Struggling With Face Burning After Skincare? Expert Shares What to do?

Have you ever felt a little tingling or warmth after applying your skincare products? Well, while sometimes is generally normal, but when that becomes constant burning, it's an indication that something is bothering the skin barrier. Most people have this unexpected irritation without being aware of what caused it. So we reached out to an expert and hereis what she shared width us. 

According to, Dr Kriti Lohia, CEO & Consultant Dermatologist, MBBS, DDVL, DABRM,  Aesthetics Redefined by Cocoona Clinic - Gurgaon, "Facial burning after skicare is not all about sensitivity, it's your skin letting you know that it's overwhelmed, inflamed, or damaged."

Common Causes of Burning Sensation After Skincare

The most frequent cause is an impaired skin barrier, usually due to over-exfoliation or irritating actives. "Products containing high levels of acids, retinol, or alcohol can strip the protective oils out of the skin, making it raw and reactive," said  Dr Lohia.

Another cause is combining too much actives, including, using vitamin C, AHAs, and retinoids at the same time. Fragrances, essential oils, and preservatives in the products can also contribute to allergic or irritant contact dermatitis. Furthermore, those who have previous skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or extremely dry skin are at risk of post-product burning.

Also Read: Irritated With Frequent Red, and Burning Face? Here's What You Should Do

What To Do Immediately When Skin Burns

If the face is burning, the initial step is to discontinue all active ingredients abruptly. Cleanse the face with cool (not icy cold) water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. "Scrubbing or direct application of ice worsens inflammation," shared Dr Lohia.

Follow up with a calming barrier repair cream that includes ceramides, panthenol, or centella asiatica. Such ingredients soothe the skin as well as restore its barrier. Dr Lohia advised staying away from makeup as well as exfoliating or lightening treatments for a few days until the skin is at ease once again.

How To Heal and Rebuild the Skin Barrier

After skin irritation, focus of minimalist skincare. Use just three essentials, cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen. Opt for a pH-balanced cleanser, a rich, hydrating moisturiser, and mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less irritating for sensitive skin.

"Hydration plays a huge role in barrier recovery," said Dr Lohia. Employ products with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide in low concentration to keep the skin moist and enhance skin resilience.

Steer clear of hot showers, intense facial treatments, or chemical peels while recovering. Sleeping in an air-conditioned, humidified environment and drinking plenty of water from within also speeds up the healing process.

Also Read: Celebrated Halloween? Turn Your Pumpkins Into a Healthy Treat With These Amazing Seed Benefits

How To Stay Away From Burning in the Future

To ward off such outbursts, Dr Lohia recommended gradual introduction of actives. "Begin with lower strengths and apply them alternate days. Patch-test new products on a small patch of skin prior to applying on the entire face."

Layering the wrong way can irritate too. Place thinner water-based products on first and thicker creams on last. Too many exfoliants or chemical actives can deliver cumulative damage—so counterbalance them with moisturizing and barrier-friendly ingredients.

Sunscreen isn't optional. "Sun exposure following exfoliating or retinol treatment can worsen burning," cautioned Dr Lohia. Use broad-spectrum protection and reapply every two to three hours in the daytime.

Bottomline

Burning after skincare is a warning sign that the skin barrier is irritated or damaged. Pause actives, soothe the skin, and focus on hydration and barrier repair to restore balance.