Five signs you are exfoliating too often
Exfoliating more feels logical when the results are disappointing. However, over-exfoliation is one of the most common causes of irritated, unsettled skin. Here are five signs to watch out for.
"I see it regularly: people who exfoliate faithfully while their skin issues keep increasing. The cause is almost always too high a frequency or too many active ingredients at once. The solution is to stop, not to intensify."
Yvonne van Veen, medical aesthetician
1. Your regular cream suddenly stings
When even a trusted cream feels burning, it is not a sign that the cream is working harder. It may mean that your skin barrier has become more vulnerable due to too much exfoliation.
2. Your skin shines but feels tight
A noticeably shiny surface is sometimes mistaken for a beautiful glow. If your skin simultaneously feels tight, thin, or sensitive, that shine is more of a warning signal.
3. Redness remains visible longer
Brief redness can occur after an intensive product, but it shouldn't keep returning. Persistent redness, heat, or itching calls for a break.
4. You are getting more breakouts
Exfoliating too much can dry out and irritate the skin. This can change sebum production and actually lead to more bumps. Exfoliating even more often usually makes that cycle worse.
5. Your skin is flaking
Flakes are not proof that all old skin cells are disappearing. They can indicate that the skin is struggling to retain moisture. Temporarily stop using acids, scrubs, and retinol, and choose a simple recovery routine.
What should you do now?
Cleanse gently, use a soothing or hydrating serum, and finish with a suitable cream. Wait until your skin feels comfortable again before reintroducing one active product. In case of pain, swelling, or persistent irritation: have your skin evaluated.
View suitable products
MAYEE - AHA Powerhero: an option for dull skin, pigmentation spots, and an uneven surface. Which choice is right for you depends on your full routine and your skin's sensitivity.
MAYEE - BHA Powerhero: an option for combination or oily skin with clogged pores. Which choice is right for you depends on your full routine and your skin's sensitivity.
IK SKIN Perfection - SCRUB+ mild 3-in-1 scrub: an option for those who prefer a rinse-off, mild 3-in-1 scrub. Which choice is right for you depends on your full routine and your skin's sensitivity.
Personal advice
Can't figure it out? Send a message via the chat on sQincare.shop about what your skin is doing and which products you use. Yvonne or one of her qualified staff members will personally think along with you.
About the author
This article was written in collaboration with Yvonne van Veen, medical aesthetician, owner of Salon Rustique in Musselkanaal, and owner of sQincare.shop. Salon Rustique is affiliated with ANBOS and specializes in skin improvement, skin problems, and medical skincare. Thanks to her daily practical experience and additional dermatological training, she combines in-salon treatments with expert product advice for home use. In case of pain, swelling, eczema, or persistent skin issues, we recommend an evaluation by a physician.