In our many years of experience with skincare, we’ve learned that very few people are blessed with the type of skin which never develops a blemish or two. In fact, over a third (34%) of UK adults have suffered from acne at some point in their life. 11.5% of UK adults are currently suffering from acne. Almost 1 in every 4 young adults in the UK (24%) currently have some form of acne.
Developing spots is often what prompts people to look for a new skincare regime, however, many of them comment on the fact that they seem to notice MORE spots in the early days of trying new products.
But, did you know that this might actually be a good thing? Skin purging is the phenomenon which describes the act of your skin pushing out old impurities, thanks to new actives in your skincare, and although it can feel demoralising at first, it can often lead to skin which is clearer than ever before. So, what do you need to know about skin purging?
What is Skin Purging?
Skin purging is a temporary reaction that can occur when you introduce certain skincare products into your routine, particularly those that increase cell turnover or unclog pores. This process accelerates the rate at which your skin sheds dead cells and brings underlying congestion to the surface, leading to an initial increase in breakouts or blemishes.
How Long Does Skin Purging Take?
The key distinction between skin purging and a negative reaction is timing. Purging typically occurs within a few days to a few weeks after starting a new product, especially if it contains ingredients like retinoids, AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). These ingredients work by promoting skin renewal and exfoliation, which can temporarily exacerbate existing acne or congestion.
While skin purging is a natural part of the skin’s adjustment to new skincare products, there are steps you can take to minimise its occurrence or severity:
- Introduce new products gradually: Start by using the product every other day or a few times a week, then gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts. This allows your skin to acclimate to the active ingredients without overwhelming it.
- Patch test: Before applying a new product all over your face, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions or sensitivities.
- Choose the right products: Look for non-comedogenic and gentle formulations, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Avoid using multiple new products at once, as this can make it difficult to pinpoint the cause of any reactions.
- Hydrate and moisturise: Keep your skin hydrated and moisturised, as dryness can exacerbate skin purging. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier.
- Sun protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen daily. Some skincare ingredients that may cause purging, such as retinoids, can also increase sun sensitivity, so sunscreen is especially important.
- Be patient: Understand that skin purging is a temporary phase that typically subsides within a few weeks. Resist the urge to discontinue use of a new product prematurely, as this can disrupt the skin’s adjustment process.
Which Products Can Help with Skin Purging?
Elemis Clarifying Serum
Elemis Clarifying Serum contains gentle yet effective ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide, which help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production. By targeting underlying congestion without causing irritation, it can assist in minimising and managing skin purging, promoting a clearer complexion over time.
Medik8 Blemish SOS
Medik8 Blemish SOS features a potent blend of active ingredients such as salicylic acid and niacinamide, which penetrate deep into pores to dissolve impurities and calm inflammation. Its targeted formula swiftly addresses breakouts, helping to accelerate the skin’s natural healing process and reduce the duration and severity of skin purging.
Murad Rapid Relief Sulfur Mask
Murad Rapid Relief Sulfur Mask is enriched with 4% sulphur to rapidly reduce acne-causing bacteria and absorb excess oil. Its calming formula also contains zinc oxide and licorice extract to soothe irritation and inflammation. Applied as a spot treatment, it helps accelerate the healing of blemishes, aiding in the resolution of skin purging.
REN Clean Skincare Clearcalm 3 Replenishing Gel Cream
REN Clean Skincare Clearcalm 3 Replenishing Gel Cream is infused with bioactives that calm and soothe irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with skin purging. Its lightweight, hydrating formula also helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance, preventing excessive dryness and promoting a clearer, more balanced complexion during the purging process.
Dermalogica Deep Breakout Liquid Patch
Dermalogica Deep Breakout Liquid Patch forms a transparent, protective barrier over blemishes, shielding them from external aggressors while delivering powerful acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide. This targeted treatment accelerates the healing of breakouts, minimising their appearance and easing the discomfort associated with skin purging.