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Purging

In dermatology and skincare, skin purging refers to a transient phase during which the skin appears to worsen before improving, often after the introduction of an exfoliating active ingredient. This phenomenon is caused by an acceleration of cell turnover, which more rapidly brings to the surface the micro‑comedones already present beneath the skin. Unlike an allergic reaction or intolerance, purging is characterised by spots that appear in areas typically prone to acne.
Conseils peau qui purge
Safety
5 min of reading
How to take care of the skin during a purge?

Different from acne breakouts and allergies, skin purging occurs following the use of a new product rich in exfoliating agents. This phenomenon, which can last several weeks, can be uncomfortable. Here are our tips for taking care of the skin when it is going through a purging process.

Skin Purging: Does Niacinamide Cause Spots?
FAQ
3 min of reading
Skin Purging: Does Niacinamide Cause Spots?

Niacinamide is generally regarded as a gentle ingredient, well tolerated by all skin types. However, some people have reported the emergence of spots after using it. Continue reading to find out if niacinamide triggers purges.

Durée d'une purge de la peau.
Safety
4 min of reading
Skin detox: how long does it last?

Often mistaken for a skin rash, skin purging occurs after the use of certain active ingredients. Let's review everything you need to know about this phenomenon: origin, duration, solutions, prevention.

Purge de la peau ou éruption cutanée ?
Safety
3 min of reading
How can we determine if our skin is purging or if it is experiencing an acne breakout, an allergic reaction?

Have you started a new skincare routine and noticed the appearance of spots? This could be your skin purging, or you may be experiencing a rash in response to a treatment, or even an acne breakout. But how can you differentiate between these three situations and avoid confusion?

Ingrédients cosmétique induisant une purge cutanée.
Safety
6 min of reading
Cosmetic ingredients that can trigger a purge.

In certain circumstances, what we believe to be acne is not always acne: it could be a skin purge. This phenomenon is observed following the use of certain active ingredients contained in skincare products. Discover which ingredients are responsible for this skin reaction.

FAQ about purging

What are the main ingredients that can trigger a purging effect?

Retinoids, exfoliating acids (AHA, BHA and PHA) and benzoyl peroxide are the main agents responsible for a purge.

How long does a purge last?

A purge typically lasts between 4 and 8 weeks on average.

Does purging mean that a treatment is working?

Yes, purging indicates that the product is stimulating skin renewal and is evidence of its effectiveness.

How can the risk of purging be reduced?

The risk of purging can be reduced by gradually introducing exfoliating actives into one’s skincare routine, using them first every third evening, then every other evening, and so on.

Should you adjust your skincare routine during a purge?

During a purge, it is not recommended to introduce new exfoliating actives into your routine, and it is important to protect your skin well from the sun. Apart from this, there is no need to change your skincare routine.

Is purging mandatory?

No, not all skin goes through a purging phase when it first starts using exfoliating actives. This reaction is more common in acne-prone skin.

Where do the purge buttons appear?

Generally on the areas where you usually tend to develop blemishes.

Does purging only affect the face?

It may appear on any area where the responsible active ingredients are applied, such as the back or the décolleté.

Can purging leave marks?

Yes, like any imperfection, it can leave marks if it is handled.

Is skin purging related to acne?

It may be more visible on acne-prone skin, but it does not correspond to acne in the strict sense.

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