What causes burning skin?

A new soap, cosmetic, detergent, hair-removal product or topical medicine can irritate the skin, especially when the skin barrier is already dry or damaged. Contact dermatitis commonly presents with burning, stinging, redness, itching or a rash where the trigger touched the skin. Rosacea can cause facial warmth and burning, often with flushing. Shingles may begin with burning, tingling or sensitivity on one side before a stripe-like blistering rash appears. Nerve irritation can also cause burning without an obvious surface rash.

Notice the location, timing, visible changes and possible triggers. Burning after a product suggests irritation, while one-sided sensitivity followed by blisters needs prompt medical attention.

Stop any recently introduced product that stings and rinse the area gently with lukewarm water. Use a bland, fragrance-free moisturiser and protect the skin from heat, friction and direct sun. Avoid scratching, exfoliating, essential oils and numbing creams unless a clinician recommends them. Keep a note of exposures, the affected area and whether the sensation is spreading.

Arrange medical advice if burning persists, keeps returning, interferes with sleep or occurs without a clear trigger. Seek urgent assessment for rapidly spreading redness, marked swelling, fever, pus, severe pain, facial or eye involvement, or a one-sided blistering rash. Emergency help is needed for breathing difficulty or swelling of the lips, tongue or throat.

Ask whether the pattern fits contact dermatitis, rosacea, shingles or nerve-related sensitivity; which products should be paused; and whether the skin needs an examination, swab or other test.