“Because these products speed up cell turnover, they can make pre-existing microcomedones (tiny, unseen blemishes) surface more quickly,” Dr. Thiede said. Breakouts can happen anywhere on the skin, regardless of whether it's an area you are prone to getting acne or not.
If you've recently introduced new skincare products only to experience an increase in blemishes, don't panic. While a breakout can be a sign a product is unsuitable, in many cases a fresh crop of blackheads or bumps may indicate your skin is purging – and that smoother, clearer skin could be waiting around the corner.
Some makeup, along with many skin and hair care products, contain oil or other ingredients that can cause acne breakouts. If you continue to use them, you may continue to see blemishes.
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.
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.
Purging is temporary, and it won't last forever – your skin needs to adjust to the new active ingredients in your regime. Keeping consistent will help you through this phase, as your skin will gradually adapt. A simple, stripped back skincare routine will also help your skin to acclimatise.
Stress acne typically presents as an array of small, red or pink pimples that can be scattered across various areas of the face. These facial acne pimples often take the form of whiteheads or blackheads and can progress into pustules, which are red, pus-filled bumps, or papules, which are small, raised bumps.
If you've already gone all in with your new routine and noticed an increase in breakouts, your first reaction may be to stop altogether. However, the best thing you can do for your skin during this process is to continue your new routine and avoid introducing new products, giving your skin time to adjust.
Drying out a pimple can be a safer course of action to explore, as when done correctly, it allows the pimple to dry out instead of spreading its pus to other pores. To dry out pimples safely, it's best to stick with over-the-counter products that contain acne-fighting ingredients.
Your skin might burn, sting, itch, or get red right where you used the product. You might get blisters and have oozing, especially if you scratch. The other kind of reaction actually involves your immune system.
Many products that contain ingredients like shea butter, silicones, and oil-based ingredients can clog your pores and cause acne. You're better off choosing products that are labelled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they will not clog pores.
Regular use of repairing serums helps control acne as well as prevent future breakouts. Skipping your skincare routine can potentially trigger or worsen acne outbreaks.
Isotretinoin: This is a potent medicine that attacks all four causes of acne—bacteria, clogged pores, excess oil, and inflammation (redness and swelling). About 85% of patients see permanent clearing after one course of isotretinoin.
Redness, itching, or breakouts shortly after applying a product are clear signs your skin doesn't like the product you are using.
Red to purple or darker than your natural skin tone. Swollen, hive-like or elevated from the skin surrounding it. Bumpy with a small cluster of pimples or blisters. Oozing fluid or pus.
As an occlusive, petroleum jelly improves the skin barrier function, and minimizes the skin's water loss, preventing it from being dry and dehydrated. It also serves as a protective barrier, which can help keep out any allergens that can irritate the skin.