Skin Purging
Think of skin purging like the skin’s version of spring cleaning where waste and debris are being eliminated. When you introduce new skincare products or treatments dead skin can come to the surface from an increase in cell turnover and skin can become red, inflamed, dry or flaky. The appearance can vary from person to person but can include rough skin, papules, pustules, blackheads, or whiteheads, almost similar to acne. Skin purging is often induced by active ingredients used in acne and anti-ageing skincare products like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and Vitamin C for instance that initiate skin responses. However, skin purging is usually temporary, typically lasting anywhere from a few days to 4-6 weeks.
Is skin purging bad?
Not necessarily, but if skin is purging, remember to be kind to your skin barrier and help reduce its inflammation. That means, only using one active every few days until skin acclimatises and its use can be increased. Use calming and simple regimens to help the skin re-calibrate and be patient. It is always consistency over quantity.
Can we avoid skin purging?
Purging may not be entirely avoidable, especially if you’re introducing potent actives into your routine for the first time. However, there are ways to minimise the full effects. I would start slowly by gradually introducing an active.
Always keep your skin hydrated and moisturised as well-hydrated skin is less prone to irritation and inflammation, which can exacerbate purging. As always, wear SPF every day. Active ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, and unprotected exposure can worsen pigmentation and scarring caused by breakouts.
And help your skin along with some nourishing and calming skin barrier-supporting ingredients like peptides (anti-inflammatory), ceramides (build skin barrier and hydrate), Jojoba oil (protect skin) and other skin humectants.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re unsure about how your skin is reacting, or if the purging seems excessive or prolonged, it’s always a good idea to consult with a skincare professional.
The difference between irritation and skin purging
Skin purging is in fact a type of skin inflammation or irritation. If your skin is feeling super irritated, inflamed, or breaking out in places you wouldn’t normally, that might be a sign that the product may be exacerbating a skin condition or that you are using too much or too many actives at once. In that case, it’s best to ease off and maybe consult a skincare professional.
Soothing skin purging
Hydration and soothing actives are key when your skin is going through a purge. A moisturiser that will help lock in moisture and support your skin barrier will help. The Calming Moisturiser and The Calming Rescue Serum are the perfect way to support the skin barrier and reduce inflammation for immediate and long-lasting relief. The Calming Moisturiser is enriched with a skin barrier strengthening prebiotic and soothing plant extracts to deliver long-lasting hydration and instant relief, bringing balance to sensitive skin. Our recent user trials have shown that 93% of participants agree skin feels comfortable, soothed, and instantly calmed.