Whats the difference between Purging vs breakouts vs irritation?Updated a year ago
We hate to dash your hopes, but unfortunately, there’s no easy way to visually distinguish between a skin purge or breaking. The other complicating factor is that often, it’s temporary irritation that’s responsible for your breakouts.
So here’s what to consider:
- What’s the timeline? According to foundational retinoic acid research, purging usually starts within the first few weeks of starting powerful new skincare treatments and should resolve itself within a few months.
- Breakouts caused by irritation will last longer but will resolve themselves if your skin gets used to the product. We notice this more often with very intense prescription products, as opposed to gentler over-the-counter or cosmetic options like retinal.
- A product that’s comedogenic for you (i.e., clogs your pores) will lead to a more unusual breakout. You may notice acne in areas where your skin is usually clear, and the acne will not resolve itself on any timeline, even if your skin is otherwise not too irritated.