The Truth about Skincare Ingredients: When Will I See Results?

Flawless skin does not happen overnight. The time it takes for you to see skincare results may vary significantly from person to person. Many factors including your diet and lifestyle may affect results.

To help you set realistic expectations, we look at the average time it takes for common skincare ingredients to work.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs are a group of plant and animal-derived acids. They are often present in serums, toners, and creams due to their powerful exfoliating properties. Like laser skin tightening treatments, AHAs promote the production of collagen and elastic. Continued use of AHAs can help improve skin health and appearance by reducing dead skin cells and diminishing the size of enlarged pores.

Improvements in radiance and skin texture may appear after several days of use . However, if your goal is to reduce fine lines or correct hyperpigmentation, you may have to wait at least eight to 12 weeks for noticeable results. Discolorations may start fading within a month of use while new collagen and elastin may start to form in the next two to six months. At this point, your skin may look firmer and smoother .

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant used to treat different skin concerns including acne scars, fine lines, and general dullness. Its ability to protect the skin from free radical damage starts as soon as the product is applied. As for its brightening effects, expect four to 12 weeks of consistent use for maximum results.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide treats and prevents inflammatory acne by killing bacteria that settled in pores underneath the skin. It also frees pores of excess sebum and dead skin cells.

One can see  improvements in acne reduction and redness within six to eight weeks of consistent product application. This product may bleach towels or clothes so it is important to ensure it is completely rinsed off if using it as a cleanser.

Retinol (Vitamin A)

Often used in anti-aging products, Retinol helps boost the production of collagen and molecules that drive skin cell turnover, reducing discoloration, acne, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Since retinol largely works within cells, it can take a while for results to appear. Expect the benefits of skin turnover to manifest within four to 12 weeks and the effects of collagen production to appear around eight to 12 weeks.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid helps reduce fine lines and alleviate dryness by retaining moisture to the surface of your skin. It can be found in various skincare products, from creams and serums to sheet masks and injectables.

Products containing hyaluronic acid can hydrate your skin within an hour. They are known to provide instant brightening and skin-plumping effects, too.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a powerful exfoliant that reduces extra oil build-up, making it an effective antidote for acne and future breakouts. It penetrates deeply into your skin and dissolves dead skin cells clogging your pores. With consistent use, you might notice smoother and brighter skin in as early as six to 12 weeks.

Achieve brighter, younger-looking skin

Proper skincare takes time. Sometimes, the lack of results may stem from incorrect product application or lack of sun protection. Consulting with an experienced dermatologist can help you get the results you want at a reasonable timeline.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Saami and get tailored solutions for healthier skin.