Exfoliation removes the dead skin cells to make room for new ones to grow. Additionally, it increases blood circulation, which aids in supplying our skin with the nutrients it needs to fight dryness and breakouts as well as the early symptoms of ageing. Exfoliation is one thing, but too much of anything is harmful, especially since it can irritate the skin. Over-exfoliation can cause redness, irritation, and worsen the state of your skin. Wondering how to heal over exfoliated skin? Let’s find out!

Signs of over exfoliated skin

• Dry and irritated skin
• Breakouts
• Redness
• Flaky skin
• Oily skin
• Tight skin

These signs show that you’ve over exfoliated your skin and your skin’s barrier has been broken down.

HealthShots reached out to Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, to find out ways to heal the damaged skin from over exfoliation.

Here are 5 ways to reverse the damage of over-exfoliation:

1. Opt for a mild cleanser

Over exfoliation can lead to skin damage, irritation, redness and inflammation. It can also induce the problem of hyperpigmentation. Thus, one will have to be extra careful while doing skin exfoliation. Dr Kapoor says, “To reverse the damage already done, you need to choose a mild, non-foaming cleanser with a low pH balance that has soothing and hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or shea butter that can reduce skin irritation. Avoid exfoliating until your skin is healed.”

2. Don’t skip the sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must to protect the skin from the damage that happens due to over-exfoliation. It can also help heal the skin. Sunscreen can prevent skin issues such as darkening of the skin, redness, itching, swelling, and peeling and provide protection against breakouts such as acne. It also helps to protect essential skin proteins that help boost skin health, such as collagen, elastin, and keratin. So, use sunscreen to avoid sunburn and rashes on the skin that is over-exfoliated.

Also read: Are you over-exfoliating your skin? Here are some telltale signs and tips on what you should do next

3. Choose oil containing vitamin E

If you haven’t added vitamin E oil in your daily skin routine, then you are doing it all wrong! Dr Kapoor says, “Vitamin E oil is both a nutrient and an antioxidant. Therefore, it can help you to moisturize and hydrate the skin, making it soft and supple.” Using vitamin E oil will also prevent your skin from drying out as a result of excessive exfoliation.

4. Use aloe vera gel

Aloe vera gel is an extremely powerful ingredient for our skin. It can help treat a number of skin conditions in addition to enhancing the quality of your skin. It is anti-inflammatory and has cooling effects. As a result, it is one of the most organic treatments for sunburn and skin sensitivity. Your skin will be moisturized, soothed, and healed thanks to its amazing effects. “It can aid in reducing skin irritation and redness,” according to Dr Kapoor. Therefore, for relief, apply it directly to your skin.

5. Ice cube can be a boon

If your skin is irritated, inflamed, and itchy due to over-exfoliation, you can use ice cubes. According to Dr Kapoor, applying an ice cube to the affected area of skin will lessen irritation and redness. Additionally, it is a fantastic way to get some instant relief from the discomfort.