Pushing through certain skin conditions can backfire, leaving you with irritation, sensitivity, or a compromised skin barrier instead of the glow you were hoping for. Scrubbing at active blemishes can spread bacteria to surrounding areas, while acids may sting and intensify redness on compromised skin. When Your Skin Feels Sunburned or Sun-SensitizedSunburned skin is essentially injured skin. When You Notice Signs of a Compromised Skin BarrierYour skin barrier is the protective outer layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Check in with your skin regularly, and don’t hesitate to pause exfoliation when something feels off.