should your skincare products sting?

it’s a common misconception that if a product stings or tingles it must be working. the truth is, you’re most likely disrupting your skin’s protective barrier (designed to keep moisture in and irritants out). that tight, squeeky clean feeling after you wash your face is actually a sign of your skin crying for help, because it’s been stripped of its natural oils. when a product stings, it’s either too harsh for your skin or reacting to being combined with another product (ie: AHAs/BHAs and retinol). if your skin experiences the following symptoms after using a product, it’s time to toss it: redness, irritation, breakouts, dryness, and flakiness*the only time a stinging/tingling sensation is appropriate is when it’s been administered by a skincare professional*PS. those black masks that make people look like their in legit pain trying to peel them off… not ok