Because they are primarily made of water, lotions evaporate quickly and may contain preservatives that burn when applied to skin that's scratched or broken. If your skin stings or burns after you apply a moisturizer, switching to an ointment may help.

Why does my skin burn when I apply lotion?

“When skin burns, it's a pH issue,” explains Dr Marmur. “Skin is naturally acidic, so if a moisturizer stings, it has thrown the pH balance off, which is a sign it's not compatible.”

What causes lotion to sting?

This is caused by a difference in salt concentrations between the pool or tap water and the water or fluid that exists in the cells of the nose. The cells of the nose rapidly swell causing the nerves to send signals to the brain that something is not right! A cream contains about 80% or more of water.