Why Your Skincare Might Not Be Working.

Skincare can feel frustrating at times. You invest in high-quality products, follow a consistent routine, and yet, your skin isn’t improving—or worse, it’s breaking out. The truth is, there are many reasons why your skincare might not be delivering results, ranging from using the wrong products to underlying health issues.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top reasons your skincare might not be working, share science-backed insights, and recommend effective solutions to help you achieve your skin goals.

1. You’re Not Using the Right Products for Your Skin Type. 

Using products unsuited to your skin type is a common mistake that can cause irritation, breakouts, or dryness. For example, heavy moisturisers can clog pores if you have oily skin, while harsh cleansers can worsen dryness.

Science Says:

Research published in Dermatology and Therapy shows that tailoring your skincare routine to your skin type—whether oily, dry, sensitive, or combination—is essential to maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

What to Do:

For Oily Skin: 

Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic products like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Foaming Gel or Aspect Jungle Brew Serum to control oil and prevent clogged pores.

For Dry Skin: 

Hydrate with rich formulations like Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Lotion or Aspect  Hydrating Serum.

For Sensitive Skin: 

Use calming, fragrance-free options like Medik8 Calmwise Soothing Cleanser to reduce irritation.

2. You’re Overusing or Underusing Products. 

Consistency is crucial, but overusing or underusing skincare products can prevent you from seeing results. For instance, frequent exfoliation or retinoid use can damage your skin, while infrequent use may not deliver noticeable changes.

Science Says:

Over-exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier, causing irritation and water loss. Studies also confirm that active ingredients like retinol need consistent use over weeks or months to show visible results.

What to Do:

Exfoliate Smartly: 

Stick to 2-3 times per week using products like Alpha-H Liquid Gold or Mesoestetic Glycolic Acid + E Facial Gel.

Introduce Retinoids Gradually: 

Start with gentle formulations like Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3, applying 2-3 times a week, and increase frequency slowly.

Follow Instructions: 

Always read product labels and consult a professional if you’re unsure.

3. Your Skin Barrier is Damaged.

A damaged skin barrier can render even the best skincare products ineffective. Signs of a compromised barrier include redness, irritation, and heightened sensitivity.

Science Says:

The skin barrier plays a vital role in locking in moisture and keeping irritants out. Damage from over-exfoliation, harsh products, or environmental stressors can lead to dryness, acne, and inflammation.

What to Do:

Repair with Barrier Support: 

Use products like iS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion or Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 to nourish and strengthen your skin.

Switch to Enzyme Exfoliants: 

Choose gentle options like Aspect Fruit Enzyme Mask, which exfoliates without damaging the barrier.

Soothe Irritation: 

Apply calming creams like O Cosmedics Comfort Cream to reduce redness and inflammation.

4. You’re Not Applying Products in the Right Order. 

The sequence in which you apply skincare products affects how well they’re absorbed and how effectively they work.

Science Says:

Experts recommend applying products from thinnest to thickest consistency. This ensures lightweight serums penetrate deeply before heavier creams seal in moisture.

What to Do:

• Morning Routine: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturiser → Sunscreen.
• Evening Routine: Cleanser → Treatment → Moisturiser.

Example Routine:

Cleanser:

• Aspect Gentle Clean Facial Cleanser

Serum:

• Skinceuticals C E Ferulic (AM) or Mesoestetic Hydravital Factor K (PM)

Moisturiser:

• Ultraceuticals Ultra Moisturiser Cream

Sunscreen:

• Aspect Sun Hydrating Face SPF 50+

5. You’re Expecting Overnight Results.

Skincare takes time, especially when using active ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, or Vitamin C. Expecting instant transformations can lead to frustration.

What’s Normal When Starting New Products?

Purging: 

Active ingredients that increase cell turnover (e.g., retinoids or AHAs) may cause temporary breakouts as clogged pores clear out. This typically lasts 4-6 weeks.

Dryness or Peeling: 

Retinoids and acids can cause temporary dryness or flaking. To counteract this, pair them with hydrating products like Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2.

Redness or Sensitivity: 

Mild tingling or redness is normal, but severe irritation signals the product may be too strong for your skin.

What to Do:

• Introduce products gradually (2-3 times per week initially).
• Pair actives with hydration, such as Ultraceuticals Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum.
• Be patient. Results from actives typically take 4-12 weeks to appear.

6. Your Lifestyle is Undermining Your Skincare. 

Skincare can only do so much if lifestyle factors like poor diet, dehydration, or stress are affecting your skin.

Science Says:

Studies reveal that diets high in sugar and processed foods can worsen acne, while chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, which triggers inflammation and oil production.

What to Do:

Improve Your Diet:

Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods and omega-3s. Supplements like Vida Glow Natural Marine Collagen or The Beauty Chef Glow Inner Beauty Powder can also support skin health.

Stay Hydrated:

Drink at least 2 liters of water daily.

Manage Stress. 

Use light therapy devices like the OmniLux Contour Face Mask, or practice mindfulness to reduce inflammation.

7. You May Have an Underlying Skin or Health Condition. 

Persistent skin issues like redness, acne, or irritation could point to underlying conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or hormonal imbalances (e.g., PCOS).

What to Do:

Seek Professional Advice:

If your skin doesn’t improve despite using high-quality products, consult a dermatologist, GP, or dermal clinician or dermal therapist.

Consider Advanced Treatments:

Professionals may recommend options like LED therapy (e.g., LightStim), enzyme peels, or tailored skincare regimens.

Skincare That Works for You.  

If your skincare isn’t working, it’s time to re-evaluate your routine, products, and lifestyle. By choosing the right products for your skin type, applying them correctly, and addressing external factors, you can achieve healthier, more radiant skin.

Commit to consistency, patience, and a holistic approach to unlock the true potential of your skincare routine.