16/09/2026
✨ ACNE, ACTIVE INGREDIENTS & THE “PURGE”
Starting an acne treatment can sometimes feel like your skin is getting worse before it gets better… but is it actually purging? 👀
When introducing ingredients such as Mandelic Acid, Azelaic Acid or Retinol, the skin’s cell turnover can increase and bring existing microcomedones, which are clogged pores already forming beneath the surface, to the surface faster.
That process is commonly called purging.
But here’s the important part: not every breakout after starting an active is a purge. 🚨
A true purge tends to:
• Appear in areas where you normally experience acne
• Start relatively soon after introducing the active
• Gradually settle as the skin adjusts
• Improve as the underlying congestion is cleared
If you’re suddenly breaking out in completely new areas, experiencing significant burning, itching, swelling or persistent irritation, it may be irritation or a reaction rather than purging.
🧴 Mandelic Acid
A gentler AHA that exfoliates the skin and can help with congestion, breakouts and post-acne marks.
🌿 Azelaic Acid
Helps address acne, inflammation and pigmentation, making it particularly useful when breakouts and dark marks come as a package deal.
🌙 Retinol
Encourages cell turnover and can help prevent clogged pores while supporting smoother, clearer-looking skin over time.
The goal isn’t to attack acne with every active at once. It’s about choosing the right ingredient, concentration and frequency for your skin, then giving your skin time to respond. 🤍
✨ Clearer skin is a process, not an overnight treatment.
Not sure whether your skin is purging or reacting? Book a skin analysis with us and let’s work out what your skin actually needs.
📲 WhatsApp us to book your consultation. 58597992