Dry, Itchy, Red Skin on Face

I have a question about a problem I'm having on my face.  I over-exfoliated my face (used a washcloth and Neutragena Oil Free Acne Wash) 2 days in a row.  I noticed after washing my face yesterday my skin was dry, red, irritated, and had a bumpy "orange peel" texture to it.  Now I have pinhead sized whiteheads all over my cheeks, forehead, and chin.

How do I fix my skin?  What kind of facial cleanser should I use until this heals?  What type of moisturizer?  I've been using Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturizer (oil free) until yesterday.  I bought Garnier Nutritioniste Moisture Rescue Lightweight UV Lotion and used it last night.  There doesn't seem to be a huge difference in using it.  I'm not wearing makeup currently, but would like to clear my skin up by the 4th of July so I can wear makeup to a family gathering.

What should I do now?  Any advice is appreciated.  Thank you!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
For such kind of skin, avoid using any lotions and creams over the face for the meantime. Wash your face with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Pat your face dry. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves. If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort.

If the irritation persists then please get it evaluated from a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.