Almost every product on the market requires a certain amount of time before it really starts showing results. There is a science to it, after all. The problem is, many of us become impatient and figure the product just doesn’t work after a short amount of time, when in fact, we just haven’t given it a chance.
That’s why, in this article, we’re going to discuss how long it takes for skin care products to work. Keep reading to learn more.
IN A NUTSHELL
Main Takeaways: If your new skin care products aren’t working, it may be that you just haven’t given them enough time yet. You should really give skin care products a minimum of 28 days to start working their best.
Good to Know: How long a product starts taking to work usually depends on what kind of job it’s trying to do.
Recommended Products: Deluxe Set.
How Long Does It Take for Skin to Replace Itself?
First, let’s talk a little bit about your skin in general. You may not realize it, but your skin actually regenerates itself every 28 to 42 days. How long it actually takes your skin depends on your age, genetics and skin health. Once you hit the “golden years”, this number can greatly increase.
Although the exact number of days vary, new skin cells from the dermis and hypodermis (the layers of skin beneath the epidermis), are coming up to the top layer little by little every day. It takes at least 28 days for those new skin cells to reach the top.
Why does this happen? Well, because your skin is exposed to the elements, it’s susceptible to infection. That’s why our skin gradually renews itself– for our protection. Our cell turnover is quicker when we are young and slows with age. The amount of time it takes for our skin to regenerate is the key to understanding how long it takes for skin care products to work.
Different Products Take Different Amounts of Time to Work
Even though it can take an entire month for your skin to regenerate, it doesn’t necessarily mean that’s exactly when a skin care product’s effectiveness will kick in. Some products may work faster, and some may even take a little more time than that. A good rule of thumb is that the more intense the job your product is trying to do, the longer it will likely take for you to see results.
For example, take our So Clean! facial cleanser. There’s no question that even on the first try, you’ll probably notice a difference in how your skin feels and looks. It quickly cleanses the skin and removes light makeup.
But when you aim to brighten your skin with a vitamin C serum, such as Nectar of the C, you may find it takes a bit longer to see that glow come through. That’s because the dark spots or uneven skin tone you are aiming to correct is caused by damage deeper than just the surface of your skin.
Similarly, certain products may produce instant results in some ways, but need to be used longer to produce others.
Our H2 Oh Yeah hydrating moisturizer will immediately impart hydration to your skin; but over time, it can also help smooth and soften your skin, resulting in more even skin tone.
How Long Does it Take My Eye Cream to Work?
For most, it generally takes about a month for you to see results with an eye cream. The skin around the eyes is very delicate and produces very little oil. It’s also thin, so it tends to develop wrinkles and lines faster than the rest of your skin (plus, it usually crinkles up when we smile). For that reason, you’ll most likely need to give an eye cream, like our Eyes Eyes Baby, a few weeks before you really start seeing a reduction in the look of wrinkles, bags, and puffiness.
How Long Does it Take My Toner to Work?
Toners offer a variety of benefits, so it really depends on what type of toner you are using. For example, our Rose and Shine rosewater toner will instantly refresh and hydrate your skin, while an exfoliating toner may take a few weeks to see results.
How Long Does it Take to Get Clear Skin?
If your goal in starting a new skin care routine with over-the-counter products is to clear your skin of breakouts, irritation, or even dark spots, we recommend giving it at least a month, the general amount of time it takes for skin to regenerate. That said, for various reasons– such as the level of damage your skin has endured– it could take longer.
How Long Does It Take To Get Your Natural Skin Color Back?
Dark spots, whether caused by sun, acne, or even hormones, are a constant skin care problem for many of us. Luckily, their appearance can be reduced with a thoughtful skin care routine, but it may take a while. Although it depends on how dark the spots are (and how diligent you are about your skin care routine), it can sometimes take a few months and in some cases, even a few years.
What if My Skin Breaks Out with a New Product?
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably experienced a break out with new products at one point or another. This is especially true if you have sensitive skin, oily skin, or are just prone to irritation and breakouts in general. There’s no question that skin needs a chance to acclimate to a new product, especially if it’s something you’ve never used before, like say an exfoliant. That said, if you have an allergic reaction to using a product, you should stop using it immediately.
The bottom line is that most new skin care routines, even most new skin care products, need a little time to prove what they can do. After at least 28 days, the general amount of time it takes for skin to go through the regeneration process, the effects of those products should be evident. So as a general rule, give new products at least 4 weeks to see results, be consistent, and try to be patient as your skin adjusts. In most cases, the wait is well worth it.
