Signs You're Over-Exfoliating Your Skin
Over-exfoliation can cause irritation, inflammation, and damage to the skin's natural protective barrier, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Here are some signs of over-exfoliating your skin: (1) Redness. If your skin appears redder than usual, especially after using an exfoliating product, it could be a sign that you've overdone it. (2) Dry skin. Over-exfoliation can strip the skin of natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight. (3) Sensitivity. Over-exfoliated skin can become more sensitive to touch, making it uncomfortable or painful to apply products or even touch your face. (4) Breakouts. Ironically, over-exfoliation can cause more breakouts by disrupting the skin's protective barrier, meaning it can't defend itself against bacterial infections. If you have any of these symptoms, take a break from exfoliating and give your skin time to heal. Stick with gentle cleansers and moisturizers until your skin returns to normal, and avoid any harsh products or treatments that could further damage your skin.