Over-exfoliation and hyperpigmentation: what to know

Scrubs, brushes and exfoliating acids remove surface cells, but repeated or overlapping use can cause stinging, redness, tightness, flaking or tiny cracks. Inflammation signals pigment-producing cells, so the healing area may look brown, grey or deeper than the surrounding skin. This is different from dirt that needs more scrubbing. Dark patches can also have other causes; see [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/) if the pattern is new, spreading or unexplained.

Stop exfoliating products and avoid picking, cleansing brushes, fragranced products and other ingredients that sting until the skin feels settled. Wash gently with lukewarm water, use a bland moisturiser, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed areas every morning. Reintroduce products one at a time only after recovery, and do not layer acids with retinoids unless a clinician has advised it. A dermatologist can assess whether options such as [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/) or [Hydroquinone Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-hydroquinone-therapy/) fit your skin. Procedures including a [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/) or [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/) require an assessment because irritation can worsen pigment.

Arrange a dermatology review if burning, swelling, crusting, blistering, pain or weeping continues after you stop the product, or if pigmentation keeps spreading. Seek urgent care for facial swelling with breathing difficulty, widespread blistering, or involvement of the eyes. Bring the product names, ingredient lists and a timeline of use.

Could this be post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or another pigment condition? Which cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen suit my skin? When can I safely restart an exfoliant, and should treatment be topical or procedural?