With self-care incentives at an all-time high, there has been a surge in skincare products aimed at helping individuals achieve their desired skin aesthetic. Many cosmetic brands target Gen Alpha and Gen Z, encouraging them to indulge in these products, which may not be effective over time. If you’ve recently experienced flare-ups after trying a new skincare product, your skin may be signaling that something is amiss. Here are some ways to decipher and care for your skin to ensure it remains healthy.
Purging or Breaking Out
When breakouts occur after introducing a new product, it’s essential to determine whether your skin is purging or breaking out. Start by examining the product’s ingredients. If the product increases cell turnover, it may be causing your skin to purge. Purging occurs when acne worsens as your skin sheds dead skin cells, allowing fresh cells to emerge.
Consider the location of your breakouts. If they appear in your usual trouble spots, it’s likely a sign of purging. However, if breakouts show up in unfamiliar areas, it may indicate that your skin is not responding well to the product. Additionally, pay attention to how long it takes for your skin to heal after breakouts; prolonged healing could be a cause for concern.
Signs of damage to your skin barrier can include texture changes, itchiness, dullness, excessive oil buildup, a burning sensation, acne flare-ups, and dark marks.
Shop for Products Aligned with Your Skin Type
Many Gen Alpha and Gen Z individuals have fallen prey to viral skincare trends that may cause further irritation. Common mistakes include over-exfoliation and under-hydration. Over-exfoliation can damage your skin barrier, hindering its ability to retain moisture, while younger skin naturally contains high levels of collagen and elastin.
With a sensitive skin barrier, it’s crucial to choose products suited to your specific skin type—whether sensitive, oily, dry, or combination. A proper skincare routine can significantly enhance your skin health.
Dermatologists often recommend double cleansing with both oil-based and water-based cleansers, as this method is gentler and less likely to cause irritation while effectively removing makeup and dirt. Be cautious of makeup wipes containing high levels of alcohol, which can irritate the skin and lead to micro-tears and premature wrinkles.
Look at the Ingredients
If you struggle with acne, consider investing in products that promote cell turnover or contain chemical exfoliants. Ingredients associated with purging include retinols, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids, tretinoin, and azelaic acid. It’s advisable to exfoliate no more than twice a week and to choose chemical exfoliants that are gentler on the skin. Avoid using multiple forms of retinol at the same time.
As you develop your skincare routine, research oils beneficial for your skin type. A common mistake highlighted by many TikTok influencers is neglecting surface oils in their routines, which may lead the skin to produce excess oil, counteracting efforts for those with oily skin.
While vitamin C and retinol can be beneficial, individuals with sensitive skin, such as those with eczema, should be cautious with high doses of these ingredients. Consider natural alternatives to retinol, such as products containing 1% bakuchiol.
Products to Avoid
Pharmacist and skincare expert Ben Fuchs recommends steering clear of the following products, as they can contribute to wrinkles:
- Preservatives: These can kill bacteria, fungi, and skin cells.
- Fragrances: These may act as endocrine disruptors and can have toxic profiles.
- Vegetable Oils: Oils like grapeseed and carrot oil can oxidize.
Repair Your Damaged Skin Barrier
If your skin isn’t responding to acne treatments or shows signs of dryness, burning, or severe irritation, you may have a compromised skin barrier. This can occur due to dryness, over-exfoliation, or layering too many active ingredients. To repair your skin barrier, take a break from chemical exfoliants, vitamin C, and retinol, and adopt a simple routine focused on hydrating, soothing, and protecting your skin.
Recommended products include:
- Cream cleansers for gentle cleansing
- Moisturizers to hydrate
- Serums designed for strengthening
- Sunscreen (SPF) for protection
Look for products containing:
- Ceramides: To rebuild and heal your skin barrier
- Centella: To soothe irritation and breakouts
- Hyaluronic Acid: To hydrate your skin