You come home tanned, rested… and yet, in front of the mirror, the spots have returned like one too many guests in the suitcase. All summer long, your skin looked smooth, pores tightened, and almost no more imperfections. At the start of the school year, this sudden turnaround surprises and disappoints.
For dermatologists, this scenario is very common after the holidays. This return of imperfections has a name: rebound effect, often also called purge effect on networks. On Instagram, dermatologist Marie Jourdan, followed by more than 211,000 people, reminds us that these breakouts are not accidental.
Back-to-school purge effect: what the buttons mean
Contrary to appearances, acne does not heal in July and reappear in September. In summer, the light evens out the complexion, we put on less makeup, the marks are less visible, so we think we are “”. At the start of the school year, the rebound effect gives the impression of a new outbreak.
In reality, the disease has not disappeared, it has just become discreet. The September breakout doesn’t mean your routine is “off” or that you’re developing another form of acne. This is a transient phenomenon, expected in many acne-prone skin.
Sun, UV and epidermis: why the skin “takes revenge”
In summer, UV rays temporarily calm the inflammation of spots and thicken the epidermis, explains Marie Jourdan on her Instagram account. On the surface, the skin appears clearer. Below, sebum and impurities are found “”, which gradually blocks the pores.
When the holidays end, the skin becomes refined again, the anti-inflammatory effect fades and what was blocked comes out. The pores open and the accumulated sebum is evacuated, sometimes within a few weeks. Result: pimples, blackheads, sometimes more numerous than before departure.
Limit the purging effect: useful actions and warning signals
To limit this outbreak, it is better to stick to a simple and regular routine. The dermatologist advises avoiding excessive exposure and choosing non-comedogenic sun protection. At home, we rely on a gentle cleanser, light hydration and we continue the prescribed treatments, if necessary adjusted with the doctor.
Not all re-entry flares are related to the rebound effect. A real skin purge caused by an exfoliating active ingredient remains rather confined to areas that are already acne-prone. An allergic reaction results in redness, itching and small papules or vesicles that can appear anywhere. The Repeat Application Test, or ROAT, involves applying the product to a small area once or twice a day for several days; If signs occur, it is best to seek advice from a doctor or dermatologist.
How long does the rebound effect last after summer?
Pimples linked to the rebound effect often appear in the weeks following return from vacation and then gradually regress. If the flare-up continues or becomes painful, talk to a dermatologist.
Should you stop your treatments in the event of a purging effect?
It is usually not necessary to change everything. We favor a simple, non-irritating routine, and we continue the prescribed treatments, unless otherwise advised by the doctor or dermatologist.
How to recognize an allergic reaction to a cosmetic?
An allergy tends to cause diffuse redness, itching, small papules or vesicles, sometimes in areas that are usually not acne-prone. The ROAT test and medical advice help confirm the diagnosis.
Sources
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