Skin purging occurs when you start using a new product or after a facial treatment that increases the skin cell turnover rate. Products that actively speed up the process of the skin cell turnover cycle will help reveal healthier skin cells, but not without first “purging” all the gunk that was residing underneath your skin. This gunk includes flakes of dry skin, already present buildup, and excess sebum.
Since the product you are using is increasing the rate of skin cell turnover, all the gunk will inevitably rise to the surface of your pores quickly. New acne may make you question whether or not to stop using a product. Purging is a necessary process that your skin must go through to adjust to new skincare products.
Purging vs. Breakout
It is easy to mistake your skin purging as a breakout and immediately disregard the skincare products you are using. However, noting the differences between purging and breakouts can help you differentiate between the two. Then, you can make an informed decision on whether or not to scrap or keep the product.
Let’s start with something we are all familiar with: breakouts
Breakouts are frustrating and annoying, but most importantly, they are a reaction to using a new product. A breakout is an indication of clogged pores, an allergic reaction, or irritation from the product itself. Bacteria feed on all the gunk and that leads to inflammation of the skin. Breakouts often pop up in new areas of the face where acne usually does not occur, hence a reaction to a product. Acne breakouts cause red, irritated pimples to form. These clogged pores will eventually find their way to the surface. On the other hand, purging allows that skin cell turnover to occur faster.
Unlike breakouts, purging is the first sign of a product that will benefit your skin long-term. Rather than being a reaction to a product, purging is an indication that the product is speeding up that process of skin cell turnover. Again, in comparison to the red irritated pimples of breakouts, purging takes form in blackheads and flesh-colored bumps on the skin. Additionally, unlike breakouts that occur in new areas of the face, purging often occurs in areas where acne pops up frequently. Skin purging also appears and disappears quicker than breakouts. Continuing use of a product when purging occurs increases the frequency of that skin cell turnover cycle and helps improve the texture of your skin in the long-term.
Knowing the difference between these two effects of a product is important to decide when to stop using a product when a breakout occurs, and when to continue using the product when skin purging occurs.
How long purging lasts and tips on dealing with it
The good news is that this annoying side effect is temporary. How long purging lasts depends on the individual, but on average, it lasts about a month. This is also the amount of time it takes for your new skin to come through at the end of a skin cell turnover cycle. If at the 6-8 week mark you do not see that your skin is starting to improve, this might be a time to either stop using the product or see a professional.
Can A Facial Really Make You Break Out?
There are many factors that contribute to breakouts — from hormonal to environmental — but one of the most surprising is a facial.
Here are some common reasons for a post-facial breakout, plus what you should do if this happens to you.
If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin
Those who are easily irritated or prone to acne are much more likely to experience a post-facial breakout than others. That’s why it’s extra important to tell your esthetician about your skin struggles before the treatment begins.
If a blemish is already forming
If you run your fingers across your face and feel little blemishes forming under the skin, you can pretty much guarantee a facial will bring them to a head. Any breakouts that are already present below will be tickled to the surface, thanks to stimulation and exfoliation. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – just be sure you don’t pick or pop the pimples post-treatment. Leave the extractions to the pros.
If you haven’t had a facial in a long time (or ever)
Facials are sort of like therapy: You have to dig deep to see progress. A good esthetician will spend time massaging, gently prodding, and exfoliating the skin to release all of the sebum, dead skin, and dirt that has been building up in the pores. These will make your skin purge. Sometimes, simply by dislodging built-up debris that is clogging the pores, the normal circulatory mechanism of extruding sebum and dead skin cells is restored and can lead to a transient breakout.
Too much force
An important note of caution: A facial should never, ever hurt. While extractions — that’s removing a clogged pore or relieving a zit — may feel uncomfortable, you should never experience intense burning or pain. Trying to force out a blemish that hasn’t fully formed will intensify the swelling, prolonging the time it needs to heal, and can even lead to discoloration.
What to do if you get a post-facial breakout
Do not stress if your skin is acting up – after all, that will only make things worse. While you may be tempted to reach for every spot treatment and mask in your medicine cabinet, resist the temptation. Because your pores are vulnerable, any intense ingredients can exacerbate inflammation. Instead, go for a “less is more” approach. Try a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen until you’re in the clear. You may also want to consider going makeup-free for a day or two, so that your pores can breathe and to prevent any bacteria from being passed by makeup brushes. One of the most effective ways to keep breakouts at bay is by keeping your face clean.
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