How to Tell if Your Skincare Products Are Working

We’ve all been there: you try a new skincare product, and after a few days, you're staring into the mirror, wondering, is this actually doing anything?

Skincare is an investment of both time and money, so it’s natural to want results. But how do you know if a product is actually working or if you just need to be a bit more patient?

Here’s how to get a better understanding of your skincare journey and what signs to look for to know if your products are making a difference.

1. Patience Is Key (And Timing Varies)

When you start using a new product, it’s easy to expect instant results. But real change takes time. Skin typically renews itself about every 28 days, though this process slows as we age.

So, if you’re using a product that claims to smooth, brighten, or boost radiance, give it at least 4 to 6 weeks to see visible improvement.

That said, certain products like cleansers or exfoliants can give immediate results—like softer skin after washing or a more polished complexion post-exfoliation.

But for more transformative benefits (like reducing hyperpigmentation, smoothing fine lines, or evening out skin tone), it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

2. Know What You’re Looking For

When trying new skincare, it’s important to know what results you’re aiming for. Different products target different concerns:

• Hydration: Does your skin feel more supple and plump? Are dry patches improving?

• Texture: Is your skin feeling smoother, and less rough? Is your complexion looking more refined?

• Breakouts: If you’re trying to tackle acne or blemishes, are you seeing fewer pimples over time? (Be mindful of the dreaded “purging” phase where your skin can worsen before it gets better.)

• Anti-Ageing: Are your fine lines softening? Is your skin maintaining its elasticity?

Set realistic expectations based on your skin type and the product’s claims. Sometimes a product might not give you that Instagram-glow overnight, but consistent small improvements are still signs that it’s doing its job.

3. Tracking Progress Can Help

It’s easy to lose track of subtle improvements when you see your face every day. Try snapping a quick photo at the beginning of your skincare journey and then another one a month later to compare.

This will give you a more objective look at how your skin is responding to the new products.

Pay attention to how your skin feels, too. Does it feel calmer, less irritated, or more hydrated? These internal signs can sometimes be more telling than just what’s on the surface.

4. Common Signs That a Product Isn't Working

On the flip side, it’s important to recognise when a product isn’t right for you. Here are a few red flags that it might be time to reevaluate:

• Irritation or Breakouts: Some initial irritation can happen, especially with active ingredients like retinoids or acids, but persistent redness, itching, or breakouts might indicate that your skin is having a bad reaction.

• Dryness or Tightness: If your skin feels uncomfortably tight or dry, the product may be too harsh or stripping.

• No Visible Improvement: If after a few months of use there’s genuinely no change, it could mean the product just isn’t suited for your skin type or concern.

5. Product Combinations That Deliver

When looking for skincare that really works, finding the right combination of products can be a game-changer. Some ingredients complement each other beautifully, enhancing the benefits you get from each.

One powerful combo is a Prebiotic Moisturising Cream paired with a Rose Youth Elixir. Prebiotics support your skin’s natural microbiome, which is essential for keeping it balanced and resilient.

A good prebiotic moisturising cream can help lock in moisture while strengthening your skin barrier. On the other hand, the Rose Youth Elixir, packed with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients, works to restore your skin’s natural glow and smooth out fine lines.

Used together, these products can offer a double dose of hydration and anti-aging benefits, leaving your skin feeling nourished, balanced, and looking radiant.

6. Listen to Your Skin

At the end of the day, no one knows your skin better than you. If something doesn’t feel right—whether that’s irritation, discomfort, or just a sense that your skin isn’t thriving—then it’s okay to make a change.

Skincare is highly individual, and what works wonders for someone else might not suit your skin’s unique needs.

That said, trust in the process. Skincare is about long-term care, not overnight miracles.

Stick with what feels good, stay patient, and give your products time to shine. If you stay consistent and mindful, your skin will thank you in the long run.