How long does a skin care routine take to see results?
We’ve all probably thought that applying a new serum to our skin would “solve everything” only to be dismayed the next morning to discover that this was not the case.
Don’t get too frustrated because today I’m going to explain in more detail how long it takes to see the benefits of a customized skin care routine, so let’s get started.
How long should a skin care routine last?
Before we get into the benefits of skin care, we must first examine what the skin actually does and how a skin care routine can help or hinder the end result. Everyone’s skin has a cycle, by which I mean the process of how the skin rejuvenates and how new skin cells develop. Over the course of 28 days, new skin cells travel through the layers of the skin until they reach the surface. This usually results in the old layer of dead skin cells peeling off the face. As we age, this whole process slows down and can take about 60-90 days by the time we reach 50 years of age or older. This is an example of how the process should work. However, there are some obstacles that get in the way, such as: B. Dead skin cells that remain on the epidermis can cause a buildup of cells and bacteria, which can lead to spots, flakiness, uneven skin tone, and signs of premature aging.
That’s why starting a daily routine is so important for skin health. No matter how old you are, adopting a daily skin care routine will not only make your skin clear and healthy, but you’ll also find that all your worries just melt away. But as I mentioned, none of this will happen overnight (no matter how convincing the packaging may be). Instead, you can start seeing results after 4 weeks of consistent use of the skin care routine, and see further results after 6-8 weeks.
Results after 4 weeks of use
Acne and skin blemishes are significantly reduced
Fewer areas of scaly skin
Skin looks hydrated with no signs of dehydration
Complexion has a healthy glow
Results after 6 weeks
All of the above
Signs of premature skin aging such as fine lines are significantly less noticeable
Pigmented areas appear lighter
Results after 8 weeks
All of the above
Signs of deeper wrinkles are less noticeable
Skin aging, sagging is noticeably improved
Pigmentation and dark spots are visibly reduced
Remember, when you follow a skin care routine with active ingredients specifically targeting the skin concerns mentioned above, you can expect the following results.
How do I know my skin care routine is working?
It’s easy to spot: if your skin feels comfortable, hydrated, and clean, you’re probably using the right ingredients for your skin type and skin concerns. Your skin should look radiant, smooth, and not feel or look dry. However, if you experience any discomfort, you must stop using any new products immediately. If you can’t determine your skin type, check out our dedicated blog post on the 4 most common skin types.
How long does it take for my skin texture to improve?
This happens surprisingly quickly, and after one to two weeks, you can expect a noticeable improvement in your skin texture. This is usually achieved by using skin care products that contain chemical exfoliants such as AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid. These facial acids work wonders for improving skin texture because they dissolve the glue that holds dead skin cells together, making them easier to peel off from the surface of the skin. This will give you a smoother, more radiant complexion. You can find out all about these acids in our blog post on AHAs and BHAs and their benefits for your skin.
How long does it take for skin care products to absorb?
When following a daily skincare routine, you should allow enough time between product applications so that your skin can benefit from their use. Skincare products generally take around 30 minutes to be absorbed into the skin. Sometimes this can vary between individual products and the ingredients mixed into the formula. The buildup of dead skin cells as well as dirt, bacteria, and debris can also reduce the effectiveness of active ingredients or formulas as they cannot penetrate the barrier created by the outer layer of the skin. Making sure to cleanse your skin thoroughly before using an acid toner will remove anything that may be getting in the way, and you will also notice faster results.
How do I know if my skin doesn’t like my products?
If your skin isn’t tolerating the products you’re using, you will definitely notice it. While you may not experience any severe reactions or side effects, if you experience any form of irritation, from redness to flaky patches on your face, you should discontinue using the product. We always recommend doing a patch test on the inside of your forearm for at least 24 hours to avoid unnecessary breakouts or skin irritation. If you’re still unsure, you can also consult a doctor or dermatologist who can recommend the best products and routine for you and your skin type.
Here are some answers to your concerns about your daily skincare routine and how long you can expect the effects to last. If you want to know more about skin, need advice or want to share your tips and tricks, find us on our Instagram.
DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek.
“Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more.
Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals.
Sunscreen
“We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.”
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen
An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup.
Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand.
Vitamin C Serum
“A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum
The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation.
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum
This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants.
Peptides
Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.”
Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream
This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively.
This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek.
At-Home Peel Pads
Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate.
“The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.”
According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says.
Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad
A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection.
KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads
These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids.
Emollient Night Cream
“In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.”
“Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products.
Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream
One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme
“The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.