What to do when products cause skin reactions

Having an adverse reaction to a new skincare product, or even one that you have previously tolerated, can be a profoundly disconcerting experience, especially if it appeared to be working at first.

What started as an effort to improve skin health can deteriorate so quickly, resulting in irritation, redness, dryness or, worse still, breakouts.

The most important thing to do is to stop using the product immediately. Continued application, even in small amounts, can exacerbate irritation and significantly prolong the recovery period. So, stop using it immediately!

This is not the time for a ‘wait and see’ approach, hoping that the reaction will go away by itself. Discontinuing use immediately minimises further exposure to the irritant or allergen in the product.

Once you have stopped using the product, your focus must shift entirely to gentle, restorative care. The objective is to support the skin’s natural healing processes and rebuild the compromised barrier.

Choose a mild, non-foaming cleanser that is free from fragrances, sulphates and harsh exfoliants. Use lukewarm water only, as hot water can further strip the skin of its natural protective oils. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it.

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Choose moisturisers that are hypoallergenic, bland and specifically designed to support the skin’s barrier. Look for formulations containing beneficial ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and colloidal oatmeal, which are known to aid repair and calm inflammation.

During this recovery period, avoid potent active ingredients such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), vitamin C and other strong anti-acne treatments.

This includes retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), vitamin C and other strong anti-acne treatments. While these ingredients are beneficial for healthy skin, they can further compromise your already sensitive barrier.

Monitor your skin’s response and watch out for any worsening symptoms. If you experience a severe reaction characterised by intense pain, blistering, significant swelling, or signs of infection such as pus or fever, you should seek immediate medical attention.