No, picking dead skin is generally not recommended. While it might feel satisfying to remove loose, dead skin, doing so carries risks. Picking can lead to infection, break the skin's protective barrier, and potentially worsen underlying skin conditions.
Why Picking Dead Skin is Risky
-
Infection: Open wounds from picking provide an entry point for bacteria and other pathogens, potentially leading to infections. Picking at peeling skin can lead to infection. A dermatologist can determine the cause and suggest an appropriate treatment.
-
Scarring: Picking can damage the skin, potentially resulting in scarring.
-
Worsening Skin Conditions: For conditions like sunburn or psoriasis, picking can irritate the affected area, delaying healing and potentially making the condition worse. It may be tempting to try to exfoliate a peeling sunburn in an attempt to remove the dead skin, but Dr. Curcio says this isn't a good idea.
-
Irritation and Inflammation: Picking at the skin can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to redness, pain, and discomfort.
When Gentle Removal Might Be Acceptable
Gently removing only the already loose, dead skin that is about to shed naturally is generally acceptable. However, forcing the removal of skin that is still attached is not recommended. Gentle peeling and rubbing is okay cuz you're only gonna get the truly dead skin that is about to fall off. Once that falls off tho, do not pick
Safer Alternatives to Picking
Instead of picking, consider these safer methods for removing dead skin:
- Exfoliation: Use gentle exfoliating scrubs or chemical exfoliants containing ingredients like salicylic acid or lactic acid. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells with a substance or tool known as an exfoliator.
- Moisturizing: Keeping your skin well-hydrated helps the dead skin shed naturally.
- Consult a Dermatologist: If you have concerns about peeling skin or any skin condition, consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
