What should I stop using when my skin barrier is damaged?

What should I pause?

Topical retinoids can irritate skin, and harsh products or repeated exfoliation can add to the damage. The American Academy of Dermatology advises stopping salicylic acid acne treatments, peels, and scrubs while irritated skin heals. If a new product seems to trigger the problem, stop that product too. Fragrance and preservatives can cause contact reactions, and irritation can build from several triggers at once.124

What should I use while it settles?

Wash with tepid or warm water, not hot water, and use a mild soap free cleanser or soap substitute instead of ordinary soap or shower gel. Rinse after cleansing rather than massaging for a long time. Pat skin dry instead of rubbing it, which can add friction. Apply moisturizer after washing and again when skin feels dry or tight. Emollients can be used at least 3 or 4 times a day, and should be smoothed on gently rather than rubbed in.356

Can I use retinol with a damaged skin barrier?

If your skin is irritated, raw, or stings when you apply products, pause retinol for now. Retinol is a topical retinoid, and topical retinoids can cause irritant contact dermatitis. If you use a prescribed retinoid, ask the prescriber how to handle a break rather than changing the plan on your own.1

Should I stop exfoliating if my skin barrier is damaged?

Pause scrubs and peels while your skin is irritated, and stop exfoliants that sting. The clearest advice is to avoid rough scrubbing and over exfoliation. Gentle exfoliation with a mild alpha hydroxy acid is different from abrasive scrubbing, but do not push through irritation to keep using it. Give the skin a chance to settle before deciding whether to bring exfoliation back.25

Can moisturizer help repair a damaged skin barrier?

Yes. Moisturizers help replace barrier support and keep skin healthy, while emollients form a protective film that traps moisture. A moisturizer with ceramides, cholesterol, or fatty acids is a reasonable option. Apply it after washing and as often as needed to keep skin comfortable. Creams can suit daytime use; ointments are thicker and more moisturizing for very dry, thickened skin. Emollients form a protective film to trap moisture; the job title sounds plain, but the work is useful.56

Give the routine time. It can take three or four months to start seeing the benefits of efforts to repair the skin barrier, so a lack of instant change is not a reason to add more products.5

When should I get help?

If your skin gets worse, develops a new rash, or a moisturizer causes burning or stinging that does not settle after a few days, ask a pharmacist or clinician for advice. Persistent or recurring irritation can have different causes, including contact allergy, and a dermatologist can assess whether further testing is useful.46