If you’ve recently introduced a new skincare product or treatment and noticed your skin is breaking out more than usual, you might be experiencing what is known as a skin purge. Thankfully, you don’t need to worry. A skin purge is often a sign that the change you have made is working. Read on to find out everything you need to know about a skin purge.
What is Skin Purging?
Skin purging occurs when exfoliating ingredients and treatments that speed up cell turnover, such as retinoids, peels and microdermabrasion, push underlying clogged pores and excess oils to the surface faster than usual. As a result, you may notice an increase in breakouts following the new treatment or after using the product.
Don’t Panic!
Don’t panic! Once it is over, your skin will typically look clearer and smoother. A purge typically lasts between 4 to 6 weeks after introducing something new to your skincare routine.
Skin Purge vs. Breakout
Before handling a skin purge, it’s crucial to determine whether you’re actually experiencing a purge or just a reaction (i.e., a breakout) to the product. Here’s how to differentiate between the two:
- Skin Purge: Happens in areas where you usually break out and tends to resolve itself in about a month. You may notice smaller, faster-forming pimples.
- Breakout: New spots in areas where you don’t typically break out or an allergic reaction (like redness, swelling, or itchiness) could indicate that your skin is not tolerating the product well. These don’t resolve on their own as quickly as purges do.
How to Handle a Skin Purge
Here are our tips for navigating through a skin purge while minimising discomfort.
1. Be Patient
Patience is key. A purge can feel frustrating, but it’s important to remember that this is a temporary phase. The new treatment or active ingredient is accelerating your skin’s cell turnover, and the bumps you’re seeing are simply impurities that were bound to surface eventually. Better to resolve them now!
2. Stick to Your (Simplified) Routine
Avoid the temptation to overhaul your entire skincare routine. Stick to a gentle, simplified regimen that includes a gentle cleanser, a soothing toner, a hydrating moisturiser, SPF protection. While you may wish to treat the symptoms of the purge, you should resist the urge to introduce more treatments or harsh products. Maintain the basic care you need and let your skin resolve itself.
3. Avoid Over Exfoliation
Since purging is often caused by exfoliating ingredients, adding extra exfoliation to your routine can exacerbate the irritation. If you’re using a chemical exfoliant like AHAs or BHAs, limit usage to 2 times per week, depending on how your skin reacts. If the purge was caused by an exfoliating treatment, such as microdermabrasion, correctly follow any aftercare advice given to you by your skincare therapist.
4. Hydrate and Soothe
Hydration is essential during a purge. Opt for moisturisers with hydrating ingredients to support your skin’s barrier and reduce any dryness or irritation. Incorporate soothing products containing ingredients like aloe vera.
5. Don’t Pick or Pop
It’s tempting, but avoid picking at your skin or popping any blemishes. This can worsen inflammation, lead to scarring, and spread bacteria, making the purge worse and causing additional breakouts. Allow the purge to run its course without interference.
Skin Purge: Everything You Need to Know
Handling a skin purge isn’t easy, but with the right approach, you can come out the other side with glowing, clearer skin. Stick to a balanced skincare routine and be patient to achieve the results you’re hoping for.