"I do all the right things, why does it happen?" Trust us, we feel you! Let’s dive into the world of breakouts and how to manage them effectively.
What is a Breakout?
Breakouts happen when hair follicles become blocked with a mix of skin cells and oil. These unwelcome guests can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules or cysts. While hormonal changes, diet, stress, and poor skin hygiene are common culprits, the reality is much more complex.
During puberty, hormones called androgens spike, enlarging oil glands and increasing sebum (oil) production. This often leads to breakouts on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Diet can also play a role, with processed foods, dairy, and a lack of fruits and vegetables contributing to the issue.
Debunking Misconceptions
Many believe "unhealthy" food is the main cause of breakouts, but that’s only part of the story. Other significant factors include:
Pore-clogging products: comedogenic ingredients
Skin irritation: Friction from leaning on skin and over-exfoliation
Picking & Squeezing: This can damage the skin and apair as inflammation/PIE
External pressure: Hats, backpacks and pillowcases can trigger breakouts
Hormonal changes: Especially in adolescent girls and women before menstruation
Stress: When your Hauora is out of balance, your skin often reflects it
Internal: Gut skin connection imbalance
A consultation with a skin therapist can help you identify triggers and we can craft a tailored plan for healthy skin. Knowledge is your best weapon against breakouts!
While were on the case of breakouts.. let’s talk about purging…
Purging vs. Breaking Out
Understanding whether you’re experiencing purging or breaking out is key to managing your skin.
Signs of Purging
Size: Smaller lesions with minimal inflammation
Appearance: Often clustered in areas prone to breakouts
Timing: Starts within a week of introducing a new product
Duration: Clears up in 4-6 weeks (a full skin cycle)
Signs of Breaking Out
Size: Larger lesions, such as papules, pustules, and cysts
Timing: Lasts beyond 6 weeks
Triggers: May be linked to hormonal changes, lifestyle, or diet
What to Do During a Purge...
The golden rule: Stick to your new routine. A purge is temporary and will subside. Giving up too soon can set back your progress and force you to start over later.
Here’s how to manage a purge effectively:
Stay consistent: Keep using your new products
Reduce inflammation: Use ice on breakouts to calm the skin or at home LED Therapy
Avoid picking or popping: This can lead to scars, Post Inflammatory Erythema and prolonged healing
Use spot treatments: Click here
Check your routine: Speak with us, we know the products and can recommend the next best steps for your skin and how to progress your routine
Breakouts might be the uninvited guest of 2025, but they don’t have to stay. With knowledge, consistency, and the right products, you can achieve clear, healthy skin. Book your consultation with us today and let’s take control of your skin journey together.
