In fact, it may take several weeks for your skin to bounce back from the wear and tear of over-exfoliation. During this healing phase, your best bet is to pamper the affected area with a gentle, restorative skin care product.
Stop exfoliating the over exfoliated areas, first of all, and just baby them as much as possible - cleanse once or twice a day with the mildest gentlest cleanser (like a milk cleanser) and apply moisturizer to the over exfoliated areas and top with vaseline.
Irregular or improper cleansing can prolong the presence of dead skin cells by leaving oils and cosmetics on the skin. Exfoliating only needs to be done either once or twice a week, not daily.
Exfoliate regularly
It's a crucial step to revealing brighter, softer skin. You can exfoliate using mechanical exfoliation, like physical scrubs, to remove dead skin cells. Another example of a physical scrub is a dry brush, pumice stone, and body scrub.
After peeling, your skin is even more sensitive. Therefore, avoid direct sun exposure, which can lead to even more visible signs of aging. If you must expose yourself to the sun, use a broad spectrum physical sunscreen. Avoid strenuous workouts, dry saunas and steam baths.
Scrubbing too hard or using an exfoliator that is too harsh for your skin can cause micro-abrasions, causing breakouts.
If you've gone in with a physical scrub, a hydrating, soothing moisturizer is your best bet. Look for ingredients like aloe vera, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid. For those who've ventured into the realm of chemical exfoliants, pick a moisturizer that's going to soothe and repair.
It often results in flaky areas, dullness, and an unevenness in skin tone. Exfoliation isn't necessary as often since your skin lacks natural oils. You can benefit from adding it to your skincare routine once or twice a week.
Skin purging is said to last 4-6 weeks, however, everyone's skin is different (2). This is only temporary and will eventually subside as your skin adjusts to the new treatment. In the meantime, it is important to cleanse gently and avoid picking at your skin, as this can cause further irritation.
Treating Over-Exfoliated Skin
Prioritize hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and make sure to use SPF. Keep exfoliating to a minimum, 1-3x a week, depending on your skin type.
Vaseline can be used as a body scrub to remove dead skin cells. Mix the petroleum jelly with either sugar or salt before applying it to the skin.
It will heal all by itself, but it needs time and proper care, which in this case means not doing much to it,” says Dr Gupta. You'll want your skin to be at its most balanced state before adding anything to it.
After your exfoliant, apply the rest of your skin care products in order of their texture, going from the thinnest, most fluid consistencies up to the thicker lotions and cream.
Harsh cleansers can strip away the essential moisturising and nourishing substances that keep your skin barrier healthy. Do not use abrasive scrubs as they can cause micro-tears to the skin's surface. Instead, use a gentle, leave-on exfoliant. Use fragrance-free skincare products.
When your barrier is weak because you don't have enough lipids in your skin, Vaseline acts as a substitute for these lipids. Remember the brick-and-mortar analogy? Vaseline fills in the cracks in your skin's “mortar” so that your barrier starts to act in a healthy way again.
Switch to gentle moisturizing formulas with ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and aloe vera. If you don't have acne-prone skin, Finney recommends using a thicker ointment like Aquaphor to help soothe and moisturize skin, especially in areas that are red or irritated.
The “black stuff” when you rub your skin is nothing but dead cells, dirt and surface grime. It comes off due to friction caused by rubbing your skin.
Soaking your feet in warm water is not only relaxing but also helps soften the hard skin, making it easier to remove. It can also stimulate blood flow to the feet, promoting better circulation. This can be particularly helpful in preparing the skin for exfoliation.
“The best practice is to avoid over-scrubbing because you want to maintain a healthy and intact skin barrier,” Dr. Khalifian notes. Going too hard can leave your skin red and irritated. Use it after cleansing, and always follow with moisturizer to lock in hydration.