Am I purging or breaking out?
Purging vs. Breakouts
Clearer skin is something many people crave, and the promise of fewer blemishes can make starting a new skincare routine seem exciting. Finally, it feels like you’re on your way to getting the clearer, fresher skin of your dreams. If your skin suddenly seems to get worse, it can be frustrating and even upsetting. Are the new products causing you to break out? This anxiety can cause you to wonder if you should stop your new routine and go back to the products and skincare plan you were using before.
The good news is that this may not be a breakout. It could be something called purging. Purging is where your skin seems to get worse before it gets better. It can look quite similar to a breakout, but it’s actually very different.
Difference between skin purging and breakouts
It's likely skin purging if the new blemishes appeared shortly after introducing a new skincare product and are in areas where you typically experience breakouts. If the blemishes are more severe, widespread, or persist longer than a few weeks, it might be a breakout. Skin purging often involves whiteheads and blackheads, while breakouts can include various types of blemishes.
Ingredients that often cause purging include:
• Retinoids (like retinol, or vitamin A)
• Acids (including AHAs, BHAs, and salicylic acid)
• Benzoyl peroxide
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Skin Purging
Timing:
Purging typically occurs shortly after introducing a new product, especially those that increase cell turnover (like retinoids or exfoliants).
Location:
Purging is usually confined to areas where you already experience breakouts or have clogged pores.
Appearance:
Blemishes during purging tend to be whiteheads and blackheads.
Duration:
Purging is temporary and should resolve within a few weeks as your skin adjusts to the new product.
- Breakouts
Timing:
Breakouts can occur at any time, not just after introducing a new product.
Location:
Breakouts can appear in new areas of your face, not just where you normally get them.
Appearance:
Breakouts can include a wider variety of blemishes, like whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, and even cysts.
Duration:
Breakouts can persist for longer periods and may require additional treatment to resolve.
In short: If you've recently started a new skincare product and are experiencing blemishes in your usual breakout areas, it's likely purging. If the blemishes are severe, widespread, or persist for a long time, it's more likely a breakout. If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice.
