Purging skin, a term that has been gaining popularity in the skincare community. It is often associated with the use of certain skincare products, particularly those that contain exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).
However, what exactly is purging skin and is it a good or bad thing for our skin? In this article, we will explore the clinical research behind purging skin and provide you with some helpful tips on how to deal with it.
If you’re still perplexed by this skin phenomenon, let’s go over the basics to clear things up!
What is Purging Skin?
Purging skin occurs when your skin experiences a sudden increase in cell turnover rate. This can result in a temporary flare-up of breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Essentially, purging skin is a process where your skin is shedding its old, dead skin cells at a faster rate than usual. This process can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the individual’s skin type and the severity of the purging.
Why Does Purging Skin Happen?
It’s a fact that our skin typically undergoes a renewal process every 28 days.
However, if you incorporate active skincare ingredients such as retinoids or exfoliating acids into your routine, it can speed up the rate of cell turnover.
Ingredients like
- Retinol
- AHAs
- BHAs (such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid)
are commonly found in skincare products that cause skin purging. These skincare actives work to reveal a healthier, brighter, and smoother complexion by expelling oil and debris trapped beneath the surface of your skin.
As a result, purging of the skin may occur, which can be accompanied by symptoms of irritated skin such as
- Clogged pores
- Minor acne flare-ups
- Skin peeling
- Flakiness
These ingredients work by exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells, which can help to unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Is Purging Skin Good or Bad?
The answer to this question depends on the individual and their skin type.
Skin purging is not always a negative thing, contrary to popular belief. This is not an April Fool’s prank, but rather a serious statement.
It can actually be beneficial for your skin. While the idea of skin purging may bring to mind images of gunk and blackheads being extracted from pores, it is not something to fear.
In fact, it’s excellent news if you’ve invested in costly skincare products since a skin purge following their usage indicates that they have been effective.
However, for others, purging skin can be a bad thing as it can cause irritation, inflammation, and even more breakouts.
How to Deal with Purging Skin?
If you’re experiencing skin purging, the best thing you can do is to be patient and wait for it to pass.
In the meantime, you can follow a simple, gentle skincare routine to help clear up acne within a month.
Here are some steps you can take:
Cleanse
Cleansing is an essential step in any skincare routine and is crucial for dealing with skin purging.
It’s recommended to use a gentle cleanser with lukewarm water to wash your face at least twice a day to keep it clear, fresh, and free from debris and dead skin cells.
Tone
For effective skincare, a proper CTM (Cleanse-Tone-Moisturize) routine is necessary.
To protect your skin barrier, consider adding a toner to your daily skincare regimen.
Treat
During skin purging, your skin may become vulnerable to irritations, inflammation, and dryness.
To give it some much-needed TLC, opt for hydrating serums which protects the skin’s surface and keeps it hydrated and supple.
Ingredients like ceramides and peptides can also help protect your skin barrier, aid in inflammation relief, and even out rough skin textures while keeping it moisturized.
Moisturize
Antioxidant-rich skincare is essential, especially when dealing with flakiness, painful bumps, and inflammation.
It delivers smoother, brighter, and healthier skin and ensures your pores are free and unclogged from any dirt, debris, or excess oils.
Exfoliate
While dealing with skin purging, it’s important to avoid physical exfoliation that could worsen your skin situation. Instead, opt for chemical exfoliators once a week to slough off dead cells and keep your pores unclogged for clear and hydrated skin.
Protect
During skin purging, your skin may become more sensitive. It’s highly recommended to take special care of your skin against sun exposure.
Skin purging is a natural process that happens to everyone. Trust the process and follow a simple but effective skincare routine to achieve brighter, radiant, and beautiful skin.
Additional Tips
Purging skin is a temporary process, and your skin will eventually return to its normal state.
- It is essential to keep your skin well hydrated by using a gentle, hydrating moisturizer. This will help to soothe any irritation or inflammation caused by the purging process.
- It is important to avoid using any other exfoliating products, such as scrubs or peels, as this can exacerbate the purging process.
- Be patient and give your skin time to adjust to the new skincare products.
Summary
Purging skin can be a temporary and uncomfortable experience for some individuals. However, it is a natural process that occurs when your skin is adjusting to new skincare products.
If you are experiencing purging skin, it is important to be patient and take care of your skin by using gentle, hydrating products.
As always, if you have any concerns or questions about your skin, it is best to consult with a dermatologist.
Take Care of Yourself!
Also Read
