15/07/2025
When your clients start active ingredients like retinol, AHAs, or BHAs — don’t just hand them the product.
Take a moment to explain why their skin might freak out a little first (and why that’s actually good science at work).
The Simple Explanation:
“Skin purging happens when active ingredients speed up your skin’s natural cell turnover. This means any congestion sitting below the surface comes up faster — showing as breakouts before your skin clears.”
The Science Bit:
Ingredients like retinoids, exfoliating acids, Vitamin C, and benzoyl peroxide work by boosting skin cell renewal.
As dead skin cells shed quicker, clogged pores are pushed to the surface.
This detox process is what we call purging — it’s not the same as a random breakout.
🔍 What Clients Should Know:
Purging usually happens in areas they normally break out (chin, forehead).
It can look like whiteheads, blackheads, small pimples, and dry or flaky patches.
This phase typically lasts 4 to 6 weeks — then skin clears and strengthens.
Using calming, hydrating, non-comedogenic products during this time is essential.
Picking will slow healing — hands off!
🚩 When to Worry:
If clients experience swelling, pain, or worsening skin after several weeks — it’s likely a reaction, not purging. Always encourage them to reach out for review.
✨ Why This Matters:
Educating clients builds confidence and helps prevent ‘product panic’. When they understand the science behind what’s happening, they’re more likely to trust the process and stick with their treatment plan — bringing better long-term results.
So next time you prescribe actives? Educate first. It’s the secret to turning purging panic into skin success.
