“It might get worse before it gets better.”

We get it: these are the last words you want to hear. But we’ll always be real with you, even when the going gets tough. Achieving and maintaining clear skin is more like running a marathon than a sprint, and we’re in it with you for the long haul!

When you start your custom Curology formula, you may notice your skin breaking out more at first. Counterintuitive as it may seem, this means the acne-fighting ingredients are doing their job! This unpleasant process is called purging.

If you notice your skin breaking out more in the first few weeks of using Curology, don’t be alarmed: it’s not uncommon to see an uptick in breakouts when starting any new acne medication. These breakouts range from superficial bumps and whiteheads to deep, inflamed cystic pimples. If you’re going through a purge now, just remember that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.

Why is my skin getting worse?

Prescription acne ingredients like tretinoin and azelaic acid work by targeting clogged pores, including those brewing deep below the surface. These are often brought up to the skin’s surface before they’re cleared out. Prescription acne ingredients also increase skin cell turnover, so the cells being sloughed off may clog pores and cause breakouts.¹

The good news: The purging period is only temporary! We know it’s easier said than done, but try to be patient — it should begin to clear up within 6-8 weeks.

The other good news: There are steps you can take to slow purging and calm your skin, so you can start seeing the skin-clearing power of Curology sooner!

Skin purging vs. breakouts: How to tell the difference

Understanding whether your skin is experiencing purging or a breakout can be perplexing, especially when you’re trying out a new skincare product. Here are some tips for telling the difference between the two to manage your skin effectively.

When your skin is purging

When you begin using a new acne medication, such as tretinoin, it’s common to experience skin purging. This is because active ingredients in such medications accelerate skin cell turnover, bringing existing clogged pores to the surface.² Signs of skin purging include a flare-up of acne, irritation, or dry skin and peeling. Notably, the acne typically emerges in areas where you usually have breakouts, not new areas. Another key characteristic of skin purging is that these new breakouts may tend to heal somewhat quicker than your usual acne.

When it’s a breakout

On the other hand, a breakout differs from purging in several ways. Breakouts often occur when you start using a new product containing ingredients that can clog pores (comedogenic ingredients). The acne in a breakout scenario may appear in areas where you don’t normally have issues. Additionally, these breakouts follow your typical acne cycle, taking the usual amount of time to fade.

Monitoring your skin’s reaction after starting any new skincare regimen is important. If you notice persistent breakouts or any severe reactions, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatology provider for personalized advice.

What to do if your skin is purging

1. Ease off the cream

When you see worsening breakouts, your first instinct will probably be to slather on even more of your formula. Unfortunately, this won’t help and might even make purging worse. Instead, try reducing your use to once every other evening to see if that improves the irritation.

2. Watch what you wash with

The Curology Gentle Cleanser is gentle enough for purging skin, so if you’re using the full Curology set, carry on! If you’re using a different cleanser, check out our Cleanser Guide to make sure you’re using the right one for your skin. Avoid abrasive physical exfoliants and scrubs, and stay away from chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs. Tempting as it may be to blast breakouts with the heavy artillery, certain ingredients will leave your skin dry, red, and irritated, and won’t do anything to help purging.

3. Pat dry and chill

Make sure your skin is completely dry post-cleansing before you apply your Curology cream. Pro tip: Set a timer for 20 minutes after washing your face, so it has plenty of time to dry before putting on your cream. Any moisture remaining in your skin can make skincare products absorb faster and increase their potency, which can lead to irritation.

4. Moisturize

Applying a moisturizer before or after your Curology cream can soothe dry, inflamed skin without compromising the effectiveness of the acne-fighting ingredients. The Curology Moisturizer is light and non-comedogenic, so this is a great option if you’re using the full Curology set. If you’re using your own moisturizer, opt for something light, non-greasy, and water-based, so it won’t clog your pores. Check out our Moisturizer Guide for tips and product recommendations!

5. Contact your provider

If more than 6-8 weeks have gone by and your skin is still getting worse, reach out to your dermatology provider about adjusting your custom mix. We’re always here to answer your questions and help you figure out what’ll work for your unique skin! The solution may be as simple as changing a single ingredient or decreasing the strength of your personalized formula. Your Curology provider will work with you to get your formula right in the Goldilocks zone!

What to avoid during skin purging

When experiencing skin purging, handling your skin with care is essential to avoid further irritation. First, resist the urge to give up on your current product and switch to a new one immediately. Frequently changing products can exacerbate skin irritation and prolong the purging process.³

It’s also important not to scrub your skin clean aggressively. While it might be tempting to physically exfoliate the skin in an attempt to clear it, this can actually worsen irritation and disrupt your skin’s natural healing process.⁴

Avoid popping or squeezing the pimples. This can lead to more inflammation, potential scarring, and the spread of bacteria, which might worsen the breakout.⁵ Instead, consider using an Emergency Spot Patch. These patches can help conceal the affected area and absorb excess oil to encourage healing.

Last, ensure you use your treatment as directed, not just on the breakout areas.⁶ Consistent application helps in the overall management of skin health and helps prevent new acne from forming. Remember, patience and gentle care are key during this period.

This, too, shall pass

Remember that light at the end of the tunnel? It’s closer than you may think! Purging breakouts usually have a shorter life cycle than regular breakouts because the acne-fighting ingredients in your Curology Custom Formula are working to speed up the process. It’s easy to get a bit of tunnel vision when you see your skin misbehaving, but we’re confident that if you stick with your routine, your skin will thank you! So keep calm and keep putting that cream on. You’re almost there — we’ve got you.

Curology is here to help with acne

One of the benefits of being a Curology patient is that you never have to wonder if you’re experiencing skin purging or an acne breakout. You can just message your Curology provider and ask! Your dermatology provider can give you additional tips to help manage skin issues or adjust your Custom Formula if necessary.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

If you aren’t yet a Curology member, you can sign up today* to get your personalized formula. You’ll be asked to answer some questions about your medical history and skincare goals. Then you’ll snap a few pictures of your skin. If Curology is right for you, a licensed dermatology provider will prescribe your formula with up to 3 active ingredients clinically proven to help fight acne.

P.S. We did the homework, so you don’t have to:

1. Del Rosso, J. Q., Retinoid-Induced Flaring in Patients with Acne Vulgaris: Does It Really Exist?. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. (May 2008).

2. Del Rosso, J. Q., Retinoid-Induced Flaring in Patients with Acne Vulgaris: Does It Really Exist?. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.

3. American Academy of Dermatology. 10 Skin Care Habits That Can Worsen Acne. (n.d.)

4. American Academy of Dermatology. 10 Skin Care Habits That Can Worsen Acne. Ibid.

5. American Academy of Dermatology. 10 Skin Care Habits That Can Worsen Acne. Ibid.

6. American Academy of Dermatology. 10 Skin Care Habits That Can Worsen Acne. Ibid.

7. Del Rosso, J. Q., Retinoid-Induced Flaring in Patients with Acne Vulgaris: Does It Really Exist?. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. Ibid.

Elise Griffin is a certified physician assistant at Curology. She received her Master of Medical Science in physician assistant studies from Nova Southeastern University in Jacksonville, FL.

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

**Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Elise Griffin, PA-C