Skin purging...what is it and how we fix it.
Skin Purging?
The term skin purging has become a hot topic in the skincare community. Is it real or just another skincare myth? At NGHB, we’re here to tell you: skin purging is real. If you’re committed to an active skincare routine, chances are you’ve experienced it or will at some point. So, what exactly is skin purging, and how can you manage it?
What is Skin Purging?
Skin purging occurs when a skincare product accelerates your skin’s cell turnover rate, bringing impurities like dead skin cells and clogged pores to the surface faster than usual. Skincare expert Fiona Brackenbury explains, “Those breakouts were always there, lurking under the skin. The product didn’t cause them—it just sped up the skin's renewal process and brought them to the surface.” Although it might sound intimidating, skin purging is a temporary step toward achieving clearer, healthier skin.
What Does Skin Purging Look Like?
Purging skin can look different for everyone. As Fiona Brackenbury notes, “For some, it may look like regular pimples, whiteheads, or even inflamed and hard spots.” Each person’s skin reacts differently, so don’t be surprised if your purging doesn’t resemble your friend’s or even a family member’s experience.
Skin Purging vs. Breakouts: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse a typical breakout with skin purging, but the causes are quite different. A traditional breakout can be caused by factors like stress, a poor diet, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, or using a product that’s too rich for your skin. On the other hand, skin purging is triggered by using a new product that speeds up cell turnover, pushing pre-existing breakouts to the surface more quickly.
What Skincare Products Cause Purging?
The usual culprits behind skin purging are products containing exfoliating acids such as AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids), and PHAs (poly-hydroxy acids). These acids exfoliate by breaking down the bonds between old skin cells and promoting the growth of fresh, healthy skin. However, this process can push impurities to the surface, leading to purging.
How Long Does Skin Purging Last?
While every complexion is different, skin purging can last anywhere from a week to a month. Although this may seem discouraging, remember that skin purging is temporary. Once it’s over, your skin will be clearer and healthier, revealing a more radiant complexion.
What to Do If Your Skin is Purging
If you’re experiencing skin purging, your first instinct may be to stop using the product. However, this isn’t always the best option. Fiona Brackenbury suggests, “If the purging is too intense, try cutting back on the product’s use. Instead of using it daily, reduce the frequency.” This can help make the purging process more manageable, though it may take longer to see results.
Alternatively, you can continue using the product as directed and push through the purge. For best results, try incorporating a retinal to control oil production and maintain skin balance. Double cleansing, especially at night, is also key to preventing bacteria buildup. We recommend using a gentle cleanser to support your skin’s microbiome and maintain its balance.
How to Prevent Skin Purging
The best way to reduce the likelihood of skin purging is to introduce new skincare products gradually. Although it’s tempting to dive right into using a new product daily, especially one you’re excited about, it’s wise to start slow. If your skin is prone to sensitivity or purging, start using the new product once or twice a week, then increase the frequency as your skin adjusts.
Incorporating a retinol can also help reduce purging by regulating oil production and preventing clogged pores. By alternating exfoliating acids with a retinal, you can help break the cycle of blemishes, promoting clearer skin and reducing future breakouts.