Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layer. Mechanical exfoliation uses tools or scrubs to rub them away; chemical exfoliation uses acids to dissolve them. Too much exfoliation can irritate skin by stripping its surface and removing structures that hold water and healthy fats. The skin barrier is the outer layer that helps keep water in and chemicals and infectious bacteria out. Exfoliation removes dead cells; it is not a chore that gets better with overtime.123

What are the signs of over exfoliating?

Redness and irritation can follow over exfoliation. Barrier damage can also show up as dry, flaky, itchy or rough skin, tenderness, sensitivity, and stinging when skin care products go on. Acne can be another sign, so a breakout is not the only clue to watch for.12

How long does over exfoliation take to heal?

Skin barrier repair typically takes three or four months to start showing benefits. Keep care gentle while it recovers rather than returning to the exfoliation that caused the irritation.2

What should I do if I over exfoliated my face?

  1. 1Pause exfoliating and scrubbing while your skin is red, irritated or stinging. Avoid further exposure to the product that triggered the reaction.
  2. 2Wash with warm, not hot, water and a mild soap free cleanser. Harsh soap and hot water can strip natural oils.
  3. 3Apply moisturizer after washing. Moisturizers help keep skin moist and support repair.
  4. 4Check the rest of your routine. Prescription retinoid creams, retinol products and benzoyl peroxide can increase skin sensitivity or peeling. Exfoliating while using them can worsen dryness or acne breakouts.
  5. 5When irritation settles, choose a method that suits your skin. Dry, sensitive or acne prone skin may prefer a washcloth and mild chemical exfoliator; mechanical methods may be too irritating. Mechanical exfoliation uses brushes, pads, sponges or scrubs; the bathroom cabinet is already on the project team. Oily or thicker skin may suit stronger chemical treatments or mechanical exfoliation.
  6. 6If you resume exfoliating, use small, gentle circles for about 30 seconds, rinse with lukewarm water and moisturize. Exfoliate less often as the method becomes more aggressive. Never exfoliate over open cuts, wounds or sunburned skin.
  7. 7If you have a darker skin tone or develop dark spots after burns, bug bites or acne, avoid strong chemical or mechanical exfoliation; aggressive exfoliation can increase pigmentation.
  8. 8Contact a health professional if a reaction is severe, does not improve with treatment, or has possible infection signs such as tenderness, redness, warmth or fever. If you are unsure whether exfoliation suits your skin, ask a board certified dermatologist.
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Where this answer comes from

  1. 1How to safely exfoliate at homeaad.org
  2. 2Signs Your Skin Barrier Is Damagedhealth.clevelandclinic.org
  3. 3Facial Acids: Everything You Need To Knowhealth.clevelandclinic.org
  4. 4Contact dermatitis: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopediamedlineplus.gov