What should I do if my face starts flaking after applying powder?

Generally, peeling or flaking after applying powder on the face may be caused by dry and dehydrated skin, improper makeup base steps, damaged skin barrier, seborrheic dermatitis, or dryness triggered by allergies. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general care, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Dry and Dehydrated Skin: Insufficient daily hydration leads to low moisture content in the stratum corneum. When powder is applied, particles accumulate in dry lines, forming visible flakes. Drink at least 1,500 mL of water per day. Use a hydrating toner morning and night, and immediately apply a ceramide-containing moisturizer after using a hydrating mask to lock in moisture.

2. Improper Base Makeup Steps: Applying powder directly without a primer, or using an overly drying compact, can result in poor adhesion to the skin and cause flaking. Apply a nourishing primer before makeup, choose a moisturizing foundation paired with loose powder for setting, avoid matte-finish dry compacts, and use a hydrating facial mist as a base when touching up makeup.

3. Damaged Skin Barrier: Over-cleansing or frequent exfoliation can impair the skin barrier, reducing its ability to retain moisture and leading to flaking after powder application. Discontinue exfoliating products, wash the face with lukewarm water, and follow a doctor’s instructions to use medications such as vitamin E cream, urea-vitamin E ointment, or hyaluronic acid gel to repair the skin barrier.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Abnormal sebaceous gland secretion causes inflammation, resulting in redness and scaling; applying powder may worsen flaking. Follow medical advice to use topical medications such as tacrolimus ointment, pimecrolimus cream, or vitamin B6 ointment, and select fragrance-free, non-irritating foundation products.

5. Allergy-Induced Dryness: Allergic reactions to preservatives or pigments in foundation can trigger inflammation, causing dry, flaky skin accompanied by itching. Immediately discontinue use of the suspected foundation. Under medical guidance, take antihistamines such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets or loratadine capsules, and use calamine lotion as needed. Switch to a simple, medical-grade foundation with minimal ingredients.

In daily life, consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Perform hydrating skincare treatments 2–3 times per week, thoroughly remove makeup after wearing it to prevent residue from clogging pores, and maintain overall skin health.