It is extremely tempting to try the latest it-serum that promises to give your skin renewed radiance and plumpness, or the new exfoliating cream that reduces acne in just 24 hours. And when that doesn't work in 24 hours - let's give the next face cream that promises to do just that!
While we get tempted to switch up our skin care routine, and seeing influencers who switch it up all the time and still get glowing skin, it can be detrimental to frequently change products. After all, these products take time to take result and jumping from one product to another can confuse your skin at best, and give your skin negative results at worse.
It can take anywhere from 2 weeks to even 3 months for skin care products to bring on noticeable changes.
Be careful of products that promise instant results - they may contain high concentrations of strong active ingredients that can be detrimental on your skin, or take longer than "instant". Depending on the product, it will definitely take time before you see results and this is based on the assumption that you are consistently using it at least once a day. If you're constantly switching between products, you may see no result at all and assume the worst of each product.
Why do products take so long to show results?
Just as your skin did not get where it is overnight, skin care products and even treatments have to slowly treat your skin and even change the way your skin works in order for there to be effective and long-lasting results.
For example, Vitamin C is often used in pigmentation products to reduce skin dullness, uneven complexion and spots. To do so, it inhibits the production of the pigment melanin in the skin. Melanin is the substance in your body that produces pigmentation in the hair, eye and skin - it is what causes colouration. In a study published in 2010 in the International Journal of Dermatology, effects of Vitamin C and other brightening agents only took effect after 12 weeks of administration.
Similarly, retinoids - or forms of Vitamin A, can take up 6 to 12 weeks to work. Retinoids can be applied on the skin to prevent pore blockage and reduces sebum production and acne - and it takes time for the skin to clear up upon using the product. Sebum production cannot be reduced overnight - it takes time, and even more time to clear up the excess oil clogging your skin, and then some more time to reduce bacteria inflammation.
You are sometimes advised to use a product, such as a retinoid, for only a few days of the week because it can be irritating for the skin at first. However, if you're also switching between a retinoid and other acne products on different days, it can take even longer for your skin to see results. It is thus always important to understand the products you're using, why they have been prescribed as such and the best way to see results from the product.
When to rethink your skin care regime?
Stick with what works for your skin - but be open to new technologies and the possibility that there's something better for your skin. Here's when you should change things up:
- When you're travelling to a different climate - the most common problem travellers face is breaking out or severely dry and peeling skin. This is due to a mismatch in skin care products and the climate you're in - if you live in a hot, tropical climate like Singapore and travel somewhere cold, it is important to bring along a richer moisturiser that can protect your skin from the cold.
- Your age - what works for you at 18 will differ drastically from what you need at 30. Your skin changes as you age and a few common ones include reduced sebum and collagen production - this leads to drier skin with increased appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin.
- Poor reaction to a certain product - this scenario worsens if you're constantly changing up your skin care products and it is difficult to find the cause of your reaction. By sticking to a few key products consistently, you will be able to eliminate products that causes reaction to your skin.
If you're experiencing any of these situations, it's a good idea to talk to your dermatologist to figure out what you can do and how to tweak your routine for the time being.
Introduce new products to your routine with care - and with advice from a professional to reduce chances of mismatch.
Introduce one new product into your routine at a time, and give them at least 2 weeks before introducing another new product. While these are simply guidelines, it is important to rely on consistency to avoid negative and long-term reactions. Always get professional advice to see how your skin can be treated effectively.
Call us at +65 92201139 to see how we can help you achieve beautiful skin!