Have you ever started a new skincare routine only to be greeted withย more breakouts? ๐ฉ Itโs frustrating, and itโs easy to assume that your new products arenโt working. But before you toss them aside, letโs talk about whatโs actually happeningโbecause 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 itโs simply speeding up its natural healing process.
What is Skin Purging (and Why Does It Happen)?
Breakouts donโt just appear overnightโthey 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 turnoverโessentially 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 messierโdrawers 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 isnโt new acne forming; itโs pre-existing congestion being pushed out faster than it normally would. And thatโs a good thing!
How to Know If Youโre Purging (or Just Breaking Out)
Not every breakout means progressโso how do you tell the difference between skin purging vs. a negative reaction?
๐ Itโs purging ifโฆ
โ๏ธ Breakouts are appearing in areas where you typically get acne.
โ๏ธ The flare-ups happen shortly after introducing a new exfoliant, retinoid, or acne treatment.
โ๏ธ Pimples clear up faster than usual (typically within 2-6 weeks).
๐จ Itโs irritation (or a bad reaction) ifโฆ
โ Youโre breaking out in new areas where you donโt normally get acne.
โ Your skin feels excessively red, inflamed, or painful.
โ 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, itโs 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. Hereโs how to support your skin through the process and minimize discomfort:
1๏ธโฃ Donโt PickโIce Instead!
We know itโs 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.
2๏ธโฃ Use a Targeted Acne Mask
A purging skin cycle means your breakouts need to heal quicklyโand thatโs where our Acne Mask with 10% Sulfur comes in. Sulfur works by reducing inflammation, absorbing excess oil, and speeding up breakout recovery. Use it:
โ๏ธ As an overnight spot treatment on active pimples.
โ๏ธ As a weekly full-face mask to calm breakouts and prevent new congestion.
3๏ธโฃ Keep Your Routine Simple & Hydrating
Overloading your skin with too many active ingredients can make purging worse. Instead:
โ๏ธ Stick to a balanced routine with a gentle cleanser, active treatment, and a hydrating moisturizer.
โ๏ธ Avoid harsh scrubs or drying treatments, which can compromise your skin barrier and slow healing.
โ๏ธ Hydrate! Dehydrated skin overproduces oil, which can lead to even more breakouts.
4๏ธโฃ 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.
๐ก 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 Skinโs Process
The journey to clear skin isnโt always linear, but that doesnโt mean your routine isnโt working. Every day you stay consistent brings you closer to your skin goals.
๐ฟ Trust your skin. Trust the process. The results will be worth it.
If you need a little extra support through the purging phase, letโs build a personalized plan together. DM me โPURGEโ for a skincare consultation, and letโs get you to the other sideโclearer and more confident than ever.ย