This varies, but you can expect the purge to last anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months. If you're seeing results for longer than 3 months, you might want to consult your GP or dermatologist. But first, be sure your skin concerns are definitely related to retinol…
How long does purging usually last? Purging usually lasts between two to four weeks, according to Dr Phillips. “Efficacy is partly determined by the formulation and strength of the product; however, on average, most people will start to see a difference after a month,” he says.
The immediate side effects of retinol treatment can take the form of a surge in acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and rashes. This is termed retinol purging. It lasts for about 2-6 weeks depending on the quality of the skin, following which the positive effects ramp up.
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.
For those of us who do suffer from purging, it can look like: breaking out in pustules (pimples), the appearance of flaky, peeling skin, irritation and dry patches. Getting these symptoms can be demotivating, especially if you're already feeling unconfident about your skin.
Retinol purging might sound scary, but the effects of high-quality retinol products are absolutely worth it for those willing to be patient. Remember—the short-lived discomfort is a positive indication that your skin is on its way to achieving a more radiant and rejuvenated appearance!
For some people, stopping retinol abruptly may not lead to serious changes, but it's always best to consult a dermatology provider to determine the most suitable approach based on your specific circumstances. However, there is a chance your more obvious signs of aging may return after discontinuing retinol.
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.
We always recommend following product directions. However, for strong actives like retinoids or direct acids, you may wish to start with 2-3x week application and gradually increase frequency as tolerated. Please note for Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, we recommend using a maximum of 2-3 times a week.
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.
In other words, when you use certain products, your skin is likely to look worse before it looks better. A purge can look like blackheads and whiteheads, and it's likely to appear in the places where you normally break out.
This is because retinoids increase the turnover of skin cells. This normally lasts 7-21 days. Alternatively, during the Tretinoin Purge, your skin might feel too dehydrated, and start over-producing oil. This is also very common and completely normal.
Retinol accelerates the skin's cell turnover, and it can bring underlying acne to the surface more rapidly than it would naturally. You may notice an initial increase in acne, inflammation or dryness a.k.a. purging when you start using Retinol due to this reason.
Should you stop retinol in summer? As mentioned above, you do not need to stop using vitamin A in the summer. As long as you're applying a sunscreen of at least 30+ the following morning after using vitamin A, you're ensuring that your skin stays protected against the sun's ageing and burning rays.
Do you have to use retinol forever once you start? If you are using it correctly, where you are balancing getting an effect with minimizing irritation and dryness, then there is really no reason to stop (with the exception of during pregnancy).
Skin purging typically lasts anywhere between four to six weeks which is roughly in line with how long it takes for your skin cells to naturally turnover. During this phase, it might seem like your skin is getting worse but it should settle down and improve after you've passed this period.
And to be honest, not everyone is going to experience the retinol uglies phase. In fact, some people's retinization phase is pretty mild. This all depends on your skin type, the dose of retinoid you're using, and the frequency with which you use it.
However, when used with retinol, the effect can be too harsh on the skin, and can cause burns or scarring. If you've gone overboard, applying a hydrocortisone cream over the area can help.
In the long run, skin purging helps us shed dead skin cells more effectively which reduces pore-clogging build-up and breakouts, and it does settle down after a few weeks. But you do have to buckle in and ride out a few weeks of discomfort to see the best results.
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.