Purging vs. Breaking Out: Know the Difference Before You Panic
So you just got a facial or you started a new skincare product… and now you’re breaking out. Don’t freak out!
Is your skin adjusting to it or rejecting it? Let’s talk about it.
Because not every breakout is a purge, and not every purge is a bad thing!
What is Skin Purging?
Purging happens when a product accelerates your skin’s natural cell turnover (example: by use of active skincare ingredients such as AHAs and BHAs).
Instead of clogged pores forming slowly over weeks, everything underneath comes up faster.
What does this mean?
It means that what was already brewing underneath the surface of your skin is coming out all at once!
You’ll typically see purging with ingredients like:
Retinol/Retinoids
AHAs (Glycolic or Lactic Acid)
BHAs (Salicylic Acid)
Chemical Peels
Enzymes
Purging usually:
Happens in areas where you normally break out
Starts within 1-2 weeks of using said active
Improves within 4-6 weeks
Appears as small whiteheads or inflamed acne
The best part is that it’s temporary and is part of the process. It means it’s working.
What is a Breakout?
A breakout is your skin’s way of saying “Absolutely not.”
This happens when:
The product is too heavy or pore-clogging
You’re reacting to an ingredient
Your barrier is compromised
There’s irritation or inflammation
Breakouts usually:
Appear in new areas you don’t normally break out
Feel more cystic or painful
Worsen the longer you use the product
Don’t improve after 4-6 weeks
It’s incompatibility.
The biggest mistake people make is that:
They quit too soon.
OR
They stick it out way too long.
Knowing the difference saves your skin from unnecessary trauma & saves you money from hopping between products.
Alcohol, Stress, and Lifestyle: Yes, They All Matter!
If you’re drinking somewhat frequently, stressed, not sleeping, or eating inflammatory foods (like ultra-processed snacks), your skin’s healing response slows down.
Free radicals, inflammation, and a weakened barrier can make post-acne hyperpigmentation worse and breakouts linger longer.
Your skin reflects not only your external environment, but also your internal environment. Take care of your gut and your skin will flourish ✨
So What Should You Do?
If you think you’re purging:
Slow down application (2-3x per week)
Focus on barrier repair
Hydrate hydrate hydrate - both inside and out. Drink lots of water to cleanse your system and apply Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and repair the skin
Give it 4-6 weeks
If you think you’re breaking out:
Stop the product
Simplify your routine
Repair the barrier
Consult your esthetician (hi ☺️)
Healthy Skin isn’t about using the Strongest Products - it’s about Using the Right Ones for Your Skin.
If you’re uncertain whether you’re purging or breaking out, send us a message on Instagram for a complimentary consultation!
Hey Bestie! Interested in learning more about other treatments?
Learn more:
Our Dew + Renew Facial: The Ultimate Microdermabrasion + Hydrofacial Glow-Up
The Hydro Glow Facial: The Ultimate Deep Cleanse + Hydration Boost for Radiant Skin
Book with your new favorite esthetician! 🖤 Serving the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Richardson, Plano, Garland, Frisco, Allen, McKinney, Addison, Carrollton, and surrounding areas.