Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is a popular skincare ingredient that offers various benefits. It is known to reduce inflammation, brighten skin tone, and improve overall skin health. However, many people experience breakouts after using The Ordinary Niacinamide serum. In this article, we will discuss whether The Ordinary Niacinamide serum causes purging and how to manage it.
What is Niacinamide Purging?
Niacinamide purging is a temporary skin reaction that occurs when using products with niacinamide. It is a natural process whereby the skin sheds dead cells and promotes cell turnover. During this process, existing impurities like blackheads and pimples rise to the surface, leading to an initial breakout. Niacinamide purging can last a few days up to four weeks.
Does The Ordinary Niacinamide Cause Purging?
The Ordinary Niacinamide serum contains 10% niacinamide and 1% zinc. Zinc is an ingredient known for its oil-regulating properties, making it helpful for acne-prone skin. While The Ordinary Niacinamide serum may cause purging in some people, it is not a guarantee. It depends on the individual’s skin type, sensitivity, and their current skincare routine.
How to Know if You Are Purging?
The key difference between purging and a breakout is the location of the blemishes. Purging occurs in the areas of your face that are prone to breakouts, such as the chin, forehead, and cheeks. Additionally, purging typically occurs in small pimples that are uniform in size and color. Breakouts, on the other hand, can occur anywhere on the face, regardless of whether you usually experience them or not.
How to Manage Niacinamide Purging?
Keep Using the Product
If you notice purging after using The Ordinary Niacinamide serum, do not stop using the product immediately. Niacinamide purging is a natural process that occurs when your skin is adjusting to a new product. Keep using the serum for at least four weeks to see if the purging reduces.
Introduce It Slowly
If you’re new to using niacinamide, it’s essential to introduce it slowly. Start with a small amount, and gradually increase as your skin gets used to it. This approach minimizes the chances of purging or irritation.
Pair It with a Gentle Cleanser
Using a gentle cleanser helps reduce excess oil and dirt that may contribute to breakouts. Pairing The Ordinary Niacinamide serum with a gentle cleanser helps prevent clogged pores, which can trigger purging.
Use a Moisturizer
Using a moisturizer can help balance skin hydration, which is essential when using any active ingredient. Moisturizers also help reduce irritation and soothe the skin. Consider using a moisturizer with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin to help hydrate the skin barrier.
Limit Other Active Ingredients
Using multiple active ingredients can cause irritation and increase the likelihood of purging. If you’re using The Ordinary Niacinamide serum, consider limiting your use of other exfoliants or acne treatments.
Conclusion
The Ordinary Niacinamide serum offers various benefits for acne-prone skin; however, it may cause purging in some people. Purging is a natural process that comes with using products that promote cell turnover. Fortunately, there are ways to manage purging and minimize its effects. By introducing niacinamide slowly into your routine, pairing it with a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and limiting other active ingredients, you can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing significant purging.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How long does Niacinamide purging last?
A: Niacinamide purging typically lasts between a few days up to four weeks. -
Q: Should I stop using The Ordinary Niacinamide serum if I’m experiencing purging?
A: No, you should continue using The Ordinary Niacinamide serum to allow your skin to adjust to the product. -
Q: Can Niacinamide purging cause scarring?
A: No, Niacinamide purging is a temporary reaction that does not cause scarring. -
Q: Is The Ordinary Niacinamide serum suitable for sensitive skin?
A: Yes, The Ordinary Niacinamide serum is suitable for sensitive skin; however, individuals with sensitive skin should introduce it slowly into their routine. -
Q: Can I use The Ordinary Niacinamide serum with other active ingredients?
A: Using multiple active ingredients can cause irritation and increase the likelihood of purging. If you’re using The Ordinary Niacinamide serum, consider limiting your use of other exfoliants or acne treatments.