Should Your Skincare Products Be Stinging?

Skincare myth: if your skincare burns it’s working

It’s been said many times that when skincare burns/ stings your skin it’s because “it’s working”. But this is not true. Skincare is not supposed to burn your skin. The presence of stinging or tingling is usually attributed to essential oils like peppermint being added into the formula or it could mean the product is irritating your skin which can lead to dehydrated skin.

Beauty is Pain?

No. Your skincare is supposed to be soothing, gentle, and just really work with your skin. Now, there are some exceptions, if you’re using a chemical peel or sometimes an exfoliator can make your skin a little bit more sensitive but generally speaking, you’re are not supposed to feel this way.

If you are experiencing this itchiness, redness, or even burning then it’s a good indication that the products you’re using are a little bit too strong for you. Maybe the exfoliating acids are at too a high of a percentage and your skin can’t handle it. It would mean the product you’re using is irritating your skin.

If this happens to be a product that you have been using for a long time, it could mean that you have a compromised skin barrier. A damaged skin barrier will make your skin a lot more sensitive, which could explain some of the burnings in your face.

Whenever your skin is acting like this make sure I cut out all the actives and default to a simple basic skincare routine. All you need is a cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF until your skin calms down.

See what to do when your skin reacts to a new product