How To Treat Purging Skin
Add skin barrier-supporting ingredients – You can provide calming products to your skin in order to treat purging:
Peptides: rebuild the skin’s barrier and increase skin suppleness. Their anti-inflammatory characteristics aid in skin tone evenness, inflammation relief, and skin restoration. Ceramides: help to form the skin barrier, which protects the skin and also moisturizes the skin. Hyaluronic acid: stores water and maintains the skin hydrated and plump. This lessens the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines. Jojoba oil: is a light oil rich in vitamins E, D, and A, as well as vitamin B complex, copper, and zinc. These nutrients protect the skin from free radicals and maintain it healthily. Aloe vera: calms, hydrates, and relieves acne-prone skin. Oat oil: has the ability to function as a barrier between the skin and the environment. It also contains antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects that can help increase skin hydration.
Contents
- 0.1 How long does skin purging last?
- 0.2 Does skin purging happen all at once?
- 0.3 Does purging leave acne scars?
- 1 How to tell the difference between skin purging and breaking out?
- 2 What is the longest skin purging can last?
- 3 Can salicylic acid make acne worse?
- 4 Does niacinamide cause purging?
- 5 Can vitamin C break you out?
- 6 Does skin purge before it gets better?
- 7 Can skin purging last 3 months?
- 8 Can skin purging last for two months?
- 9 How do you know if your skin is purging or reacting?
How long does skin purging last?
Skin purging is a temporary skin reaction to specific ingredients that cause breakouts, dryness, flaking, and peeling. It typically occurs when trying a new skin care product or certain facial treatments. Many skin care products aim to help people have clear, glowing skin.
These products may contain active ingredients that speed up the exfoliation process to renew the skin. However, as new skin emerges to the surface, congestion such as excess sebum and other buildups will also rise to the surface. This can cause acne, or a minor breakout, aside from dry, flaky skin, Learn more about skin purging, what it looks like, how it differs from a breakout, and what causes it.
Skin purging may look different from person to person and will depend on an individual’s complexion. Generally, dead skin cells come to the surface, causing dry, peeling skin. The skin may also adjust to the increased skin cell turnover rate and may become red and irritated.
stress certain foodsan allergic reaction clogged pores irritation
Skin purging usually develops when a person incorporates a new product into their skin care routine that causes a rapid skin cell turnover. In the table below, we compare the different symptoms of purging and acne breakouts. Some skin care products contain potent active ingredients to target various skin issues, such as:
acne skin aging wrinkles uneven skin tone
The most common ingredient to cause skin purging is retinol, a form of vitamin A and a widely used ingredient for skin care. According to a 2016 review, retinol is the mainstay treatment for acne because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to prevent the formation of new acne.
alpha hydroxy acids beta hydroxy acids glycolic acid salicylic acid lactic acid vitamin C benzoyl peroxide retinyl palmitatetazarotene
These ingredients shorten skin turnover from 28 days (in young adults) to around 7–14 days. A person experiencing skin purging should continue using the products and adhere to their skin routine unless they have a severe allergic reaction. It may take some time for the skin to adjust to the new regimen and show improvements.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends doing a patch test for new skin care products on a small area of skin, about the size of a quarter, for 7–10 days, People with sensitive skin are more likely to experience redness and inflammation with certain active ingredients. It is advisable to stick to a gentle skin care routine to avoid aggravating the inflammation.
A person should use sulfate-free cleansers and moisturizers and wear sunscreen, They should also not use other exfoliants or products with fragrances and harsh ingredients that may further irritate the skin. The skin is particularly sensitive and vulnerable at this stage, so a person needs to avoid:
touching their facepicking on the blemishes peeling off the flaky skin
If an individual’s skin shows signs of an allergic reaction, they may need to stop using the product. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
a rash or hives puffy, raised areas of skinskin redness small red spots on the skin an itchy, stinging, or burning sensationred itchy eyes watery eyes blisters dry or cracked skin
Symptoms are usually mild and can develop within a few minutes or gradually over several hours. In rare cases, a person may experience anaphylaxis, a life threatening allergic reaction that requires emergency medical attention. According to the AAD, a person may continue using the product if milder symptoms, such as skin redness and itchy or puffy skin, subside after 7–10 days of use.
However, if symptoms do not subside, a person should stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, The duration of skin purging will vary from person to person. Generally, however, it lasts 4–6 weeks, After 6 weeks, the skin may begin to respond to the ingredients, and a person should be able to see improvement.
The initial symptoms will subside, and the person will notice smoother, brighter skin and a more even skin tone. A person can minimize the side effects of retinol or acids by slowly easing them into the skin care routine. They may begin by applying retinol two times in the first week and then increasing it to three times the following week.
For exfoliating acids, a person may start applying them once weekly. However, they should not go beyond two–three times per week, to avoid over-exfoliation. Moreover, a person should only use a chemical peel, including chemical peel as part of facials, once per month. Skin purging is different from breakouts and does not require treatment.
However, a person may use products with calming, skin barrier-supporting ingredients. These include:
Peptides : Peptides, or polypeptides, restore the skin barrier and improve skin elasticity. Their anti-inflammatory properties help even out skin tone, ease inflammation, and repair damaged skin. Ceramides: Ceramides build the skin barrier, protecting the skin. They also hydrate and moisturize the skin. Hyaluronic acid : Like ceramides, hyaluronic acid holds water and keeps the skin moisturized and plump. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Jojoba oil : Jojoba oil is a lightweight oil that contains vitamins E, D, and A, vitamin B complex, copper, and zinc, These nutrients keep the skin healthy and protect it against free radicals, Aloe vera : Aloe vera soothes, moisturizes, and reduces inflammation in acne-prone skin. A 2021 study showed that using aloe vera gel with ultrasound and a soft mask effectively treated mild to severe facial acne. Oat oil: Oat oil can act as a barrier between the skin and the environment. It also has soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties that can help boost skin moisture.
Skin purging is a temporary skin reaction during which the skin becomes dry, red, and irritated and experiences minor breakouts in response to a new product a person has introduced into their skin care regimen. Certain ingredients, such as exfoliating acids and retinol, promote skin exfoliation to cause new skin to surface.
Will my skin be clear after purging?
So what’s the verdict? Is Skin Purging Good or Bad? – Naturally, you might be averse to having any sort of breakout or bump pop up, especially while you’re trying to take care of your skin. That being said, the skin purging process is generally a good thing – a necessary evil on your way to dreamy skin.
- Think of it this way: Have you ever done a deep clean of your house or room? You’re sweeping under the couch, dusting off shelves, throwing things on the floor before you reorganize.
- You can compare what your floor looks like during this process to skin purging.
- You’re essentially doing a deep clean of your skin to really get at the root of future skin problems.
Remember, all of those blemishes that seemed to appear out of nowhere were actually forming weeks in advance, so you just sped up the job by initiating the skin purging process. So while it may look messy at first, skin purging is helping expedite the process of clearing away any potential future breakouts so that eventually you’re left with clear, glowing skin.
What does purging skin look like?
What Does Skin Purging Look Like? – In most cases, purging looks like tiny red bumps that are painful to touch. You may even notice blackheads or whiteheads, which is why many people confuse it with a traditional acne breakout. Skin purging can also cause your skin to be flaky.
Does skin purging happen all at once?
For some, a skin purge may run its full course, and for others, they may not experience one at all. A good precaution to take, however, to potentially mitigate the effects of a full purge is to ease into a new routine.
Does purging leave acne scars?
How Do You Know If Your Skin Is Purging Or Breaking Out? – While purging is a detox of the skin, where it is pushing out all the stored toxins, breakouts are the toxins stuck in your skin that are leading to acne and blackheads. A breakout could also indicate an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients, rather than a cleanse.
Signs Your Skin Is Purging | Signs Of A Breakout |
Purging pimples do not leave marks or blemishes on your skin. It actually heals the skin to form fresher skin cells. | Breakouts don’t benefit the skin; they leave marks and blemishes when they go. |
The cell turnover is faster to remove dead cells. Purging can last for anything from one or two weeks to one or two months. | Breakouts can last a while; there is no time period that indicates when the breakouts will go away. The cell turnover speed is usual. |
The purging of the skin starts after a few days of using a new product. | In a breakout, the appearance of the acne and blackheads can be concentrated on any area of the face. |
Purging appears uniformly all over the face. | If you are using products that don’t contain any of the above-mentioned ingredients, it is not purging. |
A reaction to the cream applied could manifest as a rash, but it doesn’t mean you are allergic to the product. It usually happens when you use an exfoliant that lists retinol as an ingredient. | A sudden appearance of acne after using a skincare product for over six months to a year indicates a breakout and not skin purging. |
Should I pop purging pimples?
What Can Cause Skin Purging? – Products considered “acne-fighting” or “anti-aging” can cause the skin to purge because they promote a faster skin cell turnover rate. You may find some over-the-counter products can as well, specifically products that contain retinol, salicylic acid, lactic acid, or glycolic acid.
- When your cell turnover rate is accelerated, any hidden skin “imperfections” are quickly brought to the surface.
- Existing pimples may become inflamed, microcomedones (early acne) turn into pesky blackheads and whiteheads, and/or dead skin cells rise to the surface causing visible flaking.
- Before you hesitate to try a new product, keep in mind that not all products cause skin purging! The products that cause purging do so because of certain active ingredients including: benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, and hydroxy acids ( check out our previous blog on skincare acids here ).
In addition to products, there are treatments that cause skin purging as well (due to them containing those active ingredients):
Microdermabrasions Microneedling HydraFacials Some light and laser-based treatments ( Halo & BBL ) Chemical Peels
During the purging process, be patient and gentle with your skin. It’s very vulnerable and sensitive at this point. Here are some tips for you to follow while your skin is purging:
Avoid popping any of those pimples or excessive touching of the face. These actions will only add more bacteria to your skin. Do your best to avoid harsh chemicals or exfoliants. Too much, too quickly will only extend the purging process. Ease your skin into new products, especially those containing active ingredients. To help, try incorporating one new product at a time. Give your skin 5-7 days to adjust before adding in a second product. Avoid extended sun exposure during skin purging. If you’re going to be out in the sun, be sure to apply plenty of SPF. We’re all about avoiding any unnecessary sun damage,
Looking for the perfect, tinted sunscreen? Check out EltaMD’s UV Elements Tinted Face Moisturize SPF 44 (one of our favorites) – learn more or purchase yours here!
How to tell the difference between skin purging and breaking out?
How to tell the difference between breakouts and purging. – Purging is your skin adjusting. Breakouts are a reaction. Purging is actually a sign that a product is working as intended. This usually looks like a new crop of pimples, an acne-flare up, or inflammation.
What is the longest skin purging can last?
Skin purging is a reaction to an active ingredient that speeds up skin cell turnover rate. The goal is to expose fresher, younger-looking skin cells underneath the purged layer. No two words can send a shiver down the spine of a beauty enthusiast like “the purge.” No, not the dystopian horror film — although some might say the skin care version of purging is just as heart-stoppingly scary.
“The term ‘skin purging’ refers to a reaction to an active ingredient that is increasing skin cell turnover rate,” Dr. Deanne Mraz Robinson, a board-certified dermatologist, tells Healthline. As skin cell turnover speeds up, the skin starts shedding dead skin cells faster than normal. The end goal? To expose the fresh skin cells underneath and reveal clearer, younger-looking skin.
Ah, if only it were that easy. Before these new, healthy cells can cycle to the surface, some other stuff has to rise to the top first, like the excess sebum, flakes, and buildup that clog pores (aka, all the makings of a pimple or two or 10). This is what’s not so glamorously known as “skin purging.” “As the surface layer of skin is shed more quickly, our skin is expediting its recovery and pushing everything to the surface,” Mraz Robinson says.
- She notes a purge period can prompt all kinds of pimples.
- It may look different from person to person, but you can get a mix of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, cysts, and even the tiny ‘pre-pimples’ that aren’t visible to the eye, called microcomedones.” Dry, peeling skin is also common.
While the purge isn’t ideal, it is to be expected with certain skin care ingredients. “The most common offenders are retinoids,” Mraz Robinson says. The retinoid family includes everything from retinol (a common prescription for acne-prone and aging skin, which can also be found in over-the-counter products) to topical tretinoin and the oral medication isotretinoin (both of which are prescription only).
You may experience skin purging from exfoliating acids, too. “Certain facials that involve a chemical peel component may also trigger this reaction,” Mraz Robinson says, “because again, it’s all about a reaction in response to an accelerated exfoliation.” Mraz Robinson suggests sticking to a gentle skin care routine to avoid further inflammation.
That means just the basics: a sulfate-free cleanser, a soothing moisturizer, and sunscreen during the day. And, of course, the retinoid or exfoliator that’s putting you through the purge in the first place. That’s right: It may be tempting to stop using said retinoid or exfoliating acid altogether, but resist.
“If it’s an Rx retinoid from your doctor, they gave it to you for a reason,” Mraz Robinson says. “Stick through this ‘it gets worse before it gets better’ phase.” There’s a difference between purging and having a bad reaction to a new topical product. The former is a necessary evil. The latter is well, unnecessary.
First of all, irritation from a new product that’s not from retinoids, acids, or peels is likely a case of an allergic reaction or sensitivity. “If you’re seeing breakouts in an area of your face where you don’t normally break out, it’s probably a response to a new product you’re using,” Mraz Robinson says.
In these cases, it’s best to discontinue use of the new product ASAP — because, clearly, your skin isn’t into it. Purging “will occur in a more defined area where you frequently breakout,” Mraz Robinson explains. In other words: If you’re prone to cysts around your jawline or occasional flaking under your nostrils, purging will take it to the max.
There’s one good thing about purge pimples, though: “Pimples that arise from purging will appear and disappear faster than a ‘normal’ pimple,” Mraz Robinson says. Think of purging as the terrible twos of skin care: Your skin may be throwing temper tantrums left and right, but it’s only a phase (albeit a frustrating one).
Since purging occurs when an ingredient attempts to speed up the skin’s natural pace of shedding and renewal, it should only take one full skin cycle to get through the worst of it. Everyone’s skin is unique, so that time frame can differ from person to person. Generally speaking, dermatologists say purging should be over within four to six weeks of starting a new skin care regimen.
If your purge lasts longer than six weeks, consult your dermatologist. It could be that you need to adjust the dosage and/or frequency of application. Four to six weeks may sound like a long time to wait for the skin of your dreams. Alas, there’s not a whole lot you can do to change that timeline.
- Mraz Robinson’s best advice? “Don’t pick at the acne,” she says.
- That will only extend the purge period and may even lead to permanent scarring.
- Don’t use products that will excessively dry it out, either,” she adds.
- Since many spot treatments are actually exfoliating agents (like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide), keep them far away from purging skin.
It’s already in the midst of cell turnover. Any extra stimulation in this department will probably only make things worse. “Having a HydraFacial may help speed things along,” Mraz Robinson says. This type of treatment essentially “vacuums” impurities out of pores, then infuses skin with targeted serums to treat individual concerns.
- But be warned: If you already have sensitive skin, indulging in a facial while purging may be too much for your face to handle.
- It’s a decision best made with your dermatologist or a very trusted aesthetician.
- If you’re considering adding a retinol, acid, or peel to your routine but don’t want to deal with the side effects, you can minimize purging.
Dermatologists suggest the “ease in” method. “For example, during the first week, apply the retinoid two times a week,” Mraz Robinson says. “Then for week two, apply it three times that week, working your way up to daily use.” This, she says, will allow the skin to gradually adjust to the ingredient.
You can follow the same pattern with exfoliating acids; just be sure to start with once-weekly application, and don’t exceed two to three times per week at the most. (Any more than that could lead to over-exfoliating,) This technique doesn’t apply to chemical peels, however. Those shouldn’t be used more than once a month, tops.
As annoying as it can be, this pesky purging period will all be worth it once your skin has adjusted to its new routine. Who knew that clear, youthful skin was waiting just beneath the surface that whole time? (Oh yeah dermatologists.) Jessica L. Yarbrough is a writer based in Joshua Tree, California, whose work can be found on The Zoe Report, Marie Claire, SELF, Cosmopolitan, and Fashionista.com.
What makes skin purging worse?
Skin Purging: Why Your Breakouts Might Get Worse Before They Get Better Posted On November 29, 2022 We’ve all been there: You start seeing results from your skincare routine, and your pimples start to dry up and disappear. But then, a few days later, those breakouts are back with a vengeance. What gives? This phenomenon is known as “skin purging,” and it’s actually a sign that your new skincare routine is working properly.
It happens when skincare ingredients begin working more intensely after initial use, and everything hiding beneath the surface is revealed. With the launch of our new GLOfacial tool, we’ve got all the details about skin purging to answer some of your questions and address concerns. So why does this happen, what can you do about it, and when will the breakouts subside? Let’s learn more about skin purging and why this process is not your enemy.
What is skin purging? Skin purging refers to the sudden appearance of more breakouts during the transition period after starting a new skincare routine and is very common. Purging could happen anytime, but it’s most common in the first few weeks. Using active ingredients such as retinol and exfoliating acids can cause purging to be more intense, and you may notice an increase in dryness and potential flakiness along with the breakouts.
Why does it happen? The increase in breakouts signals that your body is getting rid of all the gunk hiding beneath the surface, so skin purging is a good thing. Newly introduced active ingredients increase skin cell turnover, which means shedding more dead skin cells than usual. Excess dirt, oil, makeup, and all the buildup that clogs pores is pushed to the surface and “purged” during this process.
Essentially, breakouts already forming under the skin are sped up during the purge, leading to the blemishes we all fear. Whiteheads, blackheads, papules (small inflamed, red bumps), and cystic (large red bumps, often painful) acne are all common during this process.
- What can you do about it, and how long will it last? If you’ve already gone all in with your new routine and noticed an increase in breakouts, your first reaction may be to stop altogether.
- However, the best thing you can do for your skin during this process is to continue your new routine and avoid introducing new products, giving your skin time to adjust.
If you haven’t started your new routine, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to avoid the purge, but the answer is, unfortunately, no, not really. A more gradual transition into new products can help reduce the likelihood of intense breakouts, but you will most likely experience some form of the purge regardless.
- The good news is it’s all temporary.
- Breakouts from purging typically last anywhere from 4-6 weeks.
- This may be a little frustrating, but you’ll get through it! Keep in mind that healthy, glowing skin is worth the wait so give it some time.
- If your breakouts don’t start to clear up after 4-6 weeks, your skincare routine may not be the cause, and you may need to consult your dermatologist for a different solution.
Skin Purging After GLOfacial Treatment Our GLOfacial pore cleansing tool is designed to gently exfoliate and extract the gunk that hides inside your pores. With this groundbreaking treatment, skin purging is to be expected as all the dirt, oil, and makeup in your pores is brought to the surface.
- Trust us, this is a good thing.
- You don’t want all that dirt and dead skin hanging around.
- GLOfacial’s vacuum vortex technology provides gentle, yet powerful extractions while clarifying Salicylic and plumping Hyaluronic acid are infused in the skin to give your complexion a healthy, hydrated glow.
- You may notice an increase in breakouts shortly after your first couple GLOfacial treatments but trust the process.
Continue your GLOfacial treatments 1-2x per week, even when experiencing those breakouts (GLOfacial works wonders on stubborn whiteheads & blackheads), and keep in mind that buttery smooth, flawless skin is waiting for you on the other side. It might be annoying, but skin purging doesn’t last forever.
- Those stubborn breakouts are simply a sign that your new skincare is working its magic.
- Just remember that your skin needs time to adjust to your new regime.
- Everyone’s skin is unique, so your purge cycle may be shorter or longer than someone else.
- A general rule is to stick to your new routine for at least one skin cycle, about 28 days.
Pay attention to how your skin is reacting, and when in doubt, always consult your dermatologist for advice. You’ll have the skin of your dreams in no time if you stay consistent and patient! Keep calm and glow on✨ :
What triggers skin purging?
How to Tell the Difference Between Skin Purging vs. a Breakout – When you add a new skincare product to your routine, it’s important to also keep in mind that not all reactions are technically a skin purge. Sometimes, the product you’re using may be irritating your skin for a different reason, like clogging your pores, which can lead to acne, or triggering an allergic reaction, which may result in irritation.
Duration: The first sign to look out for is the duration of the breakout. “The life cycle of the acne (that occurs during a purge) is faster than a regular breakout. It will heal much quicker than in a typical breakout,” says Dr. Palep. “If you start a new product that is known for purging, but the breakouts are lasting longer than 4-6 weeks, then it may signal the product is not working for you or actually making things worse.” Location: Purges also tend to trigger breakouts in the spots you normally see acne symptoms, so if you’re irritated in new areas, it’s probably not purging. Active Ingredients: Another thing to keep in mind when navigating whether your skin is purging or breaking out is the active ingredients in the product you’re applying to your skin. Skin purges typically result from chemicals that exfoliate your skin, like retinols, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, and acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. So, if your skin is breaking out after using something like a hydrating oil, sunscreen, or something that can clog pores, like a comedogenic makeup formula, you likely have a traditional breakout on your hands rather than a purge.
Does vitamin C make your skin purge?
Does Vitamin C Cause Skin Purging? – Yes, Vitamin C can cause skin purging. Anything that causes your skin cells to change over more quickly, such as retinoids (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (a very weak acid that can slough off dead superficial skin), and hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, malic acid, and salicylic acid), might trigger skin purging.
Does hyaluronic acid cause purging?
Can Hyaluronic Acid Cause Purging? – Purging is your skin’s reaction to an active ingredient that increases the cell turnover rate of your skin cells. It often occurs when introducing products into your routine that are chemical exfoliants, such as salicylic or glycolic acid,
Can salicylic acid make acne worse?
Shah notes that the concentration of ingredients in your acne product doesn’t always affect how well they work, but it can. If you’re having continued issues with your skin, it’s possible the concentration of an ingredient like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide could be contributing.
Does niacinamide cause purging?
Does Niacinamide Cause Purging? – In short, niacinamide is not linked to skin purging. Purging primarily occurs due to an increase in cell turnover in the body, which niacinamide does not increase. The anti-inflammatory properties of niacinamide are meant to reduce and shorten purging symptoms rather than exacerbate them.
This ingredient is also known to minimize the formation of comedones. A product that often results in increased cell turnover is exfoliating acid. While this does result in a more rapid rate, these types of turnovers are referred to as “necessary breakouts.” This essentially refers to products that are meant to lead to healthy skin, but they must first get rid of leftover layers of sebum, or oil, and dead skin cells that are built up on the skin.
As all of these elements rise to the surface, temporary breakouts are evident that dissipate rather quickly. If purging is caused when using niacinamide, this is usually the result of another ingredient in the product. For example, many ingredients may use retinol with niacinamide, which has been known to cause skin purging.
Can vitamin C break you out?
Not only does vitamin C not cause acne, but it can help you treat it. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin C can reduce inflammation, helping to mitigate the symptoms of inflammatory skin issues like acne and psoriasis.
Does skin purge before it gets better?
Skin Purging: Why Your Breakouts Might Get Worse Before They Get Better Posted On November 29, 2022 We’ve all been there: You start seeing results from your skincare routine, and your pimples start to dry up and disappear. But then, a few days later, those breakouts are back with a vengeance. What gives? This phenomenon is known as “skin purging,” and it’s actually a sign that your new skincare routine is working properly.
It happens when skincare ingredients begin working more intensely after initial use, and everything hiding beneath the surface is revealed. With the launch of our new GLOfacial tool, we’ve got all the details about skin purging to answer some of your questions and address concerns. So why does this happen, what can you do about it, and when will the breakouts subside? Let’s learn more about skin purging and why this process is not your enemy.
What is skin purging? Skin purging refers to the sudden appearance of more breakouts during the transition period after starting a new skincare routine and is very common. Purging could happen anytime, but it’s most common in the first few weeks. Using active ingredients such as retinol and exfoliating acids can cause purging to be more intense, and you may notice an increase in dryness and potential flakiness along with the breakouts.
Why does it happen? The increase in breakouts signals that your body is getting rid of all the gunk hiding beneath the surface, so skin purging is a good thing. Newly introduced active ingredients increase skin cell turnover, which means shedding more dead skin cells than usual. Excess dirt, oil, makeup, and all the buildup that clogs pores is pushed to the surface and “purged” during this process.
Essentially, breakouts already forming under the skin are sped up during the purge, leading to the blemishes we all fear. Whiteheads, blackheads, papules (small inflamed, red bumps), and cystic (large red bumps, often painful) acne are all common during this process.
- What can you do about it, and how long will it last? If you’ve already gone all in with your new routine and noticed an increase in breakouts, your first reaction may be to stop altogether.
- However, the best thing you can do for your skin during this process is to continue your new routine and avoid introducing new products, giving your skin time to adjust.
If you haven’t started your new routine, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to avoid the purge, but the answer is, unfortunately, no, not really. A more gradual transition into new products can help reduce the likelihood of intense breakouts, but you will most likely experience some form of the purge regardless.
The good news is it’s all temporary. Breakouts from purging typically last anywhere from 4-6 weeks. This may be a little frustrating, but you’ll get through it! Keep in mind that healthy, glowing skin is worth the wait so give it some time. If your breakouts don’t start to clear up after 4-6 weeks, your skincare routine may not be the cause, and you may need to consult your dermatologist for a different solution.
Skin Purging After GLOfacial Treatment Our GLOfacial pore cleansing tool is designed to gently exfoliate and extract the gunk that hides inside your pores. With this groundbreaking treatment, skin purging is to be expected as all the dirt, oil, and makeup in your pores is brought to the surface.
- Trust us, this is a good thing.
- You don’t want all that dirt and dead skin hanging around.
- GLOfacial’s vacuum vortex technology provides gentle, yet powerful extractions while clarifying Salicylic and plumping Hyaluronic acid are infused in the skin to give your complexion a healthy, hydrated glow.
- You may notice an increase in breakouts shortly after your first couple GLOfacial treatments but trust the process.
Continue your GLOfacial treatments 1-2x per week, even when experiencing those breakouts (GLOfacial works wonders on stubborn whiteheads & blackheads), and keep in mind that buttery smooth, flawless skin is waiting for you on the other side. It might be annoying, but skin purging doesn’t last forever.
Those stubborn breakouts are simply a sign that your new skincare is working its magic. Just remember that your skin needs time to adjust to your new regime. Everyone’s skin is unique, so your purge cycle may be shorter or longer than someone else. A general rule is to stick to your new routine for at least one skin cycle, about 28 days.
Pay attention to how your skin is reacting, and when in doubt, always consult your dermatologist for advice. You’ll have the skin of your dreams in no time if you stay consistent and patient! Keep calm and glow on✨ :
Can skin purging last 3 months?
SKIN PURGING VS REACTION – Unlike skin purging, which is a temporary skin detox, a skin reaction means your skin is sensitive or allergic to ingredients in the product you’re using. If your breakout continues for more than 3 months, after first use, it could be a skin reaction.
You should also stop using the product immediately if you have any burning and reddening that does not subside in a few minutes. To tell the difference, purging tends to happen in places you frequently breakout anyway. The purging process is working with the skin’s cycle and is a phase that should clear up within 4-6 weeks of starting the new routine but can take up to 3 months – anything longer could be more of a reaction.
Similarly, If the product doesn’t contain an active ingredient such as a retinoid, exfoliating acid or peel which would or could typically cause a purging effect, then it is more likely to be a reaction to an ingredient.
Can skin purging last for two months?
A purge can last as long as two months, and you should start seeing an improvement by the six-week point, if not sooner. On the other side of a purge is cleaner, clearer skin!
How do you know if your skin is purging or reacting?
How can you tell the difference between purging and regular acne? – An allergic reaction will look red, bumpy, scaly and they are classically itchy. “Skin purging usually looks like your typical blackheads and whiteheads,” says Doyle. They may appear as small, red swollen bumps on your skin that are similar to a breakout.
Purging will likely occur in places you normally get acne (for instance, oil-prone spots like your forehead) so if they are appearing somewhere totally new on your face, it might not be due to the purge. If the new product you are using does not have active ingredients that would encourage cell turnover, then it is not purging and likely due to another factor that is creating clogged pores.
Purging should also not be confused with an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction will look red, bumpy, scaly and they are classically itchy. “Itchiness isn’t a common characteristic of purging,” says Doyle.