First and foremost, congratulations on starting your journey to health! Often times, we focus on our body and physique, not realizing health also includes our largest organ. The skin!
Have you invested time, money, and effort into your skincare routine, but still not seeing the results you want? or see on social media? *cough cough TikTok* You're not alone. Many people find themselves in a similar situation, wondering why their skincare routine isn't yielding the expected outcomes. Let's look at a couple key elements that can make or break your results:
Incorrect Product Selection
The skincare market is flooded with a plethora of products, each promising to deliver miraculous results and let's just say a whole lot of fluff! I often tell my mentees and clients, how do you know if you're really working with an ethical brand. Whose claims are actually substantiated in there products? Their delivery mechanisms actually work? the ingredients they claim that are in the product are actually there in the right amount? You really don't, especially with everyone and their mama jumping into dropping a skincare line. Influence is all you need now a days it seems like maybe? Anyways I digress. Not every product is suitable for every skin type, nor made with black folks varying physiological features in mind. Using products that aren't designed for your specific skin state can lead to ineffective results or even exacerbate existing skin issues. For instance, using a moisturizer designed for dry skin on oily skin can lead to excess oil production and breakouts.
An Inconsistent Routine
Consistency is key baby! Especially when it comes to skincare. Using a product once or twice and expecting immediate results is unrealistic....and diluting. Most skincare products require consistent use over several weeks or even months to show noticeable results. If you're not sticking to your skincare routine consistently, this could be why you're not seeing the desired outcomes. When introducing "actives," I always advice my clients of the following normal reactions and not allergies, especially with Retinol: peeling, burning, itching, flaking and redness. Thanks Dr. Obagi!
Overuse of Products
Girl give that cheap stuff a rest! On the flip side, using too many products or overusing a particular product can also be detrimental to your skin health. Especially when the formula is weak. Overloading your skin with multiple products can lead to irritation, dryness, breakouts and just breaking down the natural barrier that is meant to keep all the good stuff in and bad stuff out. Similarly, overusing a product, such as an exfoliant, can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and sensitivity.
Neglecting Sun Protection
It is for this reason, I screen clients for advanced treatments. Hey I am sure you can get your Cosmelan or TCA peel down the way, but how WE do things here is with integrity. Baby your canceling out your results AND investment. No matter how comprehensive your skincare routine is, if you're not protecting your skin from the sun, you're undoing all your hard work. Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging (wrinkles, textural changes etc), hyperpigmentation, and other skin issues. Always incorporate a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your daily routine, regardless of the weather.
Unrealistic Expectations
Lastly, it's essential to set realistic expectations when it comes to skincare. While some products can deliver noticeable results within a few weeks, others, especially those targeting deep wrinkles or severe hyperpigmentation, may take months to show significant improvements. Patience is key in skincare.
Not Considering Internal Factors
Sometimes its time to see a professional or switch! Your skin is a reflection of your overall health, whether you believe it or not. Factors like diet, stress, sleep, and hormonal imbalances can significantly impact your skin's health. We focus on all of these things without medication to create a healthy canvas and sustainable results. If you're not addressing these internal factors, your skincare routine may not yield the desired results you want.
If your skincare routine isn't delivering the results you want, it's worth revisiting your approach. Consider your skin type, the products you're using, your consistency, sun protection, and internal health. Remember, skincare is a journey, not a destination hunny. It's about nurturing your skin and embracing its natural state. If you're still struggling, consider seeking professional support by booking a consultation with us here. We can provide personalized advice based on your unique skin needs, lifestyle, and concerns.