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When it comes to upgrading your skincare regimen to include medical-grade skincare products with higher concentrations of active ingredients, consistency and patience are key. The exact amount of time it can take to see noticeable results after starting a new skincare regimen can depend on the type of product and your specific skin concerns, but expect long-game results, not an overnight success.
Even though medical-grade skincare results don’t happen overnight, however, that doesn’t mean they aren’t working. It can take several days, weeks or even months to see your final results. The key is to stay consistent with your new skincare regimen and work with Dr. Koehler and his team to adjust your routine as needed to minimize any side effects like dryness, redness or flaking with certain ingredients.
Below is a general guide on how soon you can expect to see your skincare results with various products.
Moisturizers
Using a new moisturizer can help your skin start to look and feel more hydrated within a few days. This is because high-quality moisturizers work by strengthening your skin’s protective barrier, preventing moisture from escaping and keeping allergens and irritants out. It can take several days for your skin’s barrier to begin to adjust to the extra help it’s getting from your new moisturizer.
Chemical Exfoliants
Chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) help remove dead skin cells, revealing a fresher and more radiant complexion. This process of skin cell turnover can take about a month, so it may take this long to see lasting, noticeable results.
For anti-aging benefits, such as reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving skin texture, it can take several months of regular use to see results.
Acne Treatments
Acne treatment products typically take around 8 weeks to show significant improvements, aligning with the average acne cycle. During this time, your skin may undergo a process called purging. This is when underlying impurities rise to the surface, which can make breakouts look a little worse before they get better. While this can be discouraging, it’s a sign that the treatment is working in the deeper layers of skin to clear acne. Patience and sticking to your treatment plan are essential, as stopping early can prevent you from seeing the full benefits.
Skin-Brightening Ingredients
Ingredients like vitamin C and other antioxidants are commonly used for their skin-brightening properties. These ingredients can help to eliminate dark spots and create a more even skin tone. It generally takes around 2 to 3 months of consistent use to see noticeable skin-brightening results. However, in the meantime, antioxidant skincare ingredients help to keep your skin protected from oxidative stress caused by sun exposure, air pollution and other environmental damage.
Retinoids
Retinoids are excellent anti-aging ingredients that work by promoting skin cell turnover and collagen production. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may need to gradually begin using a retinoid, working up to more frequent use over several weeks or months. Because of this, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months to start seeing anti-aging results from topical retinoids.
Dr. Koehler and his team can help you tailor your retinoid regimen to minimize side effects while maximizing benefits.
Looking for a Customized Skincare Plan?
Achieving the best results with medical-grade skincare requires a personalized approach tailored to your specific skin concerns and goals. At Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Koehler and his experienced team can help design a customized skincare plan that addresses your unique needs. To schedule your consultation, call our Fairhope office at 251-929-7850 or contact us online.
Author: Dr. James Koehler
A board-certified cosmetic surgeon in Fairhope, AL, Dr. James Koehler earned his MD from the University of Alabama and completed several post-doctoral residencies, internships and fellowships. He returned to Alabama to be closer to family and serve patients in the local community with a full range of cosmetic surgery procedures for the face, breast and body.
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