Skin exfoliation risks and management

Excessive skin exfoliation, whether through physical scrubs or chemical agents like AHA, BHA, or salicylic acid, can lead to significant skin damage. Dermatologist Rachel Reynolds from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center notes that while exfoliation improves texture, overdoing it can cause sensitivity, redness, dryness, and peeling.

Improper exfoliation can exacerbate inflammatory acne and increase vulnerability to sunburn. To manage irritation or a burning sensation, dermatologist Dr. Aanand Geria suggests using cold compresses to soothe the skin rather than immediately applying additional products.