Managing Redness and Burning Sensation After Skin Peeling: Causes and Effective Remedies

GoldSkin > How to Treat Acne > Managing Redness and Burning Sensation After Skin Peeling: Causes and Effective Remedies

Peeling has become a popular beauty treatment for removing dead skin cells, brightening the complexion, and improving acne-prone skin. However, this process doesn’t always yield the expected results. A common issue is skin experiencing redness and a burning sensation post-peel, which not only causes discomfort but can also damage the skin if not managed properly. Join Goldskin as we explore the causes and effective remedies to help your skin recover quickly.

Causes of Redness and Burning Sensation After Peeling

Damaged Skin Layers

Peeling removes dead cells from the skin’s surface, but if done incorrectly, it can harm the epidermis. Using overly strong or inappropriate peeling products may lead to irritation, causing redness and a burning sensation. This often occurs when the peel contains a high concentration of acids, which may burn or overly exfoliate the skin.

Inappropriate Product Use

Another cause of post-peel redness and burning is using products unsuitable for your skin type. Sensitive skin, for instance, may react negatively to strong retinol, AHA, or BHA peels. Neglecting to check product ingredients may result in irritation, leading to red, dry, and flaky skin.

Incorrect Peeling Procedure

Sometimes, improper application can also lead to irritation. Leaving a peeling product on the skin for too long or failing to perform a patch test beforehand can damage the skin’s protective layer. This is especially true for those new to peeling treatments or using high-strength peels.

Signs of Redness and Burning After Peeling

Redness and Warm Sensation

If your skin feels red, irritated, and warm immediately after peeling, this is a common sign of irritation. Peeling makes the skin more sensitive and prone to environmental stressors. This sensation may last a few hours to several days.

Dryness and Flaking

Another sign of post-peel irritation is dry and flaky skin. Since new skin cells take time to form, external factors can easily impact these fresh layers, causing tightness and cracking if not properly moisturized.

Red Bumps and Inflammation

In some cases, red bumps or inflammation may appear post-peel, indicating an infection or a severe reaction to the peel ingredients. To reduce the risk of this, always use high-quality products suitable for your skin type.

Remedies for Redness and Burning After Peeling

Proper management can alleviate discomfort and protect the skin from lasting damage. Recovery involves moisturizing, using repair products, protecting the skin from the sun, and avoiding further irritation. Here are effective methods backed by research to soothe and restore your skin.

Proper Moisturization

Moisturizing is essential to help the skin recover after a peel, as the natural moisture barrier is often compromised. A study by the American Academy of Dermatology found that continuous moisturizing for four weeks significantly reduced dryness, peeling, and irritation after peels. Another report from the International Dermatology Association indicated that moisturizers with ceramide and hyaluronic acid can improve skin’s moisture barrier by up to 30% within two weeks.

Fragrance-free and alcohol-free moisturizers like petrolatum or glycerin-based creams are ideal, as they create a protective layer that locks in moisture. Moisturizing is a simple yet effective way to soothe skin, especially after deep exfoliation. Look for products containing vitamin E and aloe vera, as these ingredients have quick, soothing effects.

Use of Skin Repair Products

Products with repair-boosting ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin B5, or aloe vera can soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. Research shows that niacinamide can reduce skin irritation and boost recovery after peeling. A Harvard University study revealed that niacinamide not only reduces redness but also improves skin hydration, promoting faster recovery and an even skin tone.

Ceramide-containing products are also essential in post-peel care. Ceramide helps restore the skin’s lipid layer, minimizing water loss and preventing cracks. These repair products should be applied immediately when you experience redness, warmth, or a burning sensation and maintained throughout recovery.

Sun Protection

Post-peel skin is extremely sensitive and vulnerable to UV rays, which can cause discoloration or further damage. According to the International Journal of Dermatology, freshly peeled skin has three times the risk of hyperpigmentation when exposed to sunlight without proper protection. Thus, sunscreen is a crucial step in post-peel skincare.

Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens with zinc oxide or oxybenzone provide a strong barrier for sensitive skin, minimizing sun damage. Additionally, avoid direct sun exposure for 7 to 10 days after peeling to protect your skin.

Avoid Further Irritation

One of the most challenging aspects of managing post-peel irritation is avoiding additional irritation from certain products or poor skincare practices. Avoid products containing AHA, BHA, retinol, or vitamin C during the recovery period, as they may intensify the irritation.

According to the World Dermatology Institute, using products with AHA 3 to 5 days post-peel can increase irritation by up to 50%. Therefore, choosing gentle and safe products during this period is essential to avoid worsening skin damage.

Conclusion

Experiencing redness and burning after a peel isn’t uncommon, but with proper care, your skin can recover quickly. Choosing the right peeling products, following the procedure correctly, and practicing careful aftercare are key to preventing this condition. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist for advice and treatment.

Remember to listen to your skin and approach skincare as a long-term commitment. Take things slow and steady for the best results in achieving healthy, beautiful skin