Advice for Skin Purging

Have you ever tried a new skincare product, but it caused your skin to flare up with pimples?

This could be your skin purging and not a regular breakout. When you introduce new products to your routine that contain active ingredients which increase skin turnover, they can cause purging.

If you have underlying congestion or micro-comedones, purging can speed up the process and cause it to become a breakout faster. Persevering with the product will eventually normalise your skin and allow it to work as intended. Purging should only last for about 3 weeks, enough time for the epidermis to renew itself.

Skin purging often leads to an initial increase in breakouts or acne lesions in areas where you typically experience them. These breakouts may include whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, or small red bumps.

Treatment tips that can help with skin purging

• Be patient, the purging will eventually settle down and the skin will start to show improvement.
• Avoid stopping the products or switching products
• Rather start at a lower concentration
• If you’re starting a new skincare product that might cause purging, introduce it gradually (every 2nd or 3rd day) into your routine
• Start with a smaller amount or use it on alternate days before increasing the frequency
• Stick to a simple routine with gentle cleansers and minimal active ingredients
• Resist the urge to pick or squeeze the pimples during the purging phase as it can lead to scarring and further irritation
• Apply sunscreen daily, especially if you’re using products that increase sensitivity to the sun
• Stay away from products containing harsh chemicals, alcohol, or strong fragrances that could further irritate your skin

Skincare ingredients that can contribute to skin purging

• AHAs: Glycolic, Lactic and Mandelic Acids
• BHAs: Salicylic Acid
• PHAs: Lactobionic Acid and Gluconolactone
• Retinoids
• Benzoyl Peroxide
• Physical Exfoliants
• Enzymatic Exfoliants