Finding the perfect skincare routine is an endless cycle of trial and error, success and disappointment — and we won’t even talk about how much money is spent during that search.
So when you finally find a good routine with the best products that work for your skin, you want to hang on to it. But, while your favorite products may work for a time, the fact is they may not work forever. Whether it’s due to age, a change of seasons, or hormones, your skincare routine may need an update from time to time. Not sure how to tell if you need an update? Ahead, we’ll take a look at some telltale signs that your skincare routine needs an update.
Your Skin Looks Dull And Tired
Dull, tired skin is probably the number one indicator that you need to refresh your skincare routine. If your favorite products used to impart a healthy glow but now leave your skin looking a little lackluster, the sun may have set on their usefulness. If you have that a product isn’t doing what you want it to do, it may be a good time to switch things up and try something new.
You’ve Been Using The Same Products Since Your Teen Years
The products that worked in your 20s may not do your skin any justice in your 30s and 40s. In your younger years, for example, acne may have been a concern. As the years tick by, you probably stuck with those products because they worked, and there was no reason to mess with a good thing. While these items may be doing a good job of keeping your acne at bay, they’re probably not formulated to tackle dry skin, fine lines and wrinkles, or other issues that come with age. It’s important to understand that your skin is constantly changing as you grow older, so you may need to periodically reassess your skincare routine to keep up with those changing needs.
You’re Using Too Many Products
The great thing about skincare is that there are millions upon millions of products on the market that can tackle all sorts of issues. From dry skin to oily skin, and sensitive skin to fine lines and wrinkles, you’ll probably have little trouble finding something that’s effective for your particular skincare concern. The issue, however, arises when you continually add new products to your routine without assessing whether the others are really working. It’s incredibly easy to overcomplicate your skincare routine, but the truth is it doesn’t have to be complicated. Most skin care experts agree that 3-4 skincare products should be plenty—anything beyond that, you may want to rethink your routine.
You Don’t Change Your Products Between Seasons
While it’s tempting (and certainly easier) to stick to the same routine year-round, it’s really not what’s best for your skin. As the seasons change, so do the temperatures and humidity levels in the air. In turn, this can affect your skin. Most of us notice drier skin in the winter and ramped up oil production in the summertime. So it begs the question, why would you use the same moisturizer in the winter and summer months? Your skin needs plenty of deep hydration in the colder months and a lighter touch in the spring and summer. To keep your skin looking and feeling its best, you may want to swap out your skincare products between seasons.
New Skin Issues Are Appearing
If you’re noticing new breakouts or dry patches, it may be a good idea to reexamine your skincare routine. Concerns like these are clear signs that your skincare needs are changing, but your favorite products are failing to stay in step. Your moisturizer might be the best you’ve tried so far, but if it’s not addressing new skincare issues as they arise, you’ll be better off doing a little research to find one that does.
Breaking up is hard to do, but when your favorite skincare products aren’t doing what you need them to do, it’s time for a change. When you take a moment to really assess your skin, you may find a little room for improvement.
