What is Skin Purging – Causes and How to Manage

Whenever you introduce a new skincare product into your routine, the expectation is to start seeing a glow within the first few weeks.

But this is sometimes not the case, especially when you are using active ingredients such as retinoids, and acids (AHA & BHA).

This is more based on the phenomenon that your skin has to get worse before it gets better.

Well, not all the time, but with some products, you have to go through a phase where your skin is cleaned and cleared of every clog before it gets better.

This process is called purging.

What is Purging

For our skins to look fresher and smoother, they go through a natural turnover process where the dead outer skin layer is shed off and a newer skin is revealed.

This process, however, can take longer the more we age and because of other factors like hormones, environmental stressors and so on.

To help quicken this process, we use active agents like retinoids and AHA & BHA acids. They help dissolve the dead outer layer and for oil soluble ones like AHA, they go deeper into the skin pores to melt excess sebum and get rid of acne bacteria.

As this happens, the acne that was already forming underneath the skin and was to appear in a week or month is pushed to the surface. 

Because of this, you will experience more acne all at once in the form of whiteheads, papules, and blackheads.

The good news is that this only lasts 4-8 weeks which is the full skin cycle for young adults and elderly people.

So, before you toss aside that new product, consider using it for 4-8 weeks, unless it’s causing you an allergic reaction.

Which brings us to the question, how do you know the difference?

What’s the Difference Between Allergic Reaction and Purging

Before adapting a new skincare product, consider testing it on your skin to ensure you are not allergic to it. 

You can do this through a patch test which is basically putting a small amount on another part of your body, like your hand.

Most allergic reactions will start almost immediately, characterised by:

Symptoms of Allergic Reactions:

• Redness and swelling.
• Itchiness.
• Rash or hives.
• Burning or stinging sensation.
• Blisters or welts.
• Symptoms appear quickly after product application.

Signs of Purging

• Increased breakout in areas where you usually experience breakouts.
• Small pimples, whiteheads, blackheads.
• Sometimes redness and very mild irritation.

Which Skincare Ingredients Cause Purging?

Not all skincare ingredients cause purging. Common ingredients that can cause purging include:

Retinoids

Types: Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene.

Function: Increase cell turnover, unclog pores, and improve skin texture and tone.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Types: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Citric Acid.

Function: Exfoliate the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells, leading to a smoother and more even complexion.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

Type: Salicylic Acid.

Function: Penetrate into pores to exfoliate and clear them out, which is particularly beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin.

Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs)

Types: Gluconolactone, Lactobionic Acid.

Function: Exfoliate the skin similarly to AHAs but are gentler, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Function: Kills acne-causing bacteria and helps to clear up existing acne, which can initially cause purging.

How to Manage Skin Purging:

• Start Slowly: Introduce active ingredients gradually to allow your skin to adjust.
• Moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated to support its barrier function.
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen daily, as active ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
• Patience: Understand that purging is temporary and usually lasts 4-6 weeks.
• Consult a Dermatologist: If purging persists or if you have concerns about your skincare routine.

By using these ingredients properly and giving your skin time to adjust, you can achieve clearer, healthier skin in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Purging Last?

Purging usually lasts 4 to 6 weeks. If it goes beyond that, it might not be purging anymore. It’s a good idea to check in with a dermatologist if you’re concerned.

Must Purging Happen with Active Ingredients?

Not everyone will experience purging with active ingredients. It depends on your skin type and how it reacts. Some people might not see any purging at all!

Can You Prevent Skin Purging?

You can’t completely avoid purging, but you can minimize it by introducing new products gradually and hydrating your skin with smooth and moisturizing products.

When Should I Contact a Healthcare Practitioner for Purging?

If your skin is still breaking out after 6 weeks or if you’re worried about your reaction, it’s a good idea to talk to a dermatologist. They can help figure out what’s going on and give you personalized advice.

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Written by: Billian Gadi – Fitness and Wellness Copywriter