How Long Does it REALLY Take for Your Skincare to Work?

Hey Beautiful!

If you've used a skincare product before and wondered if it's even really working, you're not alone.

So how long should you wait to give it a chance to work and when's the right time to throw in the towel?

It's not always black and white so let me explain....

So much has to do with the quality of the product you're using, its strength and your commitment to using it.

Our cell rate turnover slows down as we age and that means less new skin up to the surface.

The ingredients I'm about to talk about have superstar abilities that are KEY when it comes to supporting the health of your skin, renewing your cells and stimulating collagen. 

Hyaluronic Acid is unique because unlike other products that have a progressive effect on the skin, HA gets to work immediately so you may see visibly plumper and hydrated skin after just a few short minutes.

Not too shabby, ey? 

If you haven't read our blog yet on What They Don't Tell You About HA, make sure to read it when you're done here to ensure you're using it correctly and getting the results you want!

Another ingredient that gives you immediate gratification is CAFFEINE. That's because it helps constrict blood vessels that can help brighten the appearance of your dark under eye circles. This is why we've chosen it to be the superstar ingredient in our best-selling Eye Dream of Coffee! 

Let's switch gears and talk about one of my favorite anti-agers for a second -- ACIDS (aks AHA's & BHA's).

I specialize in light chemical peels in my spa and I'm a huge fan because I've seen the difference they can make on sluggish, devitalized and even acne-prone skin.

While acids may sound a little scary at first, when used properly they can lead to amazing results! Your skin may become softer, smoother, and more taught.

Some of my favorite acids for woman over 40 are glycolic, salicylic and lactic. 

In general, acids have smaller molecular sizes that can penetrate your dermis, but lactic acid tends to be more gentle and hydrating, while salicylic acid helps with clogged pores/breakouts and glycolic tends to pack a little bit more punch when you need it!

Although acids do yield some instant gratification, such as brighter looking skin, they have long-term benefits, too. However,  it may take a few months to see those deeper results. 

OK, let's talk holy grail products that have science backed studies for aging skin. 

When using OTC Retinol you can usually start to see an improvement in skin texture and breakouts (depending on what type and strength of retinoid you're using) in as little as one month, but in my experience, it can take 3-6 months to see the full benefits of anti-aging.  

Remember, Retinol has a progressive effect on the skin. The longer you use it with consistency, the better results you'll have.

However, one common and main issue you may have experienced with Retinol is that it's too drying on your skin.

Our Advanced Retinol Night Cream is different because unlike other drying retinoids, our Retinol contains nourishing butters to help keep your skin soft and hydrated overnight while it works. 

That's right, that means NO layering and no added steps to your skincare routine! 

However, if you're using a prescription or OTC Retinol that is a little too drying, try adding a good moisturizer on your skin first. This acts as a barrier to slow down the absorption rate which can make it more tolerable and less irritating. 

Next up is another one of my faves that often doesn't get the attention it deserves --  Niacinamide, in the B Vitamin family! 

Niacinamide has the capability to do so much more than you may think. If you suffer from breakouts, excessive oil production, redness or blotchiness it can start producing results in as little as one month.  

After two months, you may start to experience more even skin tone, similar to Vitamin C!

Speaking of Vitamin C, it's likely a staple in your routine by now.  

Although not all types of Vitamin C are created equal, they're a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals -- that's right, they prevent the damage from ever being done. 

It's no replacement for SPF, but rather an elevation to your beauty routine when used together! 

If you experience irritation with Vitamin C it's likely that the type of Vitamin C isn't right for you or the percentage is too high. To avoid irritation, stick with a lower percentage that works well on sensitive skin, like our Vitamin C + Correcting Serum.

I always say, you can't benefit from something you can't tolerate! 

When using Vitamin C, your skin may appear more even and brighter after only a few weeks but if you have a lot of hyperpigmentation (aka dark spots, liver spots, age spots), give it a minimum of three months before throwing in the towel.

Think of it this way - If it took months (or even years!) for it to appear, it'll likely take months to improve it, so be patient with yourself and know that it'll get better with time. If it doesn't, you can always try something else out. You may respond better to one ingredient over the other and that's total common. 

Last but certainly not least -- Peptides anyone? 

Chances are you've heard of peptides before too because, well, they really matter! In fact, our Eye Dream of Sleep (wrinkle repair mask) includes various peptides to help you build collagen and fight signs of wrinkles.

There are many different types of Peptides, so visible results depend on which one(s) you're using and for how long you use it. Having said that, a few months is usually a good standard to give yourself to see if it's going to be helpful for you.

And I always say that if you do everything right and then go in the sun without protecting your skin you'll undo everything you've worked so hard to accomplish -- so apply SPF regularly when you'll be outdoors and keep up the good work! 

Questions? Drop them below so we can discuss!

Remember, the more you know the more you glow.

With love,

Jentri