Not all breakouts are bad. Sometimes, they’re part of the process.

If you’ve ever started a new skincare product and noticed your skin breaking out a few days later, it’s easy to assume something’s gone wrong. But before you panic or toss the product aside, it’s worth asking:Is this purging — or something else entirely?

Let’s break it down.

What is skin purging?

Skin purging happens when a product accelerates your skin’s natural cell turnover. That’s a good thing — cell renewal is what keeps your skin smooth, clear, and glowing. But in the process, it can also bring underlying congestion to the surface faster than usual.

In short: those breakouts were already forming under your skin. The product didn’t cause them — it just sped up the process.

What kind of ingredients can cause purging?

Not every product will trigger this response. Purging is most commonly associated with ingredients that actively change how your skin behaves, such as:

+ Exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs)

+ Retinoids

+ Vitamin C

+ Hydration-boosting actives that stimulate renewal and barrier repair (like Totarol™, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide)

If your skin’s been dry, inflamed, or out of balance, even barrier-supportive formulas can trigger a mild purge as your skin recalibrates.

How do I know if it’s purging or a reaction?

Skin purging typically begins within 1 to 3 weeks of starting a new product and tends to show up in areas where you normally break out. It often appears as small bumps, clogged pores, or minor breakouts and usually clears within 4 to 6 weeks as your skin adjusts. In contrast, irritation or sensitivity tends to start immediately or after just a few uses. It may occur in new or unusual areas and is often accompanied by redness, stinging, itching, or a rash-like reaction. Unlike purging, irritation doesn’t improve over time — it usually persists or worsens the longer the product is used.If your skin is itchy, inflamed, or burning, stop use and consult a dermatologist. But if it’s simply congested or bumpy, you might just be in the purge window.

What should I do during a purge?

+ Be gentle – Don’t exfoliate aggressively or add new actives. Let the ones that are helping you purge do the heavy lifting and wait to add in new products or actives until the purging clears up.

+ Hydrate and protect – Focus on barrier-loving ingredients and avoid stripping the skin.

+ Stay consistent – If purging is mild, it’s usually best to ride it out.

+ Ask for help – Our team is always here to guide you.

Purging can be frustrating—but it’s also a sign that something is shifting. Your skin is accelerating its natural rhythm. It’s working through congestion. It’s adjusting. And with the right support, it will emerge clearer, smoother, and more balanced.

Your skin knows what it’s doing. We’re just here to support it.