Acne Purging: Why the Right Skincare Products Might Make You Break Out First

If you've ever started a new skincare routine and suddenly found your skin breaking out more than usual, you’re not alone. This reaction, often mistaken for a "bad reaction," is sometimes actually a sign that your skin is beginning to renew and heal. It’s called acne purging and although it can feel discouraging, it can be a very normal (and even necessary) part of your journey to clearer skin.

At Dr Sharyn Rai Aesthetics, we're all about helping you understand your skin, not just treat it. So let's talk about the science behind purging, and how to know if it's a good sign or a red flag.

What Is Acne Purging?

Acne purging is a temporary increase in breakouts triggered by skincare products that speed up cell turnover, such as retinoids or chemical exfoliants. These active ingredients encourage your skin to shed dead cells faster, which helps unclog pores and reduce long-term breakouts.

But there’s a catch: this accelerated process can push blockages that were already forming beneath the skin to the surface all at once, leading to a sudden flare-up. This is purging.

What Causes It?

Purging is most commonly triggered by products that increase skin cell turnover, such as:

• Retinoids (e.g. retinol, tretinoin)

• AHAs and BHAs (like glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid)

• Benzoyl peroxide

• High-strength vitamin C serums

These actives get to work beneath the surface, speeding up how quickly your skin renews itself. The result? Impurities rise to the surface much faster than they normally would.

The Science Behind the Process

Let’s break it down:

1. Your skin goes through a natural renewal cycle every 28–40 days.

2. Acne-fighting ingredients can accelerate this cycle.

3. As a result, clogged pores (also known as microcomedones) that were hiding under the surface get pushed out quickly.

4. This may look like a breakout—but it's your skin “clearing the decks.”

This is why purging often occurs in areas where you usually break out—not in new or random zones.

How Long Does It Last?

Typically, purging lasts between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on your skin type and the product. If your breakouts persist beyond that, or start appearing in unusual places, it might not be purging, it could be an irritation or a reaction.

Purging vs. Breakouts: How to Tell the Difference

Still not sure which you're experiencing? That’s exactly where expert advice comes in.

What to Do If You’re Purging

Here’s how to support your skin through the purge:

• Ease in: Start with actives just 2–3 times a week, then build up slowly.

• Hydrate + Protect: Use gentle cleansers, barrier-supporting moisturisers, and daily SPF.

• Don’t panic: Stick with your routine unless symptoms worsen.

• Avoid introducing too many new products at once: This helps you identify what’s truly working.

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Need Help Navigating Your Skin Journey?

Every skin type is different, and knowing what your skin needs can be overwhelming—especially when you feel like you're doing everything right and still breaking out.

At Dr Sharyn Rai Aesthetics, we offer personalised skin consultations to guide you through these moments. Whether you’re starting a new product, unsure if you're purging, or just want expert advice tailored to your skin’s unique needs—we’re here to help.

✨ Book a consultation today and eliminate the guesswork from your skincare. Let’s get your skin on the right track, with confidence and clarity.

📍Available in London and Southampton📩