Why Is My Skin Getting Worse? What Is Purging?

When you start a new skincare routine or add a powerful active ingredient like retinoids or exfoliating acids, you might notice an increase in breakouts, redness, or small bumps. This process is often known as “purging” and, while it may feel discouraging, it’s typically a normal and temporary part of skincare improvement.

In this blog, we’ll explore what skin purging is, why it happens, why it’s actually a good sign, and what you can do to manage it.

What Is Skin Purging and Why Does It Happen?

Purging is triggered by ingredients that increase cell turnover. When new, healthier cells are being produced more rapidly, old, damaged cells and impurities are pushed to the surface.

While this is a healthy process, it can cause temporary congestion and irritation as the skin works to expel dead cells, dirt, and oil. This can make your skin seem worse before it gets better, but it’s essentially a "fast-track" to smoother, clearer skin.

Common signs of purging include:

• Small, clustered breakouts, often around the forehead, chin, or cheeks
• Increased blackheads or whiteheads
• Minor dryness or flakiness
• Redness or mild inflammation

Unlike standard breakouts, which can occur randomly and in new areas, purging tends to happen where you typically experience clogged pores or breakouts.

Ingredients that commonly cause purging include:

• Retinoids (e.g., retinol, tretinoin)
• Exfoliating acids (e.g., salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid)
• Vitamin C (for some people)

These ingredients stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and clear blocked pores, making the brief purging period worth the eventual results.

How to Tell If It's Purging or a Reaction

Understanding whether your skin is purging or reacting poorly to a product can be tricky, but here are a few pointers:

• Duration: Purging generally lasts 4-6 weeks and then starts to subside. If the irritation or breakouts persist beyond this timeframe, it may be an adverse reaction.
• Location: Purging usually happens in areas prone to breakouts. If you experience congestion in areas that are usually clear, it might be a reaction.
• Type of breakout: Purging generally involves tiny, clustered breakouts, while reactions may cause swelling, burning, or large, cystic pimples.

What to Do About Skin Purging

While purging may be a natural part of the skin renewal process, you can take steps to minimize discomfort and help your skin adjust.

1. Introduce new products slowly: Start by applying active ingredients once or twice a week and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts. This helps your skin acclimate to the ingredients more gradually.

2. Be patient and consistent: Stick to your routine even if your skin feels rough at first. With consistency, your skin will begin to clear, and the benefits of increased cell turnover will shine through.

3. Avoid over-exfoliation: Using too many exfoliating products simultaneously can over-stress the skin. Limit active ingredients and use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers to prevent irritation.

4. Consult a professional: If you’re unsure if it’s purging or if you’re experiencing intense reactions, a skincare professional can provide guidance and adjust your routine as needed.

Is Purging a Good Sign?

Yes! Although it may be challenging to see in the moment, purging is actually a sign that your skincare routine is effectively clearing out impurities. After the purging phase, most people notice smoother, more even skin with fewer breakouts.

Final Takeaway

While skin purging may feel frustrating, it’s usually a temporary and normal reaction to increased cell turnover. By being patient, sticking to your routine, and giving your skin the support it needs, you can achieve healthier, glowing skin in the long run.