Here's What You Need To Know About Skin Purging

By Tiffany LinSeptember 08, 2023

We've all been there – excitedly introducing a new skincare product into our routine, only to be met with unexpected blemishes soon after. But before you give up on the product completely, you may actually be experiencing a phenomenon called "skin purging," which is not always a bad thing. Here’s everything you need to know to assess your situation if your skin seems to be reacting to a new product.

What is Skin Purging?

Skin purging is a temporary reaction that your skin may experience when you introduce certain skincare products or treatments into your routine. It occurs as a result of these products speeding up the skin's natural exfoliation process, which leads to the removal of impurities, clogged pores, and dead skin cells. Your skin may then begin to experience breakouts and reactions due to this quick turnover.

While it may appear as an aggravation of your skin condition, it's essential to recognize that skin purging is not necessarily a bad sign! In fact, it can be an indicator that the product is actually working to unclog your pores and promote healthier skin in the long run.

How Long Will It Last?

Skin purging typically starts a few weeks after first using the product and lasts for 4-6 weeks and should subside as your skin adjusts to your new regimen. However, if you’re still experiencing breakouts after this period, it’s wise to seek professional help.

How Do I Know My Skin is Purging and Not Reacting Badly?

Distinguishing between skin purging and a negative reaction to a skincare product can be challenging, but there are some key factors to consider to help you determine which one you might be experiencing:

Timing: Skin purging usually occurs shortly after introducing a new product or treatment into your routine. It typically begins within a few days to a few weeks of use and only lasts a few weeks as your skin adjusts to the new product. In contrast, an adverse reaction can happen almost immediately after using a product and may persist over time.
Location: Skin purging tends to occur in areas where you commonly experience breakouts or congestion. If the breakouts are happening in areas where you don't usually have issues, it might be an adverse reaction to the product.
Type of Blemishes: Skin purging often involves small, uniform pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads. These are generally consistent with the type of acne you typically get. If you're experiencing severe cystic acne, hives, itching, or burning, it's more likely to be an adverse reaction.
Ingredients: If you suspect a specific ingredient in the product is causing the issue, stop using the product and check its ingredient list. Research the ingredients to see if any are known to be irritants or allergens for your skin type.
Patch Test: You can also test the product on another small area of your skin to see how it reacts, such as your forearm. If you experience similar reactions, it could be a sign of an adverse reaction. To minimize the risk of an adverse reaction, we always recommend patch testing new products first and introducing products one at a time!
Consult a Dermatologist: If you're still unsure or if your skin condition worsens or becomes painful, we encourage you to consult a dermatologist. They can provide a professional evaluation and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Remember that everyone's skin is unique, and individual reactions can vary. It's better to err on the side of caution and seek guidance from a skincare professional. They can help you determine whether to continue using the product or explore alternative skincare options.

What Product Can I Use to Promote Healthy Exfoliation?

If you want to encourage gentle but effective exfoliation into your skincare routine, we recommend you try our Superfruit Lactic + Multifruit 8% AHA Exfoliating Mask. Suitable for all skin types, the gentle Superfruit Exfoliating Mask utilizes Rice Powders to refine the skin's texture, combined with Fruit-Based AHAs to illuminate and exfoliate away dead skin cells.