Skin Purging

Skin purging is a common phenomenon that can occur when introducing certain skincare products or actives into your routine. It is most commonly noticed when one introduces retinol, AHA or BHA into the skincare routine. It is often mistaken for a breakout, but it is actually a sign that the skin is undergoing a process of excelerated cell renewal and detoxification.

When you introduce a chemical exfoliant or retinoids, to your routine, you’ll find that these ingredients can accelerate the skin’s natural shedding process, leading to an increase in cell turnover. This can cause existing impurities and congestion in the pores to rise to the surface of the skin, resulting in temporary breakouts and blemishes. The duration of skin purging can vary depending on the individual and the specific product or ingredient being used, but it typically lasts for a few weeks. During this time, it is important to be patient & continue using the new product or ingredient as directed and to avoid over-exfoliating or picking at the skin.

It is also important to note that not all breakouts are a result of skin purging. If the breakouts persist beyond a few weeks or are accompanied by excessive dryness, redness, or irritation, it may be a sign of an adverse reaction to the product or ingredient. To minimize the risk of skin purging, it is important to introduce new products and ingredients slowly and to patch test before applying them to the entire face. It is also important to choose products that are formulated for your skin type and concerns, and to avoid using products that are too harsh or abrasive for the skin.