How to Tell If Your Skin Is Purging or Breaking Out?

Noticing spots and pimples on your face might make you think you're having a skin breakout, but not all spots are the same. They can pop up unexpectedly and have different reasons behind them. Figuring out why a blemish showed up and what to do can be confusing.

In this article, we'll talk about two things: skin purging and breakouts. We'll help you understand what's happening to your skin.

What is Skin Purging?

Skin purging can happen when you start using a new skincare product. It brings all the yucky stuff like dead skin cells, bacteria, dirt, and oil from under your skin to the surface before getting rid of them. This can cause breakouts, which is the purging. It's like your skin's reaction to certain ingredients that speed up how quickly your skin cells renew. The goal is to show the newer, fresher skin cells underneath by pushing out the older stuff first. This purging process can lead to pimples and dry, flaky skin.

Why Does Skin Purging Happen?

Many skincare products can trigger skin purging. Stuff like alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid in our exfoliators can do it. These things help peel away the deeper layers of your skin and clear out the oil and dirt. Other products with names like benzoyl peroxide, retinol, vitamin C, and others can also cause purging. These ingredients help your skin make new cells.

What to Do During Skin Purging?

When your skin is going through purging, it's sensitive and delicate. You can't stop it, so you need to be patient until it gets better. But there are things you can do:

Go Slow: Start using new products with these active ingredients little by little. Test them on a small spot before using a lot. Then you can use them a couple of times a week and increase it as your skin gets used to them.

Hands Off: Don't pop pimples or touch your face too much.

Stay Clean: Keep your pillowcases and sheets clean.

Gentle Stuff: Avoid using harsh soaps, scrubs, or chemicals that could irritate your skin.

Sun Protection: If you go out in the sun, use sunscreen that isn't greasy to protect your skin.

Moisturize: Don't use things that make your skin even drier.

Difference Between Skin Purging and Breakouts:

When you try new products, it's important to know if your skin is purging or having a regular breakout. Here's how you can tell:

Time: Purging happens faster than regular breakouts. If you're using a product known for purging and you're breaking out for more than four to six weeks, that product might not be right for you.

Where: If you're getting pimples in new places, it's probably a regular breakout.

Ingredients: Think about what's in the products you're using. Purging is often caused by exfoliating stuff. If your skin breaks out after using things like oils or sunscreen, it's likely a regular breakout.

If you're ever confused and asking, "Why do I have breakouts?" – remember that breakouts happen when your skin's pores get clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin. To avoid this, pick products that control oil and learn how to choose the right face serum.

You can find good skincare products at Pal's Skin Lab. Whether you need a serum or products for uneven skin, we have got you covered. Don't settle for less when it comes to your skin!