What to Do When You F#$k Up Your Skin

Listen, it happens. Sometimes y’all ignore my very sound advice that I give post after post here on this blog, on my YouTube channel, on my Instagram, etc. But you know, whatever.

This post will help you slowly get back on track after you went a little too hard with exfoliants, retinoids, etc.

You’ll know you’ve done THEE MOST when your skin feels sensitive even to products that you typically have no reaction to. Shoot, you might even wince when just putting water on your face.

Do the LEAST

First thing you want to do is keep your skincare routine SUPER SIMPLE. Take out every active (these are products like vitamin C, dark spot treatments, exfoliants, retinoids, etc) and keep your routine down to a super gentle cleanser and moisturizer (with sunscreen during the day). Only consider adding products that soothe and protect the skin.

Now be patient because depending on how badly impaired your skin is, you might have to stick to a super gentle and basic routine for a while.

If you start to see some improvement, you can SLOWLY add your actives back in. Keyword: SLOWLY. Start by using them only a few times a week until your skin gets acclimated.

Products to Try

Sometimes a good gentle cleanser and a swipe of petroleum jelly on slightly damp skin at night is enough, but of course we all aren’t the same and appreciate variety. Here are some products to try.

Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream $42 (use code FLASH20 to receive 20% off the entire site thru 9/24/23)

This helps restore and promote an optimal environment for skin recovery. It’s a thick cream, but when used twice a day, it can help reduce a lot of skin discomfort within a few days.

But if you prefer something more lightweight…