In an effort to keep your skin clear and glowing, it is very easy to go overboard. Between hot and cold temperatures, sweat, wind, pollution, UV radiation, makeup, skincare products and SPF buildup, exfoliating can feel like the only answer. But, if your skin is already sensitized - piling on acids, scrubs, or active serums can push it past its limit.
If you’re suddenly dealing with redness, stinging, tightness, or flaking, chances are you’ve over-exfoliated. The good news? Your skin can bounce back in just 5–7 days with the right care.
HERE'S HOW TO PRESS THE RESET BUTTON:
1. Put the Acids, Scrubs, Clays, Retinoids and Enzymes Down. Now.
For a week, skip even the “gentle” labeled acid based Vitamin C serums, retinoids, AHA/BHA products, scrubs, clay masks, and in general, anything labeled “purifying.” If your skin feels hot, tight, or irritated, you’ve likely disrupted your moisture barrier. What it needs now is space to repair, not more stimulation.
2. Rebuild with Barrier-Supporting Products
Focus on calm, cushioning, non-stripping products. Your goal is to hydrate, soothe, and repair your moisture barrier.
Here’s what to use:
THE MICELLAR WATER: Skip foaming or active cleansers. A gentle micellar water can cleanse without irritating.
THE HYDRATING TONER: A Toner or Mist with Humectants will impart hydration back to the skin and perk it up.
THE PLANT STEM CELL SERUM or THE HYALURONIC ACID SERUM: Nourish and repair with hydrating serums containing peptides and calming plant extracts.
THE ONERTA CREAM BARRIER: Barrier-repair creams are essential to lock in moisture and heal the damaged skin barrier.
3. Cool, But Don't Freeze Burn
Inflamed skin needs comfort. Apply a cold compress or store your gel mask in the fridge and apply chilled, but skip the ice rolling for a few days, because it can shock your already inflamed skin. Cool fine mist or steam that is not too close to the face can alleviate skin discomfort as well.
THE HERBAL GEL MASK is perfect for this step—hydrating, calming, and barrier-friendly.
4. Help Your Skin Heal From Within
Skin is a double-sided organ and you can help it recover from irritation by keeping your body hydrated and taking skin beneficial nutrients.
- Drink plenty of water and mineral-rich fluids (electrolytes)
- Eat healthy fats (omegas)
- Eat good sources of protein - milk, cheese, nuts, soy, seeds, meat, eggs and legumes
- Avoid spicy food
- Avoid applying hot water on the skin
- Avoid prolonged hot baths and showers to avoid additional dehydration
5. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable
Damaged skin is extra vulnerable to UV harm. Even minimal exposure can worsen redness and slow healing.
- Avoid direct sun when you can
- Wear a hat or find shade
- Reapply SPF every 2 hours—or each time you swim or sweat
6. Give It Time—And Don’t Panic. Skin Barrier Will Rebalance Itself
Skin is a smart organism. If you stop interfering, it will heal. With the right barrier-first approach, most people see improvement in 5–7 days.
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