Have you ever started a new skincare routine only to be greeted with more breakouts? 😩 It’s frustrating, and it’s easy to assume that your new products aren’t working. But before you toss them aside, let’s talk about what’s actually happening—because those breakouts might just be a sign of progress.
This common experience has a name: skin purging. And while it can feel like your skin is rebelling, the reality is that it’s simply speeding up its natural healing process.
What is Skin Purging (and Why Does It Happen)?
Breakouts don’t just appear overnight—they start as microscopic clogs called micro-comedones, which can sit beneath the surface for weeks or even months before they become visible.
When you introduce acne-fighting actives (like retinoids, mandelic acid, or benzoyl peroxide), they work by accelerating cell turnover—essentially fast-tracking those hidden clogs to the surface all at once.
Think of it like spring cleaning your home. When you first start, things look messier—drawers are emptied, closets are overturned, and garbage bags pile up. But that chaos is actually a sign of deep cleaning.
Your skin works the same way. The temporary flare-up isn’t new acne forming; it’s pre-existing congestion being pushed out faster than it normally would. And that’s a good thing!
How to Know If You’re Purging (or Just Breaking Out)
Not every breakout means progress—so how do you tell the difference between skin purging vs. a negative reaction?
🔎 It’s purging if…
✔️ Breakouts are appearing in areas where you typically get acne.
✔️ The flare-ups happen shortly after introducing a new exfoliant, retinoid, or acne treatment.
✔️ Pimples clear up faster than usual (typically within 2-6 weeks).
🚨 It’s irritation (or a bad reaction) if…
❌ You’re breaking out in new areas where you don’t normally get acne.
❌ Your skin feels excessively red, inflamed, or painful.
❌ The breakouts last longer than 6 weeks with no signs of improvement.
If your skin is burning, peeling excessively, or breaking out in unusual ways, it might be a reaction rather than a purge. In that case, it’s time to reassess the product and adjust your routine.
How to Get Through the Purging Phase (With Less Stress!)
Purging is temporary, but it can still feel like a rollercoaster. Here’s how to support your skin through the process and minimize discomfort:
1️⃣ Don’t Pick—Ice Instead!
We know it’s tempting, but picking only leads to more inflammation, scarring, and a longer healing process. Instead, try icing breakouts to calm redness and swelling. Wrap an ice cube in a soft cloth and hold it on the breakout for 1-2 minutes to reduce inflammation.
2️⃣ Use a Targeted Acne Mask
A purging skin cycle means your breakouts need to heal quickly—and that’s where our Acne Mask with 10% Sulfur comes in. Sulfur works by reducing inflammation, absorbing excess oil, and speeding up breakout recovery. Use it:
✔️ As an overnight spot treatment on active pimples.
✔️ As a weekly full-face mask to calm breakouts and prevent new congestion.
3️⃣ Keep Your Routine Simple & Hydrating
Overloading your skin with too many active ingredients can make purging worse. Instead:
✔️ Stick to a balanced routine with a gentle cleanser, active treatment, and a hydrating moisturizer.
✔️ Avoid harsh scrubs or drying treatments, which can compromise your skin barrier and slow healing.
✔️ Hydrate! Dehydrated skin overproduces oil, which can lead to even more breakouts.
4️⃣ Be Patient & Stay Consistent
The biggest mistake people make during purging? Quitting too soon. Clear skin takes time, and those who stick with their routine through the tough phase are the ones who see long-term results.
💡 Remember: Purging usually lasts 4-6 weeks. If you can push through, your skin will come out stronger, clearer, and healthier.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Skin’s Process
The journey to clear skin isn’t always linear, but that doesn’t mean your routine isn’t working. Every day you stay consistent brings you closer to your skin goals.
🌿 Trust your skin. Trust the process. The results will be worth it.
If you need a little extra support through the purging phase, let’s build a personalized plan together. DM me “PURGE” for a skincare consultation, and let’s get you to the other side—clearer and more confident than ever.