Can skincare products stop working over time?

Can your skin get used to skincare products?

Skin adjusting to a treatment's side effects is different from the treatment losing effectiveness. Acne products often cause dryness during the first two to four weeks, and the skin usually adjusts. Less dryness is not, by itself, a reason to assume an acne product has stopped helping. For moisturizers and cosmetic products aimed at signs of aging, focus first on consistent use and realistic expectations rather than assuming tolerance. Moisturizer traps water in the skin and can soften the appearance of fine lines. Continuing a useful product helps maintain its results; the bottle has not completed its assignment just because you like the result. Creams, gels and lotions cannot reduce every sign of aging. A concern that remains despite treatment can call for a different approach, not another version of the same promise.25

Why is my skincare routine not working anymore?

Before replacing the routine, check what has changed in how you use it and what you are asking it to treat. More products, more frequent application and a higher price are not shortcuts to better results.23

1. 1Check whether you stopped or reduced a product after improvement. Products for signs of aging need continued use to maintain results. After oral acne antibiotics end, continuing topical treatment helps maintain acne control.
2. 2Read the directions again. Using more than directed can cause clogged pores, blotchy skin or excessive dryness. Follow the particular product's instructions rather than increasing the amount to force a result.
3. 3Check for irritation from additions to the routine. Several products for signs of aging used together can irritate skin and make those signs more noticeable. Start with one such product rather than adding several at once.
4. 4Give the treatment enough time. Most products for signs of aging need at least six weeks, sometimes up to three months. Acne improvement can also take weeks or months, depending on the treatment.
5. 5Check daily sun protection if your concern is signs of aging. Use broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin. UV exposure accelerates aging, so a treatment routine does not replace sunscreen.

Effective, affordable skincare products exist, so judge the replacement by its purpose and directions rather than its price tag.3

How long should you wait for results?

Why did my acne treatment stop working?

Acne can flare even after responding well to treatment. Hormonal changes associated with menstrual periods, pregnancy, birth control or stress can trigger acne. Oily cosmetics and hair products, heavy sweating, humidity and certain medicines can also contribute. These are reasons to review what changed around the flare, rather than automatically blaming the acne product. Keep cleansing gentle: scrubbing and repeated washing are not helpful substitutes for treatment. Wash once or twice daily, including after exercise, and avoid greasy cosmetics or creams.4

Antibiotic resistance is a separate issue: bacteria become less susceptible to an antibiotic. Resistance can develop with acne antibiotics, particularly topical antibiotics, and intermittent topical antibiotic use increases the risk. Acne antibiotics should be part of a combination plan with a treatment such as benzoyl peroxide, a topical retinoid or azelaic acid. Have the prescriber review the plan rather than adding medicines yourself. Benzoyl peroxide has no reported bacterial resistance and can reduce resistant acne bacteria. Oral antibiotics control bacteria and inflammation but do not cure acne. Treatment needs regular review, and antibiotic courses should be limited to three months where possible. Switching antibiotics simply to improve effectiveness offers no benefit and can increase resistance; a change because of adverse effects is a different decision.1

How should you use an acne treatment before judging it?

Apply topical acne treatment across the affected areas, not just individual spots, unless the product's directions say otherwise. Use a thin amount on clean, dry skin for treatments intended to stay on. Follow the label for morning or evening use; acne products do not all share one schedule. Benzoyl peroxide is usually used once or twice daily, starting with the lowest strength to assess tolerance. For a gel that stays on, gently clean and dry the skin, then apply a thin layer. For a gel wash, wet the area, wash with a small amount for one to two minutes, then rinse and pat dry. Wash your hands before and afterwards. A wash and a gel that stays on have different jobs, despite sharing an ingredient and an enthusiasm for similar names. Using extra benzoyl peroxide does not make it work faster and increases the risk of side effects.56

When should you stop or get advice?

Stop a cosmetic product that stings, burns or tingles. If a dermatologist prescribed the product, ask whether that reaction is expected before stopping it. Severe irritation from an acne treatment needs medical advice. Before introducing a cosmetic product, apply a small amount to the inner forearm twice daily for four to five days. If there is no redness, itching or other reaction, it is likely safe to try on the face. Even a product labeled "hypoallergenic" needs testing.235

For benzoyl peroxide, speak to a pharmacist or doctor about side effects that bother you or persist. Only combine it with other acne treatments when a pharmacist or doctor approves. If pregnant, check before using it; if breastfeeding, check first and avoid applying it to the breasts. Throat or tongue swelling or difficulty breathing requires emergency help.6

Seek medical review sooner if acne is worsening, causing cysts or scars, or affecting your emotional wellbeing. If cosmetic products still do not deliver the results you want after appropriate use and enough time, a dermatologist can assess the concern and discuss other options.24