Is Your Skin Breaking Out or Just Purging?

Read this before you take any extreme measures.

If you’ve introduced a new product into your skincare routine recently, a breakout is the last thing you want to see. Chances are you’ll write the product off immediately and stash it away, never to see your face again. But wait! Although it’s true that a new product might just be incompatible with your skin, your skin might actually be purging—and that’s actually a good thing.

So, how do you know if your skin is purging or breaking out? To help identify the situation of your skin.

What is skin purging?

Skin purging is a process by which the skin is subjected to certain treatments in order to remove excess oil and dirt, as well as dead skin cells. This process is typically done with the help of chemical exfoliates, such as alpha hydroxyl acids and retinoids, but can also be done with physical exfoliates. The purpose of this process is to improve the overall appearance of the skin, leading to a smoother and more radiant complexion.

What are breakouts?

Breakouts are a type of skin condition that is characterized by the appearance of red, inflamed spots or pimples on the skin. Breakouts are most commonly caused by hormonal changes, oily skin, and bacteria, and can be found on the face, chest, back, or other areas of the body.