Okay, so you’ve finally decided which skin care product to buy (from the seemingly number of choices).
But how can you tell if it’s actually doing a good job?
Here are 4 ways to determine if a product is worth keeping:
1. Test only 1 new product:
Avoid sampling a bunch of new products all at the same time. Why? Well the reason is pretty simple. If you have a bad reaction, how on earth are you going to know which is causing the problem?
Instead, incorporate just one new moisturizer, serum, sunscreen or cleanser into your routine at a time. That way you’ll be able to know whether it’s having a positive effect or not.
2. Give it enough time to prove itself to you:
Don’t be too quick to pass judgment on a skin care product. In other words, be realistic, and don’t expect to see miraculous results in an unreasonable amount of time.
Here’s a good guideline: When a product is working well, you can expect to see a healthier complexion within the first 7-14 days after first use. However, you’ll want to give a serum a little longer to go to work on wrinkles, fine lines, saggy skin or age spots. Roughly speaking, a month should be plenty of time to make the skin on your face smoother and more firm.
In other words, give a product a full month before giving a verdict on whether it’s working.
3. Stay alert to danger signs:
While it’s okay for a product to feel a bit tingly, be alert to stinging or burning sensations.
True, you may experience tingling or a rosy glow from some skin care products as they get to work. This includes ingredients such as AHA’s, vitamin C, exfoliating acids, essential oils and menthol.
But if a product is causing you pain, such as burning, stinging or some kind of allergic response, stop using it immediately. Then pay a visit to your dermatologist to get yourself fixed. (Be aware that even products you’ve been using for a while can induce an unpleasant response at certain times – Our skin just gets a bit temperamental sometimes!).
4. Consider other factors in your life:
One other point to bear in mind is that sometimes it’s not the product’s fault. So be open-minded enough to consider what else is going on in your life at the same time too.
Are you experiencing more stress than usual – which can result in acne breakouts, dermatitis or psoriasis? Other factors might include medications you’re taking, hormonal changes, a diet you’re on, a food allergy, or even the weather.
If so, try simplifying your skin care routine – and just use a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. And maintain this until the problem clears up.