How Do I Know If My Skincare Routine Is Working

Choosing the right skincare routine can be a game-changer for your complexion, but knowing whether your products are actually effective can be challenging. With an abundance of products on the market, it's essential to understand the signs that indicate your regimen is right for you. Here’s a guide to help you determine if your products are truly benefiting your skin and help you answer “How do I know if my skincare routine is working?” We’ll outline what you can expect along your skincare journey and just know we’ll be here every step of the way.

Before we dive in, let’s get the most important thing out of the way. A good, consistent skincare regimen is essential if you want to see results. Below are the basics you’ll want as the foundation for any great skincare routine.

Cleanser: Cleansing your skin correctly is what paves the way for the rest of your skincare products to reach their full potential; well-cleansed skin drinks up more nutrients! Check out tips on choosing the best cleanser for your skin type along with proper cleansing tips here.

Moisturizer: A proper moisturizer is essential for everyone, whether you have dry or oily skin. It's a must to keep your barrier healthy and hydrated and in fact, not hydrating properly can make oily skin overproduce oil. From lightweight gels to heavy creams, there are plenty of options to choose from. Learn more about the different types of moisturizers here.

SPF: SPF is a vital step in your regimen and should be worn daily, not just when you’re in the sun. It’s important to choose something you’ll enjoy wearing every day. See how you can choose the best sunscreen for your skin type here.

Exfoliation: This is an added step to the basics, but a necessary one. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and surface debris that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. It also promotes better product absorption to ensure you get the most out of your routine. Learn more about the different types of exfoliation here. For more tips on building a basic routine, check out our blog.

One of the most noticeable signs that your skincare routine is working is an improvement in skin texture and tone. You should see a reduction in rough patches, dry spots, and an overall smoother surface. Additionally, your skin tone should appear more even, with less redness, blotchiness, or discoloration. These changes can take a few weeks to become evident, so patience is key.

If you struggle with acne or frequent breakouts, an effective skincare routine should result in fewer blemishes and pimples over time. While you may experience an initial "purging" phase where breakouts seem to worsen as your skin adjusts to new products, this should subside within a few weeks. Eventually, you should see a decrease in the frequency and severity of breakouts. Pimples can take 3 weeks to form under the skin, so patience is key. Looking for additional help in clearing your skin? Sign up for our personalized Acne Coaching program.

Hydrated skin = healthy skin. If you're looking to boost hydration, incorporate humectants and lipids such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. Combined, these ingredients help pull moisture into the skin and build up the barrier to prevent Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) . Improved hydration can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and give your skin a more youthful, radiant look.

For those targeting visible signs of aging, effective skincare should lead to a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ingredients like retinoids, peptides, and antioxidants work to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity over time. While results may not be immediate, consistent use should yield noticeable improvements within a few months.

If you have oily or combination skin, a well-tailored skincare routine should help regulate oil production. Effective products can reduce excess shine, minimize the appearance of enlarged pores, and keep your skin feeling balanced. Conversely, if you have dry skin, you should notice less flakiness and tightness as your skin becomes more adequately hydrated and balanced.

Ultimately, one of the best indicators of successful skincare is a healthy, radiant glow. Your skin should look and feel vibrant, with a natural luminosity that comes from within. This glow is a sign that your skin barrier is healthy and functioning properly, thanks to the right balance of hydration, exfoliation, and nourishment from your skincare products.

By understanding these signs and being mindful of your skin’s response, you can confidently assess whether your skincare routine is truly working and make adjustments as needed to achieve your best skin ever. Need help assessing your progress? Reach out for a free skincare checkup , and our licensed estheticians will optimize your routine for the best results.