If you have time, you can use hydroxy acids and retinol sequentially. After applying an AHA or BHA product, wait for 30 minutes to allow your skin's pH to return to normal, and then apply the retinol product.
Generally, you should wait at least 30 minutes between applying an AHA and using a moisturiser. Give your skin time to absorb the AHA and let it do its magic before layering on additional products. Using an AHA and moisturiser simultaneously will cancel their benefits (and vice versa).
Apply evenly across the face and neck using fingertips. Do not use on sensitive, peeling, or compromised skin. Avoid the eye contour and contact with eyes both during application and rinse off. Leave on for no more than 10 minutes.
It depends on the type of exfoliant you are using. Generally, you should leave a chemical exfoliant on your face for no more than 10 minutes before washing it off. Physical exfoliants, such as scrubs, should be used for no more than 2 minutes.
How long does purging skin last? It generally lasts around 4 weeks (an average skin cycle length) but it can last up to 8 weeks. If you're still breaking out more than usual after this period of time, consider what else you're using in your routine, as it may not be purging.
It is, of course, possible to over-use anything that works to resurface your skin, and the effects can be especially concerning. Using too many exfoliating acid-based products, or one product that is simply too potent, can damage the stratum corneum – the outermost layer of your skin, also known as the skin barrier.
Alpha hydroxy acids begin to work almost immediately when formulated in leave-on formats (toners, liquid exfoliants) to reveal brighter, glowy skin. It takes a bit longer, about 2-4 months, to visibly recognize AHA-related anti-aging benefits, like a decrease in appearance of fine lines and wrinkles (4).
You don't need to wait for your BHA or AHA to absorb or dry; you can apply any other product in your routine—moisturizer, serum, eye cream or sunscreen—immediately afterward.
The “black stuff” when you rub your skin is nothing but dead cells, dirt and surface grime. It comes off due to friction caused by rubbing your skin.
Since exfoliation clears dead skin cells and buildup, exfoliating too often, using a harsh exfoliator, or leaving it on too long can compromise your skin barrier.
Don't mix: AHAs and BHAs should not be used with retinol products as this can cause irritation. Additionally, these ingredients should not be mixed with vitamin C products as this can also irritate your skin.
The U.S. FDA has recommended exercising caution in relation to adverse reactions such as redness, swelling, burning, and pruritus due to use of AHA-containing products [44]. Similarly, UV-induced phototoxicity has been associated with AHA concentrations.
Do: Use it overnight. My AHAs work the night shift to smooth your skin: zero effort required. Apply my AHA lotion all over, slip into your PJs, and dream of me. Sleep tight and wake up to your best skin yet.
The main suspects of skin purging are AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids), BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) and PHAs (poly-hydroxy acids).
AHA and BHA acids are ingredients that have an exfoliating effect, so it is important that the skin is properly moisturized after using them to avoid irritation and dryness. It is recommended to use products containing hyaluronic acid, aloe or bisabolol, ceramides or squalane.
The sebum produced by the sebaceous glands can cause dead cells to stick together. These clumps of dead skin can lead to clogged pores and a buildup on the skin's surface. In addition, excess oil production can also prevent exfoliating acids from doing their job correctly.
If you squeeze sebaceous filaments out from your skin, a waxy, threadlike structure may pop out of your pore. If you squeeze blackheads out from your skin, the dark, waxy plug may pop out of your pore.
Allergic reactions, skin conditions, and vaginal infections can all cause dry, flaky skin. Close-fitting clothes and intimate cleaning products can irritate the skin, which can cause the same symptoms. The best treatment will depend on the cause of the issue.
The other liquid exfoliant is Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids (AHA's, Glycolic, Lactic). As AHA's increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, I'd suggest using this at night. If you use a AHA in the morning, always make sure to follow with a broad spectrum sunscreen.
Flaky skin can be made worse by not applying a moisturizing product after exfoliating. If you only remove the dead skin without protecting the new skin underneath, it can lead to rough skin and uneven texture. Some people even experience peeling skin because the texture is so dry and rough.
Retinol (leave to absorb for 10-20 minutes)
“It is important to leave a 10-20 minute wait time before applying the next product. 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.
In some people, alpha hydroxy acids can make the skin extra sensitive to sunlight. Be sure to use a sunscreen while using alpha hydroxy acid products. Alpha hydroxy acids can also cause mild skin irritation, redness, swelling, itching, and skin discoloration.
Skin purging is an informal term for a temporary increase in acne that some people observe when they begin using a new skin care product. Due to a lack of research on the topic, it is unclear if this is a common side effect or why it occurs.
Yes, AHA can also help lighten and brighten your skin. Exfoliation helps revive your skin so that it is glowing and radiant. When AHAs exfoliate your skin, you'll notice a brighter complexion and a more even skin tone. With regular use, AHAs will help dead skin cells break down—all while promoting new cell generation.