The Difference Between Skin Purging and Breakouts
Skin purging and breakouts are two different phenomena that can occur when starting a new skincare product or treatment. Understanding the difference between the two is important for managing your skincare routine effectively.
SKIN PURGING
Skin purging is a temporary reaction that can occur when you introduce certain active ingredients into your skincare routine. These ingredients, such as retinoids, AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), or exfoliating enzymes, work by increasing cell turnover and promoting the removal of dead skin cells. When you start using these ingredients, they can accelerate the skin's natural exfoliation process, which may lead to an initial increase in breakouts or congestion.
During skin purging, existing microcomedones (clogged pores that haven't come to the surface yet) may rapidly come to the surface, resulting in the appearance of more pimples or blemishes. However, these breakouts should be limited to areas where you typically experience breakouts, and they should resolve relatively quickly as the skin adjusts to the active ingredients. Skin purging usually occurs within the first few weeks of using a new product and should subside as your skin adapts.
BREAKOUTS
Breakouts, on the other hand, are a more general term that refers to the formation of new pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, or cysts. Breakouts can occur due to various factors, including hormonal changes, excess oil production, bacteria, or clogged pores. They are not directly related to the introduction of new skincare products or treatments.
Unlike skin purging, breakouts can appear in areas where you don't typically experience acne or congestion. They can be triggered by factors such as stress, dietary changes, hormonal fluctuations, or using comedogenic products that clog the pores. Breakouts can persist for longer periods and may require targeted treatments to reduce inflammation, control oil production, or address bacterial overgrowth.
To differentiate between skin purging and regular breakouts, consider the following:
Timing: Skin purging typically occurs shortly after starting a new skincare product or treatment, usually within the first few weeks. Breakouts can occur at any time and may not be associated with any recent changes in your skincare routine.
Location: Skin purging is localised to areas where you typically experience breakouts or congestion. Breakouts can occur in new or unexpected areas.
Duration: Skin purging should resolve relatively quickly, within a few weeks, as your skin adjusts to the new products or treatment. Breakouts may persist for longer periods, and new breakouts may continue to appear.
If you're experiencing breakouts and are unsure whether it's skin purging or a reaction to a product, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can assess your skin, review your skincare routine, and provide personalised advice and recommendations to help manage breakouts effectively.