Why Acne Sometimes Gets Worse Before It Gets Better
Understanding the "Purge"
Starting a new acne treatment can feel like a leap of faith—especially when your skin seems to get worse before it gets better. That sudden flare-up? Some people might call this the purge, and while it’s frustrating, it’s also a normal part of the healing process for many people.
The Lifecycle of a Pimple
According to Dr. Jen Haley, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, what you’re seeing on the surface today actually started forming six to eight weeks ago. That means even if you start the world’s best skincare routine today, you still have weeks of trapped oil, dead skin cells, and inflammation working its way up to the surface. 📚 Read more on the acne formation process from the American Academy of Dermatology
🎥 Watch Dr. Jen Haley explain why it takes so long to improve acne and why breakouts may get worse before they improve:
”Full-Face
Dr. Haley emphasizes that treating just the pimples you can see isn’t enough. Spot treating may help with surface-level inflammation, but acne is often forming beneath the surface weeks in advance.
Treating your entire face helps prevent future breakouts while calming the skin you can see now.
📚 Learn why full-face application is recommended for acne from DermNet
Where AO2 Clear Fits In
AO2 Clear delivers billions of oxygen nanobubbles to your skin, helping fight the root causes of acne—without overloading it with harsh ingredients.
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✅ Oxygen kills anaerobic acne bacteria
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✅ Reduces inflammation on contact
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✅ Safe for full-face use with zero irritation
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✅ No purging, stinging, or peeling
Because AO2 Clear contains only two ingredients—oxygen + distilled water—it’s ideal for inflamed, purging, or sensitive skin types.
How to Adjust to AO2 Clear for the Best Results
Everyone’s skin is different—and when you start something new, your skin may take a little time to adjust. That’s totally normal! AO2 Clear is designed to support your skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and bring everything back into balance with consistent use.
Here’s how to help your skin get the best results:
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Use AO2 Clear consistently—twice a day for 30 days. The more consistent you are, the more your skin can benefit from the oxygen support.
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If your skin is sensitive or breaking out, gently dab the sponge instead of rubbing. This keeps things calm and non-irritating.
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Try a cotton round if the sponge feels too textured. Some people prefer the feel of cotton during certain skin phases.
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Make sure the sponge is fully saturated. A soft, saturated sponge ensures smoother, more comfortable application.
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Let your skin air dry before applying your next product. This allows the oxygen to fully absorb before sealing it in with moisturizer.
The Takeaway: Trust the Process
Breakouts don’t happen overnight—and neither does healing. If your acne gets worse before it gets better, don’t panic. It’s often a sign that your skin is adjusting, especially when switching from harsh treatments to barrier-supportive products.
With time, consistency, and gentle full-face care, clear skin is possible—and AO2 Clear is here to support that journey.
