Is Skin Purging Normal? What You Should Know

by Nancy Pham

If you have ever started a new skincare routine or treatment and noticed your skin breaking out more than usual, you might have wondered if something has gone wrong. The good news is, it is not always a bad sign. In many cases, your skin could be going through something called skin purging, and it is more common than you think.

Let us break down what skin purging is, how to tell if it is happening, and when to ride it out or speak to your skin therapist.

 

What Is Skin Purging

Skin purging is a temporary reaction that can happen when your skin is adjusting to active ingredients or professional treatments. It occurs when your skin’s cell turnover speeds up, bringing hidden congestion and breakouts to the surface more quickly than usual.

This often happens after starting products or treatments that include ingredients such as

  • Retinol or vitamin A

  • Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic or lactic acid

  • Beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid

  • Vitamin C

  • Professional facials like skin needling or peels

These ingredients and treatments are designed to renew the skin, so if there is anything sitting under the surface, it will often come up sooner than it would have on its own.

 

How to Tell If It Is Purging or a Breakout

Purging and a regular breakout can look similar, but there are a few signs to help you tell them apart.

Signs it could be skin purging

  • Breakouts are appearing in areas where you normally get congestion

  • Pimples are mostly whiteheads, blackheads or small surface-level breakouts

  • It started soon after introducing a new active product or treatment

  • It begins to settle within two to six weeks

Signs it might be a breakout or irritation

  • Pimples are showing up in areas where you do not usually break out

  • Breakouts are inflamed, painful or cystic

  • Your skin feels itchy, hot, dry or tight

  • It continues to worsen after several weeks

If you are not sure what is going on, it is best to stop using the product and check in with your skin therapist. They will help you understand what your skin needs and whether to continue or change your approach.

 

Why Purging Is Not Always a Bad Thing

Even though it feels frustrating, purging can actually be a positive sign that your new product or treatment is working. Think of it like a spring clean for your skin. All the congestion that would have eventually come up is now being brought to the surface at a faster pace.

Once this phase is over, most people notice clearer, smoother skin with fewer breakouts in the long run. As long as your skin is not reacting badly, it can be worth sticking with it.

 

How to Support Your Skin During Purging

Here are a few tips to help your skin through the purging process

Keep your routine simple
Avoid layering too many new products at once. Use a gentle cleanser, a soothing moisturiser and a good sunscreen during the day.

Keep your skin hydrated
Hydration supports healing and helps maintain a strong skin barrier.

Avoid picking or squeezing
This will only cause more inflammation and may lead to scarring or longer healing times.

Be consistent
If it is truly purging, staying on track with your new routine will help your skin settle more quickly.

Book in for a treatment
LED light therapy or a calming facial can help reduce inflammation and support your skin through this phase.

 

Skin purging is a normal part of the process for many people when starting active skincare or professional treatments. It usually means your skin is adjusting and beginning to work through deeper congestion.

If you think your skin is purging or are unsure whether it is a reaction, chat with one of our experienced skin therapists. We are always here to guide you through your skin journey and help you get the best results for your skin.

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