**Can Lactic Acid Lead to Skin Purging?**
Have you ever tried a new skincare product only to find your skin breaking out or flaring up with blemishes? Don’t be too quick to assume it’s a bad reaction—it might not be what you think! While it’s possible that certain ingredients in the product, such as a heavy face cream or something you’ve never used before, could be the cause, the breakout might also be due to a natural skin response called *purging*. If you’re not familiar with this term, don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll focus on skin purging related to AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), particularly lactic acid, as it’s known to be one of the milder exfoliants in skincare.
### What Exactly Is Skin Purging?
Purging is often confused with a typical breakout, but it’s a different process. Unlike breakouts caused by clogged pores, purging happens when active ingredients, such as exfoliants, speed up the skin’s cell turnover rate. This means the top layer of dead skin cells is sloughed off, which eventually leads to a brighter, smoother complexion. However, during the purging phase, you might experience more blackheads or pimples as your skin works to expel impurities from the deeper layers of your pores. The purging phase usually lasts anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, it’s important to stick with the product to allow your skin to build tolerance and fully benefit from the treatment.
### What Does Skin Purging Feel Like?
Purging typically presents as small, red bumps that may feel tender or painful to the touch. You’ll also notice common blemishes such as blackheads or whiteheads emerging. This can be easily mistaken for an acne flare-up, but the key difference is that purging is part of the skin’s natural process of detoxifying. Since these red bumps can look and feel like irritation or an allergic reaction, it’s always a good idea to patch test any new product first. Apply a small amount (about the size of a 10-pence coin) to the inside of your forearm and wait 24 hours to check for any signs of irritation. If no redness or itching occurs, it’s generally safe to use the product on your face.
### How Long Does Purging Last?
Typically, purging begins within 2 weeks of starting a new product, particularly if it contains exfoliating acids like lactic acid or glycolic acid. Our skin naturally renews itself every 28 days, but as we age, this process can slow down, leading to a build-up of dead skin cells, which can cause a dull, uneven complexion. When you start using exfoliating products, you may speed up this renewal process, which could lead to a purging phase that lasts anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks. However, because everyone’s skin is unique, it’s hard to predict exactly how long it will last. If purging continues beyond 6 weeks, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist to rule out other issues and make any necessary adjustments to your skincare routine.
### Which Acids Cause Purging?
Several skincare ingredients can trigger purging, including:
– **Retinoids/retinols**
– **AHAs**, such as lactic acid and glycolic acid
– **BHAs**, particularly salicylic acid
These acids are chemical exfoliants that help remove the top layer of dead skin cells and clear out impurities from the pores. After the initial purging phase, you’ll likely notice an improvement in skin clarity, and other products will absorb more effectively.
### Can Lactic Acid Harm Your Skin?
No, lactic acid is one of the gentler AHAs used in skincare. Unlike other acids like glycolic acid or salicylic acid, lactic acid has a larger molecular structure, meaning it works only on the outer layers of the skin. This makes it suitable for most skin types and less likely to cause irritation or penetrate too deeply into the dermis. Additionally, lactic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the surrounding environment, helping to keep your skin hydrated and plump, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
### How Long Does Lactic Acid Purging Last?
Similar to other purging phases, you can expect the effects of lactic acid to last between 4 and 6 weeks. Since lactic acid is considered gentle, you might find that the purging phase doesn’t last as long as with other stronger acids. However, if you have sensitive skin or are prone to flare-ups, it’s especially important to do a patch test before using lactic acid on your face. If the purging seems excessive or continues beyond 6 weeks, consult with a dermatologist for advice on adjusting the product usage.
To sum up, purging is a natural part of your skin’s adaptation to exfoliating ingredients like lactic acid. Although the initial phase may seem uncomfortable, it’s an important step toward clearer, brighter skin in the long term. Be patient and stay consistent with your routine, and your skin will thank you for it.
For more in-depth tips on lactic acid and its benefits, check out our dedicated blog post! Plus, don’t miss out on more skincare advice—subscribe to our YouTube channel, *The Green Sofa*—we’re sure you’ll love it!
