Understanding Skin Purging vs. Regular Breakouts

Introduction

• Lecturer: Dr. Mamina
• Topic: Skin purging vs. regular breakouts
• Frustration: Experiencing increased breakouts after starting a new skincare product

What is Skin Purging?

• Definition: Increase in breakouts after introducing a new active ingredient that speeds up skin cell turnover
• Duration: Typically 2-6 weeks, can be longer (up to or more than 8 weeks)
• Analogy: Cleaning out clogged pipes in your skin (credit to Dr. Josh Zeer)

Products that Can Cause Skin Purging

• **Common Causes: **
  • Retinoids (both over-the-counter and prescription)
  • Exfoliants (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
  • Benzoyl Peroxide
• **Less Common Causes: **
  • Oral steroids

Products Not Causing Skin Purging

• Examples:
  • Vitamin C
  • Peptides
  • Growth factors
• Exception: Vitamin C with Vitamin E may trigger breakouts in acne-prone individuals

Purging vs. Regular Breakouts

• **Key Factors to Consider: **
  • Duration: Purging lasts 2-6 weeks, not exceeding 2 months
  • Appearance: Smaller lesions or bumps
  • Location: Occurs primarily where the new product is applied

Purging vs. Allergic or Irritating Reactions

• Allergic Reactions: Small itchy bumps, often with a rashy appearance
• Irritating Reactions: Similar small bumps but widespread

Managing Skin During Purging

• Additional Acne-Fighting Ingredients:
  • Avoid exfoliating properties
  • Examples: Azelaic Acid, Dapsone, Sulfur
  • Over-the-counter options: Azelaic Acid and Sulfur
• Pimple Patches: For larger bumps
• Hydration: Maintain Skin Barrier
• Sun Protection: Daily sunscreen use

Consulting Dermatologists

• Importance: Guidance in minimizing effects of purging and retinization

Conclusion

• Understand the Difference: Helps in navigating skincare effectively
• Free Gift: Top five skincare favorites from Dr. Mamina
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