Results from Skincare: How Long Does It Take?

Looking to get results from skincare? Patience and knowledge are key. Learn the expectations with us!

Let us guess: You’ve just purchased a new skincare product that you’re super excited about and now you’re searching to figure out how long it will take to see results. Did we nail it?

The truth is, the length of time varies depending on several factors. The ingredients in the product, your age, your skin type, and more can all have an effect on the products you try. Some results from skincare literally happen overnight, where other times it can take up to 12 weeks. We’re breaking down the specific ingredients that may be in your products so you can have a better idea of when you can expect glowing results.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is an ingredient that has many different benefits for skin. It offers an immediate effect for plumper, dewy skin if that’s one of your goals. But, to reap the benefits for fine lines and wrinkles, it can take around 6-8 weeks.

Result time also depends on the molecule size of the hyaluronic acid. Smaller molecules sink deeper into skin, which is better for targeting fine lines and wrinkles. Larger molecules, on the other hand, sit more on the surface of skin, which helps with hydration.

Vitamin C 

There are several different forms of vitamin C that all produce different results. Overall, you can expect vitamin C results from skincare within 6-12 weeks– depending on the source.

Brightening and lightening hyperpigmentation happens more quickly, which means you’ll see results closer to the 6-week range. The targeting of fine lines, wrinkles, and elasticity benefits take a bit longer to come to light. That’s just the name of the beauty game.

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) 

BHA is an ingredient that works to combat texture, redness, and inflammation. It can take around 2-4 weeks to notice a difference in results, but it also depends on how concentrated the formula is.

Natural derivatives of BHA, such as wintergreen and willow bark, may take longer to produce visible change in your skin. The catch, however, is that these derivatives and other lower concentrations are found to be gentler on skin with little dryness and added irritation. Good things take time!

Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHAs)

AHAs do wonders for the texture of skin. You can expect results from skincare products with this ingredient in as little as 1-2 weeks. If clogged pores are your problem, using a product with AHAs can help you find relief in nearly a month’s time.

Some of the other perks of AHAs include age-supporting and tone evening benefits. To see real progress for these benefits, you’ll have to wait 2-6 months. But don’t fret– change will come!

Bakuchiol

Bakuchiol, as well as other plant-based retinols, work to increase the production of collagen to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and clear clogged pores. When clogged pores are reduced, it also helps to clear acne. You can expect an improvement in clogged pores and acne in nearly 6 weeks once you start using a product with bakuchiol.

Again, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, and improving firmness in skin can take longer to achieve. You’ll want to wait at least 12 weeks to determine if the product you’re using is working for you.

Results from skincare can be a daunting process, but one that is worth the wait. The day you plant the seed is not the same day you eat the fruit, and the metaphor works all the same when it comes to skincare. For more information about these ingredients and what you should be looking for when shopping skincare, head to our blog for digestible tips in easy-to-understand skincare lingo.