We all want healthy, radiant skin, which is why we try different skincare regimens. But what happens when your skin starts breaking out after using a new product? Before you start freaking out, you might want to familiarize yourself with the phenomenon called "skin purging." In this blog post, we'll dive deep into what skin purging is, what causes it, how long it lasts, what it looks like, the differences between skin purging and acne breakouts, and why it's essential to work with an Esthetician on getting a good facial and skincare regimen.

What is skin purging?

Skin purging, also called "purging period," is a process whereby your skin breaks out after using a new skincare regimen. Simply put, it's your skin's way of getting rid of all the impurities that were already under the surface. Skin purging is common whenever you introduce new products into your regimen, such as exfoliators, retinoids, or anything else that accelerates cell turnover. So, if you start using new skincare and notice your complexion looks worse before it gets better, it's likely purging.

What causes skin purging?

As we mentioned earlier, skin purging mostly results from using new skincare products that accelerate cell turnover. During this process, your skin cells shed more rapidly, leading to congestion in your pores. However, this is only temporary, and after a few weeks, your skin should start to clear up on its own. It's worth noting that while it's easy to confuse skin purging with an acne breakout, it's vital to understand that they're not the same. Acne breakouts typically occur when your skin over-produces sebum and clogs pores, leading to inflammation.

How long does skin purging last?

It depends on the person and the skincare regimen they're using. Generally, skin purging can last for anywhere from two to six weeks. During this time, you may notice an increase in pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads, and they'll often appear in areas where you usually break out. It's essential to be patient during this time, as your skin needs time to purge the impurities before it can start healing.

What does skin purging look like?

Skin purging may resemble a mild breakout, with small whiteheads and blackheads appearing on your skin. Generally, pimples from skin purging tend to be small and usually go away within a few days. If the breakout persists for more than six weeks, then it's probably acne and not skin purging.

Why is it crucial to work with an Esthetician on getting on a good facial and skincare regimen?

Working with an Esthetician can be a game-changer for your skincare routine. A good Esthetician can help you determine if you're purging or breaking out, what kind of products work well for your skin type, and what ingredients you should avoid. They can also help you adjust your skincare regimen as needed to avoid further irritation. An Esthetician can also provide you with a professional facial, which can help speed up the healing process.

Skin purging can be scary, but remember, it's a normal process that can help you achieve beautiful, healthy skin in the long run. By understanding what purging is, what causes it, what it looks like, and how long it can last, you can help your skin through the process more efficiently. And don't forget to work with an Esthetician to develop a good skincare regimen that will help you get the best results. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to clearer, healthier, and more radiant-looking skin.

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