KitK Esthetics

Purging vs Breakouts

What is purging and why is it a good thing?
Purging happens when we use a product that stimulates cell turnover. Products can include AHAs such as glycolic acid and services like chemical peels or even a facial with exfoliation. This speeds up cell regeneration, exfoliates and sloths off dead skin cells so new skin cells can form. While this process creates brighter, smoother skin, it can also bring up little marks resembling a breakout. Purging is usually not painful, doesn’t last long and doesn’t leave a mark behind.

Breakouts are more complicated. Breakouts happen when the hair follicle is clogged by oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. Breakouts last longer, can be inflamed or painful and usually leave a mark (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or scar. Breakouts can be caused by your diet, hormones, dirty phone or pillowcases, not cleansing properly, using the wrong products for your skin, and more.