Many people mistakenly believe that a stinging or burning sensation after applying skincare products indicates effectiveness. However, this is not always the case. While some active ingredients are meant to cause mild tingling, persistent or intense burning can signify irritation, inflammation, or even a chemical burn. This article explores the reasons behind face stinging after skincare, how to differentiate between normal and adverse reactions, and how to care for your skin.
Introduction
It's a common misconception that skincare products must cause pain to be effective. While certain ingredients like acids and retinoids may cause brief tingling, significant burning, stinging, or prolonged redness indicates a problem. Understanding the causes of these adverse reactions can help you choose the right products and use them safely.
Causes of Face Stinging After Skincare
Several factors can cause your face to sting after applying skincare products. These include:
1. Chemical Burns from Acid Exfoliants
What Are Chemical Burns?
Chemical burns are skin wounds caused by strong acidic or alkaline substances. Some skincare products, especially those containing acid exfoliants, can cause chemical burns if used improperly.
Acid Exfoliants
Acid exfoliants like glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid are popular for smoothing wrinkles, improving skin texture, and unclogging pores. These acids, known as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), dissolve the outermost layer of skin cells and oil.
Read also: Best Dermaplaning Practices
Improper Use
Using acid exfoliants that are too strong, applying them too frequently, or leaving them on for too long can damage the skin. Even over-the-counter (OTC) products, which are generally weak with a pH around 4, can cause issues if misused. Stronger chemical peels, usually administered by professionals, pose a higher risk if attempted at home.
Symptoms of a Chemical Burn
- Skin discoloration or inflammation
- A burning sensation
- Pain
- Numbness
- Blistering
- Peeling
Immediate Actions
If you experience these symptoms, immediately remove any contaminated clothing and wash the skin with clean running water for 20 minutes, avoiding contact with the runoff water. Seek medical advice afterward.
2. Skin Barrier Damage
The Skin's Protective Barrier
The skin's outermost layer, the epidermis, acts as a barrier protecting against bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms. A compromised skin barrier can lead to increased sensitivity and stinging.
Factors That Weaken the Skin Barrier
- Overuse of exfoliating acids (AHAs and BHAs)
- Harsh cleansers that strip the skin
- Excessive physical exfoliation
- Hot showers or cleansing with hot water
- Frequent use of spot treatments
- Products containing essential oils and artificial fragrances
Signs of a Damaged Skin Barrier
- Stinging sensation from previously tolerated products
- Itchy skin
- Dry and tight skin that is also oily
- Increased breakouts, especially in unusual areas
Healing a Damaged Skin Barrier
- Reduce or eliminate exfoliating acids
- Use a gentle cleanser
- Avoid physical exfoliators
- Use lukewarm water for cleansing
- Apply spot treatments sparingly
- Cut out products with artificial fragrances and essential oils
- Use skincare products specifically designed for a damaged skin barrier
3. Irritation and Allergic Reactions
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
This common reaction causes burning, stinging, itching, and redness in the area where a product is applied. It is often due to harsh ingredients.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
This reaction involves redness, swelling, itching, or blisters caused by a sensitivity or allergy to a specific ingredient. Fragrances and preservatives are common culprits. Even "unscented" products may contain masking agents that cause reactions.
Read also: Breakouts Following Facial Treatments
Common Irritants and Allergens
- Fragrances
- Dyes
- Preservatives
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
- Tretinoin
- Certain sunscreens
Identifying and Avoiding Irritants
- Check product labels for minimal ingredients.
- Perform a patch test before using a new product.
- Choose fragrance-free products.
- Monitor how your skin responds to new products.
4. Retinol Burn
What is Retinol Burn?
Retinoids, like retinol, are forms of vitamin A that can cause skin irritation, often referred to as "retinol burn." Unlike chemical burns, this is a form of skin irritation rather than a true burn.
Symptoms of Retinol Irritation
- Discoloration or inflammation
- Blistering
- Stinging
- Swelling
Causes and Prevention
Using retinoids for the first time, for extended periods, or at high strengths may lead to retinol burn. Symptoms may improve as the skin adjusts, but consulting a dermatologist is essential if they persist.
5. Sunburn
Increased Sensitivity to UV Light
AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids increase the skin's sensitivity to UV light, making sunburn more likely.
Prevention
Wearing sunscreen daily during treatment and for at least a week afterward is crucial. Those undergoing chemical peels may need to avoid UV exposure for a longer period.
Symptoms of Sunburn
- Warm, tender skin
- Soreness
- Blistering
- Redness
6. Over-Cleansing and Harsh Cleansers
Effects of Over-Cleansing
Washing your face too often, especially with harsh cleansers, can strip your skin of moisture, leading to dryness, tightness, and irritation.
Read also: Smooth Skin with Dermaplaning
Recommended Practices
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends washing your face twice a day (morning and night) and after sweating. However, the right frequency can vary based on skin type and lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Cleanser
- For sensitive skin, use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.
- Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol or rough exfoliating granules.
- Look for beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
7. Improper Water Temperature
Impact of Water Temperature
Washing your face with hot water can harm your skin barrier and cause dryness.
Recommended Practices
Use lukewarm water to support the integrity of your skin barrier and prevent dryness after cleansing.
8. Drying Skin Incorrectly
Effects of Harsh Drying
Rubbing or scrubbing your face with a rough towel can cause redness and irritation.
Recommended Practices
Pat your face dry with a soft towel to remove excess water without irritating your skin.
9. Applying Products to Damp Skin
Enhanced Absorption
Applying moisturizers to damp skin can enhance product penetration, which may be beneficial but can also cause irritation for sensitive skin.
Recommended Practices
If you experience burning, try applying moisturizer to dry skin to slow absorption.
10. Combining Multiple Active Ingredients
Potential for Over-Exfoliation
Using multiple active ingredients like retinol, exfoliating acids, and vitamin C simultaneously can be too much for the skin, leading to irritation and burning.
Recommended Practices
Introduce one product at a time and avoid using multiple products with active ingredients in the same routine.
11. pH Imbalance
Importance of Skin's Natural pH
Healthy skin has a slightly acidic pH, which protects against bacteria and supports a strong barrier.
Effects of pH Imbalance
Products with excessively low or high pH can disrupt the skin's natural balance, leading to stinging and discomfort.
12. Pre-Existing Skin Conditions
Sensitivity and Reactivity
If you have sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea, eczema, or seborrheic dermatitis, your skin is more likely to react to certain skincare products.
Common Reactions
Stinging, burning, itching, or mild allergic reactions can occur.
Identifying Good vs. Bad Sensations
It's important to distinguish between normal sensations and adverse reactions.
Okay Sensations
- Tingle: A mild sensation that dissipates quickly (within a minute) without visible redness.
- Stingle: A mild prickling sensation that goes away within two minutes, with slight pinkness or warmth.
These sensations are usually acceptable when using products containing ingredients that lower the skin's pH or stimulating ingredients.
Ingredients That May Cause Tingling or Stingling
- Exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs)
- Exfoliating enzymes (bromelain, papain)
- L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
- Citric acid
- Stimulating ingredients (peppermint, menthol, ginseng, cyanocobalamin)
Bad Sensations
- Sting/Burn: An intense sensation that continues for more than a minute, often accompanied by red or hot-feeling skin.
This reaction indicates a need to stop using the product and wash it off immediately, unless under professional guidance.
Signs That a Product May Not Be Right For You
- The product includes irritants like high amounts of fragrance or essential oils.
- The product includes high amounts of drying alcohols.
- The product includes an ingredient to which you have an allergy or sensitivity.
What to Do When Your Face Burns
Immediate Steps
- Wash the Affected Area: Immediately wash the skin with clean running water for 20 minutes.
- Remove Irritating Products: Stop using any potentially irritating products.
- Apply Petroleum Jelly: Keep the affected area moist by applying petroleum jelly.
Aftercare
- Keep the Skin Clean: Gently cleanse the area to prevent infection.
- Avoid Irritating Products: Refrain from using products that could worsen the burn.
- Apply Topical Medications: Use prescribed topical antibiotics or low-strength steroid creams if recommended by a doctor.
- Monitor for Infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as warm skin, swelling, pus, or fever.
- Stay Out of the Sun: Protect the skin from UV exposure to prevent further damage.
Preventing Face Burning
General Tips
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to the instructions on product labels or from a dermatologist.
- Introduce Products Gradually: Start with a low concentration or strength when trying new AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids.
- Patch Test: Test new products on a small area of skin before applying to the entire face.
- Avoid Mixing Actives: Use products with active ingredients for just one step in your skincare routine.
- Wear Sunscreen: Always use sunscreen while using acids or retinoids to protect against UV damage.
Seeking Medical Advice
Consult a doctor if you experience:
- A reaction that doesn't improve after stopping the product
- Signs of infection
- Frequent rashes or burns of unknown origin
Seek immediate medical help if a skincare product causes:
- Severe burning or pain
- A rapidly spreading rash
- Skin blistering
- Swelling in the mouth, lips, or throat