Seeing some changes in your skin and not sure if it's normal? That's completely okay. We'll help you understand exactly what's going on.
Take a moment to compare what you're seeing with these common signs. This can help you tell whether your skin is purging or having a different reaction.
Purging happens in your usual breakout zones: chin, forehead, or cheeks where you've broken out before. New, unusual locations suggest something else.
Same zones = likely purgingMild texture changes are normal. But persistent burning, stinging, excessive redness, or peeling could mean your skin is reacting negatively to the product.
Pain & burning = likely breakoutPurging usually starts within the first 1–2 weeks of using a new active ingredient. If it began weeks later after your skin had already adjusted, it's less likely to be purging.
First 1–2 weeks = likely purgingPurging typically resolves within 6–8 weeks as your skin finishes its adjustment cycle. If things are getting worse after 8+ weeks, contact our team.
Beyond 8 weeks = reach outHere's a quick reference to help you compare what you're experiencing.
Here are three possible paths depending on how your skin is responding.
Stay consistent with your BHA serum. Purging resolves within 6–8 weeks and stopping will only restart the cycle. Moisturise well and wear SPF daily.
Chat with usStop using the BHA serum temporarily and message our team. We'll review your situation and give you personalised guidance on next steps.
Message usNo need to guess alone. Send us a quick photo of what you're seeing on WhatsApp and our skincare team will give you a clear answer within hours.
Send a photoNot necessarily. If your skin isn't in pain, it's usually safe to continue. But if you're experiencing burning or severe redness, pause and reach out to us.
Typically 4–8 weeks. Most of our customers see the peak around weeks 4–6, with gradual improvement after that. By week 8, most skin has cleared significantly. If there's no improvement after 8 weeks, contact our team.
Yes, but keep it simple. Use a gentle cleanser like our Oat Silk Gel Cleanser, a good moisturiser like the Urea Moisture Cream or Barrier Repair Cream, and SPF like the Zelaton Sunscreen. Avoid layering other actives (like retinol or vitamin C) during the adjustment period — let the BHA do its work without overloading your skin.
It can, yes. Stopping and restarting essentially resets the purge cycle. That's why consistency is important. Pushing through the initial phase gets you to clear skin faster than starting over.
Regardless of whether it's purging or not, these tips will support your skin right now.
Cleanser, moisturiser, SPF. That's it for now. Avoid adding new actives until your skin settles.
Hydrated skin heals faster and handles actives better. Don't skip this step, it's your barrier's best friend.
BHA increases sun sensitivity. Broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable, even on cloudy days.
However tempting, leave the bumps alone. Picking slows healing and can cause scarring regardless of the cause.
Snap a photo every few days in the same lighting. It's easier to spot patterns over time and useful if you decide to message our team.
Whether you're purging and want support, or still figuring things out, our skincare team is just a message away.
Available Monday–Saturday · Typically replies within 2 hours
No judgment, no pressure. Whether it's purging or not, we'll help you figure out the best path forward for your skin.