What is Purging?

Purging is a temporary increase in breakouts triggered by actives that accelerate skin cell turnover (retinoids, AHAs, BHAs). Pre-existing microcomedones come to the surface faster than they normally would, appearing as breakouts over 4–8 weeks. Distinct from allergic reactions (which cause new breakouts in areas that don't normally break out). Purging happens in areas you typically get acne; irritation appears in new areas. Purging resolves as skin cycles through.