When starting a new skincare product, it’s common to wonder if breakouts are a sign of skin purging or an adverse reaction. As a Licensed Esthetician and skilled Acne specialist, let me break this down for you.

What is Purging?

Purging occurs when active ingredients such as salicylic acid, retinoids, or glycolic acid work to accelerate cell turnover (your skin's cycle). These ingredients penetrate deep into the skin, unclogging pores and pushing out impurities, which can result in small, acne-like breakouts. Although frustrating, this is a sign the product is actually working, clearing out clogged pores before revealing smoother skin.

Purging can last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on factors like your skin type, the products you’re using, and your consistency in following your routine. Think of it as your skin going through a “detox” phase. Without this, it’s similar to applying deodorant without showering—temporarily masking the problem without addressing the root cause. 

Signs of a Negative Reaction

On the other hand, a bad reaction is more severe and uncomfortable. Signs include redness, rashes, itching, burning, welts, excessive dryness, skin peeling, or heightened sensitivity. Your skin may feel inflamed and irritated, and reactions can often appear not only on the face, but spread to areas like the chin or neckline.

If you’re experiencing this, discontinue use of the product immediately. To calm your skin and repair damage, I recommend our Hydra Burst Serum. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid for deep hydration and Arnica to reduce redness and inflammation, this serum will soothe irritated skin, helping to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Pairing the Hydra Burst Serum with cold compresses to your skin, can also speed up the recovery process.

All in all, purging may be a necessary step toward achieving clearer, healthier skin, while negative reactions signal it’s time to re-evaluate the products you’re using. If you’re unsure whether your skin is purging or reacting, consult with a skin professional here at Skinostics, by sending us a direct message or an email, with supporting pictures.

What ever you do, don't keep using products that you're unsure about. 
And don’t forget, you can always head over to our site to grab the Hydra Burst serum for relief from any irritation or redness!