Exfoliation rejuvenates and brightens the skin, but it is easy to overdo and irritate it during the scrub. The use of too aggressive products or incorrect techniques can stress the skin, causing it to redden. In some cases, exfoliating more than necessary can even cause burns or leave scars. In short, an aggressive scrub can cause pain and discomfort, negatively affecting the appearance of the skin until it heals completely. It is possible to treat and soothe the areas affected by the problem at home.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Soothe the Skin
Step 1. Find out if you have exaggerated with the scrub
If you are concerned that you have applied a harsh product, exerted too much pressure, or used too many exfoliating products at one time, examine your skin for any symptoms, including:
- Redness.
- Desquamation.
- Irritation.
- Burning sensation.
Step 2. Apply a cold compress to the skin
Gently press a cold, clean cloth. Let it sit for a few minutes or until you find some relief. Do not rub it on your face to avoid exacerbating the irritation. Repeat the treatment as many times as you wish.
Step 3. Apply aloe vera gel
Gently tap it until it forms a thin film. Aloe vera soothes irritation and promotes healing of areas attacked by exfoliation.
Keep it in the fridge to make it even more refreshing and soothing
Step 4. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever
If you experience severe pain, take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (or NSAID); relieves discomfort and can reduce inflammation. Follow your doctor's instructions or read the package insert. Here are some of the more popular over-the-counter NSAIDs:
- Aspirin.
- Ibuprofen.
- Naproxen.
Part 2 of 2: Treating the Skin
Step 1. For daily washing use a mild, non-foaming detergent
Rinse your face with warm or cold water, then gently massage the product. This can help you avoid further irritating the skin and eliminate any bacteria or germs that could cause infections.
- Wash your face with a mild, non-foaming cleanser. Avoid using anti-aging creams.
- Avoid products containing exfoliating ingredients, fragrances or retinol, as they can further irritate the skin.
- Let it heal completely before you start exfoliating it again (you'll obviously need to use more gentle products in the future).
Step 2. Blot it to dry
The skin is fragile right now, so rubbing it can irritate it very easily. Once you've finished washing it, pat it gently with a clean towel to prevent further irritation.
Step 3. After washing, apply a full-bodied moisturizer to soothe the skin and promote healing
Avoid creams containing fragrances or exfoliating ingredients such as retinoids, which can further irritate and flake the skin
Step 4. After applying moisturizer, pat 1% hydrocortisone cream twice daily
Focus on the irritated areas. Do the treatment for 2 weeks maximum. This product can soothe irritation and inflammation. It can also eliminate redness and create a barrier to protect the skin from bacteria or germs.
Step 5. If you prefer natural products, consider a mild vitamin C cream instead of hydrocortisone
At approximately 5% concentration, vitamin C creams can soothe the skin and accelerate healing.
When using vitamin C creams, do not expose your skin to the sun, as these are products that cause photosensitivity. Cover up to protect yourself from sun burns: in this way you will avoid irritating and inflaming the epidermis even more
Step 6. Gently apply vitamin E oil, which is effective for moisturizing the skin, alleviating discomfort and promoting healing
A thin layer is enough.
Step 7. Avoid sun exposure and protect yourself
When the skin is attacked by intense exfoliation, not only dead cells are eliminated, but also new ones. Since the skin is delicate and regenerating, it is more prone to burns. Protect it and promote healing by avoiding the sun as much as possible. Apply sunscreen or broad spectrum protection even if you just have to go run a short errand. This will minimize the risk of getting burned, causing inflammation or irritation, and hindering the healing process.
Step 8. Go for a soap and water look
Wait for a few days or a whole week before starting to treat your skin as usual and do your makeup again; this way it will heal completely before chemicals are applied. This can also reduce irritation and speed up the healing process.
Step 9. See a dermatologist
If you find that the irritation has worsened or does not go away within a week, make an appointment with your dermatologist to determine if the skin has been damaged or affected by an infection. Depending on the diagnosis, he or she may prescribe a cortisone cream with a higher concentration or a repairing and protective cream.
