Purging vs Breakout Diagnostic
Starting a new glycolic acid product and suddenly breaking out? It could be a skin purge - a temporary reaction where existing congestion is pushed to the surface - or it could be a genuine breakout caused by an ingredient that does not agree with your skin.
Answer six quick questions below and this tool will analyze the pattern of your reaction to help you tell the difference. All analysis happens in your browser - we do not collect or store your answers.
Answer six questions about your skin reaction and we will analyze the pattern to help you determine whether you are experiencing a purge or a breakout.
Understanding Skin Purging
Your skin is constantly renewing itself. Old cells on the surface shed and new cells from deeper layers take their place - a process called cell turnover. For most adults, a full turnover cycle takes about 28 to 40 days. During that time, tiny clogs (microcomedones) can form deep in your pores, invisible to the naked eye.
When you introduce a product that accelerates cell turnover - such as glycolic acid, retinoids, or other chemical exfoliants - it compresses this cycle. Microcomedones that would have slowly surfaced over weeks or months are brought up all at once. The result is a sudden crop of whiteheads, blackheads, or small bumps that can look alarming but is actually a sign that the product is doing its job.
The key distinction is that purging brings existing clogs to the surface faster, while a breakout creates new clogs caused by an ingredient irritating or occluding your skin. Purging resolves on its own as your skin finishes cycling through its backlog of congestion. A breakout will persist or worsen as long as you continue using the offending product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer
This diagnostic tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The assessment is based on common dermatological patterns, but it cannot account for individual skin conditions, medications, allergies, or other personal health factors. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist if you are unsure about a skin reaction, especially if you experience deep cystic lesions, widespread redness, burning, or any reaction that worsens over time. If you experience a severe allergic reaction, discontinue the product immediately and seek medical attention.
Want to Learn More?
For a comprehensive deep dive into the science behind purging, including cell turnover timelines, which ingredients cause purging, and detailed guidance on when to push through versus when to stop, read our full guide: Purging vs Breakout: How to Tell the Difference.
