Why do I get some sort of zits or papules after applying the product for a while?

When you start a new skin care routine or you incorporate new products into your current regimen, you may experience breakouts or skin flaking. This process is sometimes called purging. This is a normal, short-term condition where the skin will rid itself of underlying oil, bacteria, or dirt.  These flare ups usually have a shorter lifespan than your usual breakouts, which can last up to six weeks. 

Since the product you are using is increasing the rate of skin cell turnover, all the gunk will inevitably rise to the surface of your pores quickly. New acne may make you question whether or not to stop using a product. Purging is a necessary process that your skin must go through to adjust to new skincare products. There is a method to all the madness that may be occurring on your face. 

Unlike breakouts, purging is the first sign of a product that will benefit your skin long-term. Rather than being a reaction to a product, purging is an indication that the product is speeding up that process of skin cell turnover. Again, in comparison to the red irritated pimples of breakouts, purging takes form in blackheads and flesh-colored bumps on the skin. Additionally, unlike breakouts that occur in new areas of the face, purging often occurs in areas where acne pops up frequently. Skin purging also appears and disappears quicker than breakouts. Continuing use of a product when purging occurs increases the frequency of that skin cell turnover cycle and helps improve the texture of your skin in the long-term.

The good news is that this annoying side effect is temporary. How long purging lasts depends on the individual, but on average, it lasts about a month. This is also the amount of time it takes for your new skin to come through at the end of a skin cell turnover cycle. If at the 6-8 week mark you do not see that your skin is starting to improve, this might be a time to either stop using the product or changing the formula.  Stay hydrated and moisturized can help you with tolerating the purging process. You should not further agitate your face by picking or touching your skin. Be sure to avoid using products that could further dry your skin or irritate the temporary purging like exfoliants.

If irritation and what looks like skin purging continue past the 6-8 week mark of using the product, it may be worthwhile to see a professional about your skin. Your skin may not be reacting well to the product. What may have initially seemed like purging may actually be a breakout in reaction to the product. 

After skin purging, hopefully, clearer, brighter, and smoother skin! In the end, purging is a good sign and is just one step to better skin. Keep at it, persevere, and continue using those products to improve your skin.