- Brief, mild tingling can happen with new products.
- Persistent burning, itching, swelling or hives means stop.
- Peptide serums don't usually cause 'purging' the way retinoids and acids can.
What's usually fine
- Mild tingling that fades within a minute or two.
- Slight warmth on freshly cleansed or exfoliated skin.
- A tightness that goes away once you moisturise.
What's not normal
If you notice any of these, stop using the product, rinse with cool water and talk to a healthcare provider if it doesn't settle.
- Burning or stinging that doesn't fade.
- Itching, swelling, hives or a rash.
- Redness that lasts for hours or gets worse with each use.
What about purging?
Purging describes a temporary increase in breakouts when you start ingredients that speed up cell turnover, like retinoids or exfoliating acids. Peptide serums don't typically work that way, so new breakouts after starting a peptide serum are less likely to be purging. If they continue, stop and reassess.
How to start any new serum
- Patch testTry it on your inner arm or jawline for 24–48 hours.
- Go slowUse it once a day for the first week.
- One change at a timeDon't start several new products at once.
FAQ
Is tingling a sign a serum is working?
Not necessarily. Many effective products cause no sensation at all. Tingling isn't a measure of results.
Do peptides cause purging?
Peptide serums don't typically cause purging, which is more associated with retinoids and exfoliating acids.
What should I do if my skin reacts?
Stop using the product, rinse with cool water and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
This article is for general information only and isn't medical advice. DOSE is a cosmetic product and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual results vary.