What not to do while skin is purging?

Author: Michaela Nader  |  Last update: Saturday, January 10, 2026

“It is important not to be aggressive when you see purging, and understand it can be part and parcel of getting the best results for your skin. When it occurs treat the skin gently – don't try and pick or exfoliate away the papules because that could actually make things worse.

What to do during the purging stage?

Stick to a gentle and basic skin care routine to avoid further inflammation; a gentle cleanser, a soothing hydrating moisturiser, and sunscreen during the day. Don't stop using the product that has triggered the purge, but do limit its use.

Can I wear makeup while my skin is purging?

Wearing makeup during a skin purge can be a personal choice and depends on a few factors: Skin Sensitivity: If your skin is particularly sensitive during a purge, it might be best to avoid makeup, as it can irritate the skin further.

How long does your skin purge before it clears up?

Skin purging is said to last 4-6 weeks, however, everyone's skin is different (2). This is only temporary and will eventually subside as your skin adjusts to the new treatment. In the meantime, it is important to cleanse gently and avoid picking at your skin, as this can cause further irritation.

Should I continue if my skin is purging?

“[Skin purging is] a positive sign that your skin is adjusting to the treatment and purging built-up impurities,” Dr. Yamauchi said. However, if your skin reaction doesn't go away or gets worse, it's best to stop using the new product.

ARE YOU PURGING OR BREAKING OUT?? || The Difference between them

Should I stop using salicylic acid when purging?

Dr. Beth McLellan recommends sticking with a product that is known to cause purging but not breakouts, such as a leave-on exfoliant that contains 1–2% salicylic acid. Over time, the blackheads and bumps should improve. If they don't you may need to add prescription or over-the-counter acne products to your regimen (6).

How long does the purge last?

The films present a seemingly normal, crime-free America in the near future. However, the country is a dystopia which observes an annual event known as "the Purge", in which all crime, including murder, is legal for a 12-hour period.

Why am I getting more pimples after using salicylic acid?

1 Known as "skin purging," worsening acne is a short-term reaction to ingredients that speed up cell turnover. Salicylic acid helps your body quickly get rid of dead skin cells. As a result, those dead skin cells, dirt, and oils appear on the surface of your skin, which clogs your pores and causes acne.

How many days should I rest my face before using a new product?

The right way is to change one product at a time. If you are changing your cleanser this week, change the moisturizer in a gap of 7-8 days. Similarly, if you are introducing an active ingredient, give it a week to settle on your skin.

Should I stop using niacinamide if I break out?

Niacinamide skincare products can sometimes cause breakouts in people who are acne-prone. If you start to experience more breakouts while using niacinamide products, discontinue use immediately.

Does moisturizing help purging?

While purging, a moisturizer with gentle, soothing ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid is the ideal sidekick.

Why is my skin glowing all of a sudden?

If you've ever wondered, "Why is my skin glowing all of a sudden?" the answer lies in a combination of internal and external factors that contribute to skin health. From hydration and nutrition to skincare routines and lifestyle choices, every element plays a role in achieving that radiant glow.

How can cell phones affect acne prone skin?

All that bacteria can make its way from your phone to your skin- usually your hands or face. It can be transferred from person to person on your phone. If you get unexplained breakouts where your phone touches your face, a dirty cell phone could be to part of the cause.

Should you pop purging pimples?

When the skin begins to purge and get rid of excess oil and dead skin cells, it's preparing to clear what isn't needed out of the body. While it goes through this process, acne and breakouts improve over time. Avoid touching, picking, or popping pimples.

How do you survive purge night?

so you'd better have a good plan, with multiple contingencies, to keep you alive. Your plan should include a place to shelter, and how to get there in case you are running late on purge night and get caught out in the open. determined Purgers, but finding alternative, more secure shelter is probably your best bet.

When does skin purging stop?

For others who are more sensitive, it may continue until they stop using the product. In the case of acne treatments, it can take up to 2 to 3 months for a product to clear spots, but people often see improvements after 6 weeks.

What is double cleansing?

“Double cleansing means cleansing your face twice, first with an oil-based product and then followed by a water-based cleanser,” explains Dr. Wu. The first step of using an oil-based cleanser is helpful when it comes to removing waterproof makeup and sunscreen.

How many days after a facial does your skin look the best?

Stage 2: 48-72 Hours After the Facial (2-3 days) The benefits of a facial don't stop once you leave the treatment room. In fact, you'll continue to see improvements in your skin for up to 72 hours after the treatment. This is because facials boost hydration and circulation, leading to improved skin texture and tone.

Is purging good for your skin?

While nobody likes to see it, purging is actually a really good sign. It means the medicine (oral or topical) is working, and your skin is cycling out debris and bacteria that have been causing your acne. “Topical retinoids enhance cell turnover and act like pipe cleaners for your pores.

How long does salicylic acid take to stop purging?

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.

Why am I still breaking out with a good skincare routine?

Even with a good skincare routine, breakouts can still happen if the routine isn't matched to your skin's specific needs. Your skin might benefit from tweaking the products you use, possibly changing ingredients or dosages in your acne treatments.

What are the Purge rules?

The only rules during The Purge are that "Level 10" government officials must remain unharmed and usage of weaponry above "Class 4" is forbidden. The Purge is designed to act as a catharsis for the American people, so that they may vent all negative emotions however they desire.

Can I use pimple patches while purging?

While it might be tempting to pop any whiteheads or remove blackheads that appear, it's best to avoid picking any blemishes that appear during a purge (as your skin is vulnerable to damage during this time). Instead, you can target the areas where your skin is purging with Software's AHA/BHA Pimple Patches.

What do purging pimples look like?

Appearance. Acne purging and breakouts can look similar at first glance, with increased red bumps and pimples. However, purging tends to cause uniform congestion, affecting the entire area where you applied the new treatment. Breakouts often appear more sporadic in your usual problem spots.

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