what is purging skin

Skin purging is a temporary skin reaction to specific ingredients that cause breakouts, dryness, flaking, and peeling. It typically occurs when trying a new skin care product or certain facial treatments. During the purging process, some people will experience small clusters of specific types of acne such as “pustular breakouts, whiteheads, or blackheads” . The duration of skin purging will vary from person to person, but generally, it lasts 4–6 weeks. After 6 weeks, the skin may begin to respond to the ingredients, and a person should be able to see improvement. The initial symptoms will subside, and the person will notice smoother, brighter skin and a more even skin tone. Skin purging may look different from person to person and will depend on an individual’s complexion. Generally, dead skin cells come to the surface, causing dry, peeling skin. The skin may also adjust to the increased skin cell turnover rate and may become red and irritated. A range of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules may appear. Red papules and hard bumps may come in clusters, making the skin’s texture feel rough to the touch.