Changing out of your current skincare routine may bring on unforeseen skin issues. A typical issue is that you notice new breakouts, clogged pores, redness, or irritation after you switch to a different cleanser.

If this is what you are experiencing it isn’t always that the cleanser is the issue. The new product may include ingredients which don’t agree with your skin or you may be reacting to a change in routine.

Understanding what causes breakouts when you switch face cleansers will help you in choosing better products for your daily skincare routine.

Can Changing Your Face Cleanser Cause Breakouts?

Yes, at times what you put on your face may cause breakouts or irritation.

A cleanser goes into direct contact with your skin which in turn may react to its components, fragrance, cleansers and texture. If the new cleanser is too drying, irritating or is not suitable for your skin type it may cause issues and bring out present skin problems.

Also it is seen that breakouts which present after a change in cleanser may be a result of other factors which include hormone changes, stress, diet, weather, makeup, or the use of many new skincare products at the same time.

Why Is Your Skin Breaking Out After Switching Cleansers?

There are several possible reasons.

1. The Cleanser May Be Too Harsh

A cleanser which strips your skin of too much oil will leave it feeling tight and dry.

When the skin breaks out in irritation you may see redness, roughness or small breakouts. If right after washing your skin feels uncomfortable the cleanser may not be a good fit.

A gentle cleanse should take off sweat, excess oil, sunscreen, and daily impurities but should not leave your face feeling very tight.

2. Your Skin May Not Like Certain Ingredients

Different skin types react in different ways to skincare products.

A new cleanser may include fragrance, essential oils, exfoliants which may irritate your skin.

If you see breakouts or irritation soon after adding a new product to your routine, think of other things which also may have changed at the same time.

3. You May Be Cleansing Too Often

Washing your face multiple times a day may appear as a solution to reduce oil, but in fact over washing may dry out and irritate skin.

For the average person, daily cleanses in morning and evening are enough. If you work out or go through great sweat at that time then a very gentle extra cleanse may be what you need.

4. Your New Cleanser May Not Suit Your Skin Type

A cleanser that is designed for very oily skin may be too drying for those with dry or sensitive skin.

Also for some very rich cleansers may not be the best choice for those with very oily or congested skin.

Your skin type and present skin condition should play a role in your choice of cleanser.

5. You Changed Several Products at Once

If you put on cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer and sunscreen at the same time you may have trouble determining which product is the cause of a reaction.

When practical, do so one at a time. This will give you a better idea of your skin’s reaction.

Could It Be Purging Instead of a Breakout?

At times what we think is breaking out is in fact skin purging.

Purge reactions are typically brought on by products which contain ingredients that stimulate skin cell turnover like certain exfoliating acids or retinoids. A simple cleanser which does not contain these types of actives is less likely to cause what we term purging.

If in a new cleanser which has put in active exfoliating ingredients you see that you are getting bumps in your breakout areas, that may be what is known as purging.

Also it is noted that large scale irritation, burning, intense redness, or breakouts in atypical areas may point out that your skin does not tolerate the product well.

How Can You Tell If Your Cleanser Is Causing the Problem?

Note what occurs before and after cleansing.

If you see that your cleanser is the issue of:.

• New irritation shortly after washing
• Persistent tightness
• Burning or stinging
• Excessive dryness
• Redness
• Small bumps
• Increased sensitivity
• More break outs we see after we introduce the product.

Also look at the timing of results. If your skin was stable before you tried out the new cleanser and issues appeared right after the switch to it, that product may require more of your attention.

What Should You Do If Your Skin Breaks Out After Changing Cleansers?

First out is to simplify your skincare routine.

For a short period, consider using:.

1. A gentle cleanser
2. A simple moisturizer
3. Sunscreen during the day

Do not add new products to your routine when your skin is irritated.

If it is that the new cleanser is causing you discomfort stop use of it and go back to a former which your skin tolerated well.

Do not scrub your face vigorously to get rid of the bumps. Aggressive scrubbing will increase irritation.

How Should You Choose Face Cleansers for Acne-Prone Skin?

Acne-prone skin still needs gentle cleansing.

In choosing face cleansers note which to put into consideration is:.

Look for a Comfortable Formula

After washing your face it should feel clean but also not tight.

Consider Your Skin Type

Oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin types may use different cleansers.

Avoid Overloading Your Routine

Using products that contain a lot of active ingredients plus exfoliating serums and masks may increase irritation.

Consider Your Main Skin Concern

If you are worried about oil, a cleanser that is designed for oily skin may be what you should use. If what you have is more of a dry issue, a gentle hydrating cleanser may be the better choice.

Are Korean Skin Care Products Suitable for Acne-Prone Skin?

Many of the Korean skin care products are for specific skin issues which include dry skin, sensitive skin, excess oil, breakouts, and repair of the skin barrier.

Also, just because a product is from Korea does not mean it will work for all.

Check out the ingredients, see what your skin type is, and introduce new products slowly.

A basic Korean skincare routine includes:.

Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen

You don’t have to take every step. Your routine should fit your skin’s needs.

Should You Stop Using a Cleanser If It Causes Breakouts?

If a cleanser is causing burn or serious irritation or is making your breakouts worse it may be best to stop using it instead of waiting to see if it improves.

For instance for small changes note other issues that may have also changed at the same time.

Think about:.

• New makeup
• New sunscreen
• New moisturizer
• Laundry products
• Pillowcase hygiene
• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Diet
• Weather
• Increased sweating

Break out causes may present in many forms which is why it is useful to look at your full routine.

Can Over-Cleansing Make Acne Worse?

Over cleansing may cause dryness and irritation.

If your skin is very dry, flaky, or uncomfortable, what may not help is to increase your cleansing.

Instead opt for a light cleansing routine and out of the question excessive face washing unless it is for a particular reason.

For oily skin the goal is to not eliminate all of your natural oil. A balanced approach in your cleansing routine will help your skin to stay comfortable.

How Long Should You Give a New Cleanser?

A cleanser which causes immediate burning, swelling, or strong irritation should not be included in your routine.

For a product which may not see change immediately but will be comfortable do give your routine a chance first.

At the same time do not feel you have to use a product which is doing your skin in.

If you are still dealing with severe or persistent acne which does not improve with a proper skincare routine, talk to a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Can the Wrong Cleanser Damage Your Skin Barrier?

A very strong cleansing agent for your skin may cause dryness and irritation.

Your skin barrier also has the job to keep in moisture and protect against external irritants. With that in mind it is especially useful in issues like sensitive or acne breakouts.

Skin signs that you may be breaking out include:.

• Tightness
• Flaking
• Redness
• Stinging
• Increased sensitivity
• Rough texture

A basic routine will minimize irritation as your skin adjusts.

Common Face Cleansing Mistakes That May Trigger Problems

Washing With Very Hot Water

Hot water does in fact cause dry and sensitive skin to react more. For sensitive skin which also includes dry, try lukewarm water instead.

Scrubbing Too Hard

Aggressive scrubbing may irritate the skin and increase redness.

Using Too Much Cleanser

More products may not in fact lead to clear skin. Follow the product’s directions.

Washing Too Frequently

Repetitive cleansing may cause dryness and irritation.

Changing Products Too Often

Continuous changes in products make it hard to know which formula is right for your skin.

What is a basic routine for breakout prone skin?

If you are breaking out since you changed your cleanser, keep it simple.

Morning

Gentle cleanser → Lightweight moisturizer → Sunscreen

Evening

Gentle cleanser → Moisturizer

Once you are out of that fragile stage, introduce what you like targeted products which best address your issues.

This is a way to determine what products your skin does best with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can face cleansers cause acne?

A new cleanser at times may cause breakouts or irritation if it contains ingredients that don’t suit your skin. Also other factors may play a role in breakouts which is why you should look at changes all over your routine.

How do I tell if my skin is reacting to the cleanser?

Burning sensation, persistent tightness, redness, stinging, excessive dryness, or new breakouts after cleansing are signs of irritation.

Should my routine include stopping use of a cleanser if I break out?

If the cleanser causes break out or is putting your skin in a worse state then it may be time to discontinue use. Try going back to a very mild product which your skin did in fact tolerate in the past.

Do Korean skincare products cause acne?

Yes, any skincare product will cause irritation or breakouts if it doesn’t suit your skin. Also, what may be true is that Korean skincare products do not fit all skin types.

How often do I wash my face?

For most people once a day in the morning and once at night is enough. Your routine may vary based on your skin type, what you do and which products you use.

Does over-washing cause breakouts?

Over cleaning can cause dryness and irritation which in turn may put your skin’s issues at large. For best results try a balanced approach to your skin care routine instead of frequent facial washes.

When I break out, what should I do after changing my cleanser?

Keep it simple with a gentle cleanser, a comfortable moisturizer and daytime sunscreen. Until your skin becomes more stable, avoid trying out many new products.

Final Thoughts

After switching face cleansers what you break out of may not be a reaction to the cleaning action itself. The formula, ingredients, how often you clean and other changes to your routine play a role.

If you notice your skin is tight, irritated, or uncomfortable after trying out a new cleanser, think about going back to a more gentle option. When it comes to Korean skin care products, pay attention to what is best for your skin type and issues instead of what is popular.

A basic and the same every day routine may work for your skin. Should breakouts become persistent, painful or severe professional dermatological advice is a step which may help identify the cause and appropriate treatment.