Why Does Skin Burn When Applying Moisturizer or Lotion?

Moisturizers are an essential part of your skincare routine. And just like other skin care products it has its own benefits. Many people experience a burning sensation with certain moisturizers. The cause could be as simple as choosing the wrong product, a problematic ingredient, or even a reaction from your own skin. Addressing this issue is essential for achieving the hydrated, healthy complexion you desire. 

So, I will help you to understand why skin burns when applying moisturizer or lotion? And offer guidance on selecting the right options for your skin’s needs.

 Reasons why your skin burns when applying moisturizer

Here are some reasons why your skin burns.

• Common ingredients known for causing skin sensitivity
• You are having an allergic reaction
• Your skin’s protective barrier is compromised or you are dealing with existing irritation or inflammation
• You are applying moisturizer to damp or broken skin, which can increase absorption and irritation
• You are sensitive to some ingredients like fatty acids.

Common ingredients that may cause burning

There is no need to apply ingredients such as Salicylic acid or Vitamin C in order to have healthy skin. In fact these ingredients are the big reasons for allergic reactions for some people.

You just need to check the ingredient list before buying any product and choose the one that matches your skin needs.

Hyaluronic acid

Studies show that the low molecular weight hyaluronic acid may contribute to skin irritation. As its smaller molecules allow it to penetrate deeply into the skin, which isn’t necessarily beneficial. 

When hyaluronic acid isn’t properly sealed with moisturizer, it can draw moisture out of the skin instead, which can lead to dryness, redness and irritation.

Vitamin C

Many forms of vitamin c are usually unstable and prone to oxidation, which significantly reduces its effectiveness. Vitamine C itself can be more irritating particularly for those with the acne prone and sensitive skin. 

Personally I’ve never had the best experience with vitamin C, it seemed to work at first but then I started getting small red pimples.

If you feel a burning sensation on your skin after applying it, it means that you are using too many actives at once. Try to simplify your skin care routine and reintroduce them slowly, which helps you to figure out what is causing irritation.

Can an allergic reaction be the reason your face burns when applying moisturizer?

Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe. Burning means that your skin barrier is damaged even if it does not result in face swelling. If you use a product before and it does not cause any issues then your skin may be the problem (maybe it’s compromised). But if you are trying a new brand and your skin was fine before then It’s likely the product.

I’ve personally had this with some CeraVe products — especially the Hydrating Cleanser, burning should also be noted as a warning sign. Continuing using the product will worsen things.

Other signs of an allergic reaction:

• Swollen eyes or face.
• Weeping skin or blisters. 
• Sores or wounds.
• Swollen throat or tongue.

If this happens, consult your Doctor immediately!

And for those with sensitive skin — you are already familiar with the process: patch test everything. 

Applying moisturiser to damp skin can also cause burning

Applying moisturizer to damp skin can help it work better because it absorbs faster. But for sensitive skin, this fast absorption can lead to that burning or stinging feeling.

If this keeps happening to you, apply your moisturizer to dry skin instead. It can be gentler and less irritating.

Sometimes your skin burns, and sometimes it doesn’t, even with the same product. That’s usually because your skin barrier is weaker at that time; change  in weather, humidity, or even stress can make your skin more reactive.

Slugging with Vaseline and irritated skin

Slugging means applying Vaseline (petroleum jelly) as the last step in your skincare to lock in moisture. Usually, this works well,  but if you’re using it over a strong actives like tretinoin or retinol, it can actually cause more irritation.

Vaseline locks in everything on your skin, which can make strong ingredients go deeper and cause redness or burning. If your face burns after using lotion, try not to slug for a while.

How a poor skin barrier can cause a burning sensation

If you are experiencing burning, redness and dryness after moisturizing then there might be the chance that your skin barrier is damaged. The outer layer protects your skin but the things like:

• Using too many exfoliating acids (like salicylic or glycolic acid)
• Over cleansing or harsh cleansers
• Rough scrubbing
• Hot showers or washing with hot water
• Over using spot treatments
• Products with fragrances or essential oils

can break the barrier.

To protect your skin use skincare products for damaged skin barrier, not just when your skin is bad. Using them twice a day can keep your skin healthy.

Healing a damaged skin barrier

These tips help you to restore and maintain a healthy skin barrier. 

• SIMPLIFY YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE: Just go for cleanser, moisturizer, barrier serum and SPF. I also do the same, when my skin is feeling sensitized.
• GENTLE CLEANSER: use gentle, water based cleanser
• AVOID USING HOT WATER ON FACE: Make sure to use warm water, hot water can damage your skin barrier.
• PAY ATTENTION TO PH: Products with a pH between 4.0 to 5.0 helps you to maintain your skin natural balance and may prevent various skin conditions.
• AVOID ACTIVES: Stop using for at least 1 to 2 weeks. To restore your skin barrier requires pausing exfoliants, acids and retinoids.

Sign That Your Skin Barrier is Damaged 

Here’s how you come to know that your skin barrier is damaged: 

• Feels irritation after applying lotion 
• A burning sensation from products that never used to make your face burn
• Unexpected breakouts then usual
• Your skin Dry, tight yet oily at the same time 

Also Read: Medik8 Crystal Retinal vs Retinol: Which One is Right for You

Conclusion

Experiencing a burning sensation when applying moisturizer or lotion can result from various factors including allergies, irritation from certain ingredients, or compromised skin barriers. It is essential to pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. Adopting fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products may provide relief for sensitive skin types. If the issue continues, seeking advice from a dermatologist can lead to better solutions.