Have you experienced an acne breakout after introducing a new active ingredient into your skincare routine?
You might be experiencing the dreaded "skin purging."
In this guide, we explain what skin purging is and everything you need to know about it...
What is skin purging?
Skin purging is a skin reaction that occurs when a new product or active ingredient is introduced into your beauty routine. The most common active ingredients known to cause this type of reaction include retinoids, chemical exfoliants, and AHAs/BHAs. By accelerating skin cell turnover, these ingredients trigger a "cleansing" wave in which the skin expels impurities and toxins from the pores, resulting in the appearance of blemishes, blackheads, whiteheads, or even cystic acne.
Causes and triggering factors
Skin purging can be triggered by the introduction of powerful ingredients that accelerate the cell renewal cycle. Factors such as genetics, skin type, and skin sensitivity can influence the intensity and duration of purging.
The process of skin purging
Skin purging can be triggered by the introduction of powerful ingredients that accelerate the cell renewal cycle. Factors such as genetics, skin type, and skin sensitivity can influence the intensity and duration of purging.
How long does skin purging last?
Skin purging can vary in duration and progression depending on the individual, and it can take weeks for the skin to adapt to new products and for the effects to gradually diminish. It can last around 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, the skin's appearance may worsen before improving. It's important to be patient and stick with the routine so your skin can adapt to the new product. Don't get discouraged.
Common symptoms during purging
Appearance of breakouts and pimples in specific areas of the skin.
Open or closed comedones appearing as whiteheads on the skin.
Temporary increase in sebum production.
Differences between skin purging and allergic reaction
Symptom identification
It is essential to distinguish between skin purging and an allergic reaction or irritation. Purging usually manifests with breakouts, pimples, and whiteheads, while an allergic reaction can cause redness, intense itching, and swelling. Purging symptoms are generally temporary and improve over time, unlike an allergic reaction which can worsen and require medical attention.
How to act in case of an adverse reaction
If you experience severe symptoms like intense itching or swelling, it's important to consult a healthcare professional immediately. If you suspect an allergic reaction, discontinue use of products that may be causing irritation and consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. It is crucial to follow medical recommendations to alleviate symptoms and prevent future skin complications.
Preventing skin purging
Tips to avoid purging
If you want to prevent purging when adding a new cosmetic to your routine, you need to introduce it gradually. As a starting point, we recommend using the formula once a week and increasing the frequency based on how your skin reacts. Additionally, if it's a product containing retinol, it's advisable to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase it. Remember, it's important to always listen to your skin's needs.
Every skin is unique, and simply adding active ingredients to your routine does not mean you will experience purging. Also, it's important to note that not all active ingredients cause this effect… For example, less aggressive active ingredients, botanical alternatives to retinol, and gentle clays.
Importance of hydration and sun protection
Hydration and sun protection are essential for keeping skin healthy and preventing purging.
Some recommendations are:
Use a moisturizer suitable for your skin type.
Apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
Drink enough water to keep skin hydrated from within.
Protect your skin from the sun with hats and sunglasses.
Recommended products during purging
If you are already experiencing skin purging, there are some things you can do to mitigate its effects. Try to use products with ingredients that repair the skin barrier, such as ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. It is also advisable to use soothing ingredients, such as mallow extract, to reduce inflammation and irritation. And finally, avoid products that dry out the skin, such as high concentrations of retinol, as these can worsen the reaction.
Beneficial ingredients for the skin
CERAMIDES
Help strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture.
NIACINAMIDE
Reduces inflammation and improves skin texture.
HYALURONIC ACID
Provides deep hydration and helps repair the skin. It is also advisable to use soothing ingredients, such as mallow extract, to reduce inflammation and irritation. And finally, avoid products that dry out the skin, such as high concentrations of retinol, as these can worsen the reaction.
Specific products to counteract purging
Mix a few drops of Intelligent Frontier Facial Oil with Ideal Rebalancing Level Serum and apply to clean skin.
Then, seal everything in with Nutritive Repair Emulsion.
Post-Skin Purging Care
Post-Purging Care Routine
After going through the skin purging phase, it is crucial to maintain an adequate care routine to help the skin recover and restore its natural balance. Perform a deep cleanse with Charcoal Peace Calming Cleanser. Apply The London Mask twice a week. Try the natural alternative to retinol: Plant Perfection Gel Serum.
Maintaining healthy and radiant skin
Once the purging phase is over, it is important to maintain a consistent care routine to ensure that the skin remains healthy and radiant in the long term.
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
Gentle cosmetics: Opt for mild, non-irritating products to keep skin balanced. For this, we recommend our skin consultation service, where you can discover which product is most suitable for your skin type, how to make the most of your facial routine, and when or how to apply your favorite Twelve products.
Balanced diet: A diet rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids can promote skin health from within.
Rest and exercise: Adequate rest and regular physical activity can contribute to more luminous and healthy skin.