Is Your Skin Retinoid Purging? Here's What to Know

Is Your Skin Retinoid Purging? Here's What to Know

Introduction

Retinoids are great for your skin, but they're not without their risks. Retinoid purging is a phenomenon that occurs when you use retinoids and start to notice more breakouts or acne than usual. It's normal for your skin to purge at first, but if this continues for weeks or months on end then something may be wrong--and it might not be just your face!

What is retinoid purging?

What is retinoid purging?

Retinoids are a type of chemical that can be found in prescription skin care products and over-the-counter creams. They help to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation (dark spots). However, if you’re using a retinol product for longer than recommended or if your skin isn't reacting well to it at all—that's when you might experience retinoid purging. This can cause redness, dryness and peeling on your face. It's also common for people who were previously sensitive to this process but have now developed tolerance issues over time due to prolonged use of topical acne medications such as Accutane or Retin A which contain strong forms of vitamin A acid derivatives like tretinoin."

How to know if your skin is purging.

how to know if your skin is purging.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.

The most common causes of retinoid purging.

Overactive sebaceous glands: This is the most common cause of retinoid purging. The skin cells that produce sebum, a natural oil that helps protect your skin from bacteria, may be overproducing and result in congestion. This can be caused by hormones or stress.

Congested pores: When pores become clogged with dead cells and debris, they can become inflamed or even infected (pores are generally smaller than a pencil eraser). This can lead to more breakouts and irritation when using a retinoid product on top of it—which will only worsen the condition!

Prevention of retinoid purging.

If you are using a retinoid and are experiencing purging, it is important to reduce the amount of time you use the medication. For example, if your doctor prescribes an acne treatment with 8 percent isotretinoin (a generic form of Roaccutane), try using just 2 percent for 6 months or so before switching back.

If you have been using another type of acne medication as well as a retinoid for several months without any improvement in your skin's appearance or condition, then it may be time to discontinue using both together until your skin recovers from its purging episode. You can also try combining other medications with BHAs—for example: benzoyl peroxide with beta-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid ($200)

Signs you're experiencing retinoid purging.

Redness and irritation. If your skin experiences redness and irritation, you may be experiencing retinoid purging. This can be mild to severe and can last for a few days or weeks depending on the severity of the condition.

Severe acne breakouts that are persistent over time (more than two weeks), even after starting to use a retinoid product properly

Dryness in general: Your face may look flaky or taut; itchy or scratchy feeling; rough texture to touch; small bumps on surface of skin

If you're experiencing a lot of acne or breakouts while using a retinoid, you may be experiencing the skin's natural detox process.

If you're experiencing a lot of acne or breakouts while using a retinoid, you may be experiencing the skin's natural detox process. The symptoms of purging can include:

Redness and irritation around your eyes or on the sides of your nose

Skin that feels tight and flaky after use (especially if it's been long-term)

If you experience any of these signs, consider switching to an alternative product until your skin settles down again.

Conclusion

Retinoids are powerful anti-aging products that work to reduce fine lines, wrinkles and skin discoloration. However, if you're experiencing a lot of acne or breakouts while using a retinoid, it may be time to switch to an alternate solution. If your skin is purging regularly, it's important that you talk with your doctor before switching to another product—or discontinuing use altogether!