Introduce the product slowly Rushing into using an active product such as a retinoid and being a little gung-ho will also make purging more likely. “We recommend slowly introducing a new product such as retinol into your routine to give your skin some time to adjust,” says Dr Woodward.
I haven't experienced any purging at all and I would recommend the 0.2% Retinol :) I had to consistently use it for at least over a month before I saw that my skin was clearing up alongside other Ordinary products.
Retinol is well known for worsening the condition of the skin before improving it. Most people who introduce retinol to their skin, experience severe breakouts, dryness, itchiness, and redness. The immediate side effects of retinol treatment can take the form of a surge in acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and rashes.
Experiencing an initial purge when starting out with retinoids is normal. Purging can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your skin. If you are still experiencing breakouts and irritation after this time, we recommend reaching out to your dermatology provider!
Hadley King, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, estimates that about 20 percent of people experience retinol purges. But fear not—it's not inevitable, and when it does happen, it's temporary.
In short, the retinol sandwiching technique is as follows:
Apply a layer of moisturiser to damp skin. Allow this to dry completely. Apply your retinol. After giving retinol time to absorb, finish your skincare routine with a second layer of moisturiser.
Purging usually happens in the first couple of weeks of starting retinol. If you've seen nothing in the first month, you might be in the clear!
You will be able to tell that Retinol is working if you start to see improvements in the texture and general appearance of your skin. Some people might be able to spot changes in their skin quite quickly, while others will have to be more patient.
The retinol uglies can last anywhere from 4–8 weeks. The exact length of a retinoid purge depends very much on your skin type and sensitivity. The amount and strength of your retinoid product can also play a part. Some people experience a purge flare-up for only a few days, and others don't get it at all.
If you're primarily using retinol for anti-aging purposes, using it every other night or a few times a week may suffice. However, if you're battling acne, your dermatologist may recommend daily usage or a higher concentration.
If the skin purging stage is really troublesome, it can be helpful to decrease the frequency of your actives by alternating days of use. Stick with it - in time, things will likely improve. When the frequency of new spots starts to reduce, increase the frequency of your actives again.
Retinol can potentially cause dryness or irritation, especially when starting to use it or if you have dry or sensitive skin. Moisturizing helps replenish the skin's hydration and minimize any potential dryness or flakiness associated with retinol use.
Retinol can cause a side effect called a retinol burn. Retinol burns can cause skin redness, irritation, and flaking. But it's not an allergy. You should stop using retinol if you develop a retinol burn.
Secondly, use a good SPF, ideally factor 50, every day when using retinol as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun. It's also worth noting that many people who start using retinol can find they have more blemishes come up at the beginning of use, which is often referred to as skin purging.
Retinol (leave to absorb for 10-20 minutes)
Retinols are powerful antioxidants and it is important to allow it to fully absorb if you want to avoid your skin becoming sensitive,” says Dr Liakas. There is a caveat to this rule, however, so always check instructions.
If you want to target wrinkles, uneven texture, or acne, retinol is your best bet. If you're looking for brighter skin and protection from environmental damage, vitamin C is the way to go.
It can take time for your skin to get used to a retinoid. Start by applying it once or twice a week, and always at night. As your skin adjusts, you can work your way up to using it nightly. If your skin gets red, dry, or flaky, you may be moving too fast.
“Skin purging,” or the “retinol uglies” as it's also known, are terms used to describe an initial flare of sensitive skin and acne breakouts at the start of a retinoid treatment. Skin purging is common, but doesn't necessarily happen to everyone. In fact some people don't experience it at all.
The skin goes red, inflamed, and peeling because retinol has chemically burned away the upper layer of skin, the new exposed skin has not had enough time to build up its natural protection film to UV light and pollutants that a good UV moisturising oil can help with and reduce the exposure to skin cancer risk, ...
Retinol can assist in reducing further breakouts, as its formula helps to renew the skin cell cycle and improve skin barrier health. In terms of using retinol on popped pimples, the strength and efficacy of this ingredient can assist with marks.
You'll want to use clean, dry fingertips for application. We recommend starting at your chin and working your way up to your face. Use your fingertips to apply the product to your skin using gentle, outward, upward strokes. Never rub the skin, as this can lead to increased irritation.