Understanding Why Acne Purging Is Not a Normal Skin Reaction

If you’ve ever started a new skincare product and suddenly broken out, chances are you’ve been told: “Don’t worry, it’s just your skin purging — it’ll get better if you push through.”

It’s a comforting idea, but here’s the truth: “skin purging” isn’t a recognised medical term. In fact, in dermatology, what many people call purging is more accurately described as an acne flare, an acneiform eruption, or even an irritant reaction. And the advice to “sit it out” can sometimes do more harm than good.

What is Acne Purging?

Acne purging refers to the experience of an increase in acne symptoms after starting a new skincare product, especially those with active ingredients such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These ingredients can speed up skin cell turnover, theoretically pushing existing impurities to the surface.

But it is important to distinguish between purging and a regular breakout. While purging may lead to more acne lesions, it is not the same as a standard skin reaction to new products. It does not mean that it is a healthy or acceptable reaction.

In medical literature, dermatologists describe acneiform eruptions as sudden, acne-like breakouts that can include papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Unlike true acne, these eruptions often lack blackheads or whiteheads and can appear anywhere on the body, not just in oily zones.

Causes include:

• Certain medications (like corticosteroids, antibiotics, or cancer therapies).

• Hormonal or metabolic changes.

• Skincare irritation from harsh or unsuitable products.

• Comedogenic ingredients that block pores.

So, when your skin flares after introducing a new product, it’s not your skin “cleansing itself”; it’s your skin reacting.

The Science Behind Skin Reactions

When you add a new product to your skincare routine, your skin might react differently than expected. The skin barrier is delicate. New ingredients can cause irritation, redness, or inflammation—a sign that your skin is not responding well, rather than purging.

Purging typically presents as small, superficial pimples, whereas a normal breakout may involve deeper, cystic acne. This distinction is crucial for effectively managing your skincare routine and ensuring that you nurture your skin, rather than harming it.

Why the “Just Push Through” Myth Is Harmful

Beauty marketing often encourages people to endure weeks of irritation, redness, or breakouts with the promise of glowing skin at the end. But in reality, if a product is causing inflammation, barrier disruption, or worsening acne, waiting it out may lead to:

• Increased sensitivity and irritation

• Post-inflammatory pigmentation

• Scarring

• Emotional stress and loss of confidence

At La Pelle, we believe in listening to your skin, not ignoring it!

The Retinoid Exception

The one place where short-term breakouts may occur is with prescription retinoids. Dermatologists sometimes prepare patients for a possible flare when beginning treatment. Even then, the process is carefully monitored and supported with barrier-repairing products.

This is very different from the blanket statement “all purging is normal.”

Why Acne Purging Is Not Normal

1. Skin Health Indicators: Healthy skin shouldn’t see a major increase in breakouts when starting a new product. A negative reaction could suggest that the product is not suitable for your skin type, or you may be experiencing an allergic response.

   
   

2. Duration of Symptoms: Many people experience what they term purging for a few weeks. However, if your breakouts persist beyond that, it is likely not a result of purging but rather an indication of irritation or a harmful reaction. For example, if you notice continuous breakouts after four weeks, it is a signal to reassess your products.

   
   

3. Underlying Conditions: Ongoing acne can signal underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or other skin problems. If breakouts increase significantly, consult a dermal clinician or dermatologist rather than attributing them to purging.

   
   

Recognizing the Signs of Irritation

Identifying irritation signs can help clarify if your skin is purging or negatively reacting to a product. Here are common indicators of irritation:

• Redness and Inflammation: If your skin looks red and swollen, it may indicate irritation instead of purging.

  
  

• Dryness and Flakiness: Overly dry or flaky skin can mean that a product is harsh on your skin.

  
  

• Pain or Discomfort: If you're feeling pain or discomfort in addition to breakouts, this usually points to a problem.

  
  

What to Do If You Experience Breakouts

Should you find yourself breaking out after introducing a new product, consider the following steps:

1. Stop Using the Product: If you think a product is causing irritation, stop using it right away.

   
   

2. Consult a Dermatologist: Skin professionals can help pinpoint the cause of your breakouts and offer tailored recommendations.

   
   

3. Patch Test New Products: Before fully integrating a product into your regimen, test it on a small skin area to monitor your body’s reaction. This preventative measure can save you from unwanted flare-ups.

   
   

The La Pelle Approach

At La Pelle, we don’t believe in telling clients to “just sit through it.” Instead, we:

• Assess the cause of any new breakout or reaction

• Adjust routines to support the skin barrier, not break it down

• Recommend pregnancy-safe, fragrance-free formulas where needed

• Educate clients so they feel empowered, not dismissed

Because skincare should heal, protect, and restore, not create distress.

Why La Pelle Serum & Balm Are the Best Choice During a Flare

When your skin reacts — whether from a harsh product, over-exfoliation, or a treatment-induced flare — it doesn’t need to “purge.” It needs repair, comfort, and protection.

• La Pelle Serum delivers concentrated hydration with barrier-strengthening actives. It calms inflammation while supporting the skin’s natural repair processes, making it ideal for fragile or sensitised skin.

• La Pelle Balm provides a soothing, protective layer to lock in moisture and shield the skin from further irritation. Its fragrance-free, pregnancy-safe formula helps ease discomfort while reducing the risk of secondary irritation or infection.

Together, our serum and balm form a restorative duo, providing skin with the calm, healing environment it needs to recover from reactions without being told to “push through.”

Hydrating Care Essentials Skin Kit

A$107.99

Buy Now

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. If you are experiencing persistent or worsening skin issues, please seek assessment from a dermatologist, dermal clinician, or medical practitioner.otect, and restore — not create distress.