Nothing happens overnight, and the same goes for skincare products. We all have different skin types and use different skincare products that we expect results from. Many dermatologists have advised that instant gratification from skincare products should always be kept away, or else you will have your fair share of disappointment. For example, if you start using an acne treatment, excited to see visible results overnight, you will get nothing but dissatisfaction. Hence, it would be best to take a leap of faith and be patient with the results, as it will take a little longer for the skincare products to do their magic on your skin.
So here the question arises, how long does it take for skincare products to work? Considering the vast array of skincare options available, it might be a little challenging to figure out how long it takes skincare products to work.
We have broken down some essential skincare products; including cleansers, exfoliants, moisturizers, serums, anti-aging products, and some acne treatments, to see how long it will take for these products to have a notable impact on skin problems like acne, blemishes, fine lines, dark circles, dry skin, and hyper-pigmentation.
Cleansers
Skincare enthusiasts love cleansers because they quickly take out all the impurities from the skin. All the buildup and dirt after a long day can be swept right away with a good cleanser. You may not see a significant transformation in your skin from cleansers, as most cleansers are used mainly to clean the skin. However, if you use a cleanser diligently, over time, you may feel your skin getting supple and soft with every use. It is also essential to get your hands on a good quality cleanser as the quality of the product also determines how effective and instant its results will be.
Moreover, if you are using a cleanser for a specific skin problem like acne, dermatologists believe that you can start seeing improvement in a week.
Exfoliants
Exfoliation is one of the most vital steps of a skincare routine. It is the ultimate way of getting rid of dead skin cells, providing some ease to your skin, and giving you an overall radiant look.
If done correctly, exfoliation can give you visible results in your complexion almost immediately after application. However, it is essential to remember that exfoliating more frequently than you are supposed to will not provide you with extra benefits. Instead, it can cause severe skin reactions and irritation. Therefore, it’s best to start exfoliating once a week and increase the frequency if you feel like your skin is handling it well without any reaction.
Physical and chemical exfoliants are two types of different exfoliants. Physical exfoliants consist of tiny particles like sugar, grains, or beads. These particles help remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter and smoother skin.
On the contrary, chemical exfoliants contain acids like salicylic acid, lactic acid, and glycolic acid, which break up the bonds between skin cells. As a result, they chemically remove dead cells and penetrate deeper than physical exfoliants.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers are a vital part of a skincare routine. Regardless of your skin type, using a good-quality moisturizer can do wonders for your skin. They can give your skin the essential moisture it needs while leaving your skin soft.
When using a moisturizer, your skin can feel the difference the moment it gets absorbed. Moreover, with consistent use of one to two weeks, you can see improvements in the overall appearance of your skin.
Furthermore, the ingredients of your moisturizer should also be taken into account. For example, moisturizers with vitamin C can work overtime to brighten skin while boosting collagen to help eliminate fine lines if used continually. On the other hand, moisturizers with hyaluronic acid can show instant results of softer and supple skin.¹ Hyaluronic acid also helps plump skin to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Serums
Serums like moisturizers contain active ingredients, but they produce more long-term results than moisturizers. However, they take more time than moisturizers to produce visible results on the skin. It all depends on what ingredients are in the serum when trying to see results, but generally, when using a serum, it can take anywhere between three to eight weeks before you may see results in your skin.
Moreover, serums with vitamin C can take three weeks to see results. Vitamin c has many benefits, as mentioned, to name a few more; Vitamin c protects against sun damage and helps fight hyperpigmentation. With consistent use and patience of this powerhouse ingredient, you can get brighter, smoother skin.
Niacinamide is another popular ingredient used in serums today. It’s an ingredient that has gained a considerable following due to its countless skincare benefits. With regular use of Niacinamide, it can help minimize the appearance of pores, help fade dark spots, and regulate oil production. It’s recommended to use a niacinamide serum for about three weeks in order to see results.
When formulating Sundree’s RYSE+SHYNE facial serum, we knew we needed to include both Niacinamide and Vitamin c for their benefits. In addition, we have included Hyaluronic acid for hydration to help keep fine lines and wrinkles away and CBD for its anti-inflammatory benefits and help calm and soothe the skin. This blend of ingredients works so well together in this hydrating facial serum to really improve skin’s texture and leave your skin with a beautiful glow.
Anti-aging products
Anti-aging skincare products can take as little as two weeks and as much as three months to show noticeable results. It's commonly known that the more consistent you are in using the products, the more beneficial results they will yield. The best way to use anti-aging products is to follow a consistent routine, and over time, you will notice differences in your skin.
Retinol is one of the most well-known anti-aging products on the market.² A derivative of Vitamin A, it is a skin-renewing and repairing ingredient. It works to increase cell turnover while boosting collagen production. With use over time, retinol can help minimize fine lines and wrinkles, help fade dark spots and help smooth out skin’s texture. Retinol can be found in OTC products and by prescription. While OTC retinol can take up to 6 months to show results, prescription retinol can deliver results in a matter of weeks.
Acne Treatments
Acne can be stubborn and may not clear up as quickly as you may hope.³ However, the time for which acne products show their results solely depends on the severity of your acne, and of course, the quality of the products.
If you have one or two pimples, it may take a week to clear up. But, if your acne is more severe, chances are you may have to stick to an acne treatment for about two months to get your skin all cleared up.
Moreover, some people may opt to see a dermatologist for their acne, and if prescribed an oral medication, results can be expected in about three weeks. Other acne treatments are light therapy, chemical peels, and steroid injections. These treatments may be done in combination with medications or on their own.
Tips for Optimal Results
Now that you know how long it takes for skincare products to show their results, you might be wondering what more you can do to ensure you actually get the results. We have stacked up some beneficial tips to help you get the best out of your skincare products and routine.
- Be consistent with your skincare routine. Don’t give up if you don’t see results immediately. Remember, results take time.
- Always apply sunscreen before going out as it protects your skin from harmful UV rays, helps prevent hyperpigmentation and early signs of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Exfoliate and cleanse daily to remove any buildup or excess oil on the skin.
- It is important to remember, we all have different skin types, and just because a product works for others, doesn't mean it will work for you.
- Take notice of your skincare routine and eliminate a product that is not working for you. A wrong skincare routine can mess up everything
- Always make sure you are using good-quality products
- Watch your diet and drink plenty of water
In Conclusion
The long wait to see a difference in your skin can get very frustrating at times, especially if you are experiencing breakouts. Remember, patience and consistency is the key in any skincare routine. Soft, supple, and clear skin doesn’t happen overnight, it’s a process, and with a complete skincare routine, it can be achieved. Finally, be regular with your skincare routine, and make sure to never miss out on the essential steps.
Citations:
- Ames, Hana. (2021). ’11 benefits of hyaluronic acid for the face and body’, Medical News Today. Accessed July 20, 2021. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hyaluronic-acid-benefits
- Sharkey, Lauren. (2020). ‘Yes, Retinol Is Safe-When Used Correctly. Here’s How to Get Started’, Accessed July 20, 2021. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/is-retinol-safe
- Mayo Clinic. ‘Acne’, org. Accessed July 23, 2021. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
