Why is my skincare routine not working anymore?

What should I check first?

1. 1Identify what is getting worse: dryness, breakouts or the appearance of fine lines. These need different adjustments, not automatically a stronger product.
2. 2Look for changes around the same time: colder weather, indoor heating, longer hot showers, new skin or hair products, or changes in medicines.
3. 3Check the directions and your consistency. Applying more than directed can cause problems, and stopping an effective anti aging product can mean losing its benefits.
4. 4Simplify before adding more. Keep a suitable cleanser and moisturizer, and introduce only one new anti aging product at a time.

Daytime care should include broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, alongside shade and protective clothing.15

Why did my moisturizer stop working?

Your skin can need more moisture than the same lotion now provides. Cold air, heating, air conditioning, frequent washing and hot showers can increase dryness. Aging also reduces the skin's natural oil production. For dry skin, choose a cream or ointment rather than a lighter lotion. If your face has both dry and oily areas, moisturize the dry areas rather than applying the same amount everywhere.45

Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp after bathing, and use it two to three times daily or as needed for dryness. Keep showers warm rather than hot and limit them to five to ten minutes. Choose a gentle cleanser and avoid fragranced products. Do not exfoliate dry, peeling winter skin: moisturize instead.45

Why did my acne products stop working?

New breakouts can reflect new triggers, including hormonal changes, certain medicines, sweat, humidity and oily skin or hair products. Check recent additions, including cosmetics and creams. A noncomedogenic label means a product is intended not to clog pores, but it can still worsen your acne. Avoid a product you notice makes breakouts worse.25

Wash gently once or twice daily and after exercise, without scrubbing or repeatedly washing. Acne medicines can cause dryness and peeling. For irritation from an over the counter acne medicine, try smaller amounts and use it every other or third day until your skin adjusts. Wait ten to fifteen minutes after washing before applying it. Follow the product's directions, and use a water based or noncomedogenic moisturizer for dryness.2

Can changes in weather affect how skincare works?

Yes. Hot, humid weather increases oil production, while cooler weather and low humidity allow skin moisture to evaporate faster. A lighter moisturizer can suit summer, while a thicker cream can suit winter. Adjust your routine to the season, because the calendar does not consult your bathroom shelf.1

How long should I wait, and when should I get help?

For anti aging care, moisturizer can soften the appearance of fine lines within days, but most products take at least six weeks, sometimes three months. Stop a nonprescription anti aging product that stings, burns or tingles. If a prescribed product causes these sensations, ask your dermatologist before stopping it.3

See a clinician if acne worsens, becomes painful, causes scars or emotional distress, or remains troublesome after several months of self care and over the counter treatment. Get help for dryness that persists despite adjustments, disrupts sleep, or becomes painful, cracked or bleeding.245