6 Reasons Why Your Skincare Routine May No Longer Be Working

If your exorbitantly-priced, potent formulas are no longer delivering on the promise of supple, spotless skin, you've got a problem at hand. And, more often than not, not one but an array of reasons may be responsible for this. But what if we were to tell you that it's your skincare routine that may not be working for you anymore. 

"The skin isn't known to develop immunity to products. That said, after some time, you may stop noticing any significant change and/or improvement on the skin. While there's no one reason you can pinpoint, it may be the result of a combination of factors," explains Dr Jaishree Sharad, a Mumbai-based Dermatologist. 

"In such a scenario, it is important to take a moment and examine the skincare regime you are following. Doing so can help determine the root cause, and you can tweak your routine accordingly," adds Dr Madhu Chopra, Cosmetologist and Managing Director, Studio Aesthetique. 

Below, the two beauty experts elucidate why—and how—your skincare regime may be falling short. 

A Complex Case of Habituation 

Skin habituation can work in two ways; your skin is adapted to the exposure of those products, or you've gotten used to the results and seem to have forgotten what your skin used to be before you began using them. If it is the first case, Dr Madhu Chopra suggests that you replace a product at a time to figure out what is no longer working. "Be consistent with your skincare routine for at least a few weeks to test how well it’s working for you. For optimal results, wait around for a few months," she says. Dr Jaishree further explains, "When you use a new product, your skin will initially show results in the form of radiance or glow. After a while, this apparent change will reach a plateau. Hence, while your routine may still be benefitting your skin, it may not yield overt effects, causing you to believe that it's no longer working."

Product Expiry and Storage

Have your beauty products crossed their expiration date? If yes, while they may not stop working entirely, they may end up having adverse effects on your skin—rashes, skin allergies, irritation, redness, inflammation, the works. Dr Madhu adds that specific ingredients in products may become less effective over time if not stored correctly. Thereby, one must avoid repeated opening and closing of lids and shouldn't leave bottles in humid spaces. "Regularly clean applicators, brushes, sponges, and other tools to avoid contamination of the products," recommends Dr Jaishree. Store products in a cool, dry place, and close them immediately after use.

Hormonal Changes and/or Imbalance

Any drastic lifestyle changes, consumption of an unhealthy diet, heightened stress, and other underlying medical concerns or medication may trigger hormonal changes in the body. These, in turn, can lead to changes in your skin texture. Your skin may start acting out, irrespective of the products that you apply to keep the beauty woes in check. "If you find yourself ingesting a lot more alcohol, drinking lesser water, excessive smoking, or spending prolonged periods under the sun, the products may not work as effectively. You must begin by altering your lifestyle," Dr Jaishree puts forth. 

Environmental Stressors

"Climate change plays a vital role when it comes to your skin concerns. Based on the weather conditions, one must eliminate/add products to their daily routine. For instance, heavyweight, hydrating products and creams that one may opt for during winters may feel too heavy during the summer. Hence, applying lightweight, breathable products amidst the heat and humidity is preferable," informs Dr Madhu. These climatic alterations may cause changes in your skin, leading you to believe that your products are no longer working.

Right Products, Wrong Application

"Leave adequate time between product applications to allow for it to fully absorb into your skin. In addition, you must use the right products in the right proportions and combinations. Consult your dermatologist on how to use your products correctly," says Dr Madhu. "The continuous use of serums and creams can exhaust your skin. Sometimes, your skin just needs a breather, so leave it alone for a while. Instead of following a complex skincare routine, simply cleanse, moisturise, and religiously apply sunscreen. Take a step back to re-evaluate your routine," she adds.

Consistency is Key

You may begin your skincare routine with gusto, following every step to the tee. But let's get real, after seeing visible results, one often become complacent. "Your skin requires lifetime maintenance. Therefore, you must be consistent and must comply with your skin needs. For instance, when you use a chemical exfoliant—such as an Alpha Hydroxy serum or retinol—the dead skin sheds off your skin. And, over time, with the decline in noticeable dead skin, you may become complacent," explains Dr Jaishree.