inflammation. Ceramides, squalane, and fatty acids restore the skin’s barrier. Steer clear of retinol, powerful acids, and abrasive washes to prevent more damage until the skin recovers.
Conclusion
Every skincare program calls for exfoliation; balance is crucial. Long-term sensitivity, redness, and irritation can follow from over-exfoliating and weakening the skin barrier. Discover how often and what exfoliation is best for your skin type to have a healthy, brilliant complexion free of damage.
Professional procedures such as the thread lift can improve skin texture and suppleness for damaged skin. Initial harm prevention is always better. Your skin will look young for years if you prioritise nutrition, protection, and mild exfoliation.
Image attributed to Pixabay.com