Who hasn't bought a skincare product, was super excited to try it, and later became disappointed when didn't feel any improvement to the skin? We know how frustrating this experience can be, but believe it or not, it is normal. Come see what to do when a skincare product doesn't work on your skin.

WHY DOESN'T A PRODUCT WORK FOR ME?

Your best friend tried and loved it, and everyone on the internet shared incredible stories; why doesn't the product work right when it's your turn? The way a product performs can vary greatly depending on each skin's characteristics and necessities.

The main determining factor of our skin properties is genetics. Many characteristics, such as the tendency for dryness, rosacea, melasma, and acne, come from a genetic predisposition. It means that, naturally, everyone's skin is unique, and what works for someone doesn't necessarily work for another.

Furthermore, a person living in dry, cold, windy weather is more likely to struggle with skin redness, dryness, and desquamation than a person living in a city with hot weather year-round. The latter will have its skin characteristics influenced by direct contact with sunlight and sweat production, making them naturally more inclined to have excessive oiliness. These two people will need very different skincare routines and products since they have distinctive characteristics and needs influenced by their genetics and climate conditions.

Besides the weather, other factors directly influence how our skin behaves, like hormone production, diet, daily routine, water intake, consumption of certain medications, etc.

ALLERGIES AND IRRITATION

Another factor that can influence the way a product works on your skin is the allergic potential. You may have bought a product specially for your skin's characteristics, but signs like itchiness, irritation, or even breakouts appear. In this case, you are probably allergic to some of the formula's components. If you suspect you're experiencing this, suspend the use of the cosmetic (or cosmetics) and schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to understand what could have triggered this reaction.

I ONLY USE NATURAL AND VEGAN SKINCARE. WHY DID I STILL HAVE A SKIN REACTION?

This is one of the most common questions in our community here at Simple. Consider that just because a product is natural and vegan doesn't mean it's hypoallergenic. In the same way, some people are allergic to certain foods, like strawberries and oranges – which are obviously also natural and vegan –, some people can have allergic reactions when in contact with natural cosmetic ingredients.

WHAT DO I DO WHEN A PRODUCT DOESN'T WORK FOR ME?

Here it is important to emphasize something we always say: before introducing any products into your skincare routine, talk to a dermatologist so you understand your skin's characteristics and needs, and then find a specific treatment for you.

If you've already tried a skincare product, had an allergic reaction, or simply didn't have a positive experience, the first step is to suspend the use. Following that, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to investigate why your skin didn't adapt to it and which active ingredients will fit you better.

TIPS FOR GETTING IT RIGHT WHEN CHOOSING YOUR SKINCARE PRODUCTS

While there is no way to predict if a cosmetic will work on your skin, there are steps to improve your chances.

1. IDENTIFY YOUR SKIN TYPE

Does your skin tend to become overly shiny with blackheads and breakouts? Then your skin is probably oily. If this oiliness is concentrated on the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), but there is dryness or desquamation on your cheeks, your skin may be combination. Wrinkles and flaccid skin are indications of mature skin, and so forth. Once you know your skin type, it becomes easier to choose products.

My skin is mature, oily, and with dark spots. What should I do? This is super normal! Our skin is rarely strict to only one classification. The names are supposed to help you find suitable products according to the formulas' benefits. 

2. TRY THE PRODUCT FIRST

If you buy products in a physical store, try them directly on your skin with the testers the store supplies. If the purchase is online, as soon as the cosmetic arrives at your house, apply it to a small area of your skin before applying it to the entire face. It will help you notice how the product interacts with your skin and quickly identify possible allergic reactions.

3. ADAPTATION PERIOD

Some products formulated with acid require an adaptation period until your skin is used to it. During the first weeks, it is essential you go through the process of skin adaptation, which could be as follows:

1. Start with a few drops (1 or 2) every other day – for 3 days;
2. After that, increase the number of drops, but continue to apply every other day – for 3 more days;
3. Subsequently, it's time to analyze how your skin has adapted to the product and if there is a need for daily use. If so, it's time to use your new product daily or keep it every other day.

SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THESE TIPS? TELL US IN THE COMMENT SECTION!