Textured bumpy skin

[Amethysttiara]

My skin has recently turned into a textured bumpy mess. All over my forehead little rough bumps, on my chin and upper lip. I used a strong retinol a few times but it started to break me out to much so I stopped. It’s been about a month, now my skin is awful even though do a routine twice a day. I use all Olehenrikson products(toner, serum, cream) and Kate Somerville exfolikate face wash. I use tatcha face wash and water cream when my skin is dry. The only new product was the retinol and the Kate face wash. Could it be the face wash ? I won’t use retinol again as it’s not something I need. I don’t have acne, I only get the odd pimples now and then. But the bumpy skin is awful, and honestly making me feel ashamed of my skin. I don’t wear makeup( only a few times a year now) and my skin has always been something I’m proud of. I just want my skin back, how can I help it get smooth and bump free again?? I’ve tried lots from the ordinary but the products did nothing. I’m at a loss on what to do

[haleyvvvv]

@Amethysttiara how long did you stop the retinol? It could be purging still from the retinol. Depending on the OLE toner you're using, that plus the exfoliate might be too much exfoliation and you might have damaged the moisture barrier.

I do agree to stop using the newer cleanser and retinol for now. Its hard to tell because its two newer products which one is causing it. Once your skin clears up you can try patch testing them one at a time, if you're feeling up to it.

For texture, things like AHAs, and Vitamin C plus antioxidants, can help, but these are both actives, and I wouldn't introduce any new actives unless you know your skin handles them well.

If its overexfoliation, you're going to want to go to a very simple routine with a gentle cleanser, hydrating serum and moisturizer (at least one with ceramides), and SPF. At night, gentle cleanser, moisturizer, sleeping mask. Keep the area hydrated throughout the day with a facial spray and you can add a salve for extra oomph.

Your best bet is going to be to get to talk to a derm if you can, even digitally. Good luck!

[Amethysttiara]

I use quite a lot of exfoliating serums and toners, lots of vitamin c products and acids so I could definitely see that I might be over exfoliating. I had a bad reaction to the retinol, it burned as soon as it touched my skin. I tried it three times, each time the same reaction. I’ve had the same reaction to lactic acid as well. I have oily skin on top of rosacea which could be it as well. My skin likes vitamin c and Bha/aha acids, but I try not to overdo it anymore. I’ve heard rosacea can cause bumpy skin, I wonder if that’s why it’s gotten so bad? Maybe I aggravated my skin. I’ve always had some texture, but it’s so bad now as I said. Maybe I’ll look into products for rosacea, it’s always been mild so I never thought to use products to help it

[haleyvvvv]

Going to a derm is probably the best bet, @Amethysttiara!! But if anything is causing burning or giving more texture, discontinue right away. If you're using a lot of products at once they might not be getting along and continued use can make it worse. It might be worth stepping back and start adding back slowly.

[6come6]

@Amethysttiara I would recommend to stop using both the retinol and face wash. For bumpy textured skin, you may want to consider a chemical exfoliant if you don’t already. A gentle effective mask is Origins Rose Retexturizing mask. Good luck.

[Amethysttiara]

Thank you I’m just sad I spent the money on a face wash that still is half full 😭I’ve tried the origins rose mask it kind of helps but I’m thinking of taking the plunge and investing in a foreo, I’ve heard they are amazing for bumpy skin