How Long To See Benefits Skin Care Routine?
It is safe to say that we have all, at one time or another, thought that applying a new serum to our skin will “fix everything” only to feel quite disheartened by morning to find it hasn’t.
Don’t be feeling too down in the dumps, as today I am going to share with you in more detail how long exactly you can expect to see the benefits of using any bespoke skincare routine, so let’s get started.
How long should a skincare routine take?
Before we start our discussion about skincare benefits, we must first explore what the skin actually does and how skincare routines can either help or hinder the final results. Everyone’s skin has a cycle, by this I mean the process of how the skin is rejuvenated and how new skin cells are developed. During a course of 28 days the new skin cells make their way up through the layers of the skin until they reach the surface. This generally leads to the old layer of dead skin cells to shed away from the face. This entire process slows down as we age and can take roughly 60-90 days once we have reached our 50s and over. This is an example of how the process should take place, however, there are some hurdles that interfere along the way such as dead skin cells remaining on the epidermis resulting in a build-up of cells and bacteria which leads to spots, flaky, uneven skin tone and signs of premature ageing.
This is exactly why it is vital for the health of your skin to begin a daily routine. No matter what age you are, establishing a daily skincare routine will not only give your skin clarity and a healthy appearance, but you will find any concerns you had will be reversed. But as I have previously mentioned, none of this will happen overnight (no matter how convincing the packaging may be) Instead you can expect to see the first set of results after consistently using a skincare routine for 4 weeks and then further results between 6-8 weeks.
Results after 4 weeks use
Acne and blemishes significantly reduced
Flaky patches of skin reduced
Skin looks moisturised with no signs of dehydration
All over healthy glow to the complexion
Results after 6 weeks
All of the above mentioned
Signs of premature ageing such as fine lines notably less visible
Areas of pigmentation becoming lighter in appearance
Results after 8 weeks
All of the above mentioned
Signs of more deep-set wrinkles reduced in appearance
Skin ageing, such as sagging visibly improved
Pigmentation and dark spots visibly reduced
Bear in mind, these are the results you can expect to see if you have a skincare routine that includes potent ingredients that can target the skin concerns mentioned.
How do I know my skincare routine is working?
For this it is quite easy to figure out, and that is, if your skin is feeling comfortable, hydrated and clear, then chances are you are applying the right ingredients for your skin type and any concerns you have. Your skin should look vibrant and smooth whilst not feeling or looking dry, if however, you are experiencing any form of discomfort you must stop using all new products immediately. If you are having difficulty trying to find which skin type you are then check out our dedicated blog post about the 4 most common skin types.
How long does it take to improve my skin texture?
This surprisingly can be very fast and after one to two weeks you can expect to see a vast improvement of the skin’s texture. This is quite often achieved by introducing a skincare product that contains chemical exfoliating ingredients like AHAs and BHAs, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid. It is these facial acids that work wonders on improving the skin’s texture as they work at dissolving the glue holding the bonds of dead skin cells making them easier to slough off the surface of the skin. Thereby leaving you with a smoother more vibrant complexion. You can find out every about these acids on our blog post about what AHAs and BHAs are and their skin benefits.
How long does it take for skincare products to absorb?
When applying your skincare routine, it is said that leaving a good amount of time between products allow the skin to benefit from the application. Typically speaking, around 30 minutes is the amount of time it takes for skincare products to absorb into the skin. This can sometimes vary between each product and the which ingredients are blended into the formulation. Build-up of dead skin cells and layer of dirt, bacteria and debris can also interfere with the effectiveness of any potent ingredients or formulas as they would not be able to penetrate through the barrier created on the outer layer of the skin. Ensuring you have fully cleansed the skin before using an acid toner will remove anything that may get in the way, you will also find you notice quicker results too.
How do I know if my skin doesn’t like my product?
You will certainly know if your skin isn’t enjoying a product you are applying to it. Though there may not be severe reactions or side effects, any form of irritation, from redness to flaky patches on the face are all signs you should stop using the product. We always advise to perform a patch test on the inner forearm for at least 24 hours to avoid any unwanted flare-up or skin irritation. You can also consult a doctor or dermatologist if you are still unsure and they will guide you to the best products and routine best suited for you and your skin type.
There you have some answers for any worries you had concerning your skincare routine and how long you can expect to see any results. If you are wanting to know more about skin, need any advice or fancy sharing your tips and trick, please find us over 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.
