When old products are not working anymore or skin concerns continue to arise and persist, it may be the time to make a change. Switching up your skincare products can be exciting, but also intimidating and confusing. The goal, of course, is to see improvements in your skin while reducing the risk of irritation and other side effects. 

Continue reading as we share a few tips on how to introduce new skincare products to get the outcome you deserve. 

Conduct a patch test first

Before applying any product all over your face or targeted areas, do a patch test first. This is to find out how your body reacts and determine if your skin is compatible with the new formula. Patch testing allows you to monitor your skin for any negative reactions and avoid further side effects.

Here’s how to conduct a patch test:

1. Cleanse the area
2. Apply a small amount of the product (can be behind the ear, on your wrist, or inside your forearm).
3. Leave the product undisturbed or as long as you would use it. 
4. Monitor your skin for up to 48 hours or check the area for any signs of inflammation or allergic reactions. 

If there are no adverse reactions, the product is likely safe for your skin. If you, however, notice skin irritation or allergic reaction on the tested areas, avoid using the product altogether. 

Introduce only one product at a time

It can be tempting to try all the new products you have to see the results on your skin. The bad news is applying multiple products at a time makes it harder to monitor your progress or know which one is actually working or causing a reaction. The right approach is to only introduce one new product at a time and see how it goes.

Follow the manufacturer’s directions for use

Always read the label and caution before using any new formula. It is worth noting that some ingredients work against other formulas, and there are products that must be used specifically day or night to get the best possible results. Also, don’t forget to apply the recommended amount, and make sure not to go overboard in an attempt to see immediate results. 

Know the difference between purging and regular breakouts

When using new products, it is normal to have an adjustment period where you may have pimples or small white and red bumps. It is important to know if what you’re experiencing is purging or breakouts and what you should do to take care of your skin.

• Purging – occurs in areas where you usually break out, but usually disappear faster than normal pimples. Trying new ingredients can speed up skin renewal, which then triggers purging and causes hidden pimples to surface or appear faster than usual. 
• Breakout – occurs in areas where you don’t usually break out and typically take several days to appear, mature, and heal. Using formulas with active ingredients too quickly can lead to dryness, redness, and peeling, which may then trigger breakouts. 

If you experience purging or breakouts, make sure not to pick or pop your blemishes. Doing so prolongs the healing process and increases the risk of scarring. You may also want to stop using harsh products or those that can excessively dry out skin, such as exfoliating acids. 

Layer your skincare products in the right order

To ensure the efficacy of products in your regimen, follow the correct order while layering your skin care. The general recommendation is to apply from thinnest to thickest to promote better product absorption. Start with your face cleanser and finish with your serum or moisturizer.

Here’s a guideline of the right order:

1. Cleanser 
2. Toner
3. Serums
4. Eye cream
5. Spot treatment
6. Moisturizer
7. Retinol (at night)
8. Sunscreen (in the morning)

Do take note that you don’t need a 10-step skincare routine. You can keep it basic or simple with a cleanser, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. There are also benefits to using fewer products, one of which is reducing your risk of irritation and adverse reactions. You can, of course, choose to add more products to target specific concerns. 

Be patient and consistent

It takes time for products to deliver results and factors like cell turnover and the type of product you use can affect the timeline. It is common for many face serums and moisturizers to show faster results, while anti-aging and acne treatments take a bit longer to exhibit visible improvements. It pays to be patient and consistent. 

Generally, it takes about four to six weeks of regular use to see changes. Some can even take months to show visible improvements, so you need to use it regularly for quite some time. And as previously mentioned, it is important not to introduce different products at once to give your new formula a chance to work effectively. 

For further reading: How to Stay Consistent with Your Skincare Routine

How Dr. Sylvia Skin Care can help

Dr. Sylvia Skin Care cares about what you put into your skin. This is why we provide an intensive medical-grade collection that delivers multi-layer fortification to your skin.  Our formulas promote skin renewal, recovery, and protection with clinically tested ingredients backed by science.

If you’re looking to level up your skincare regimen, here are a few products worth checking out: 

• Sensitive Cleanser with Aloe Leaf Water – is formulated with soothing ingredients and gentle enough for dry, sensitive, and rosacea-prone skin. It contains aloe leaf water that hydrates and soothes the skin.
• Purifying Toner with Hazel & White Willow – effectively exfoliates dead skin cells while balancing oil production. It gently cleanses the skin and helps fight oiliness, leaving the skin refined and smooth.
• 20% Vitamin C with Ferulic Acid – offers protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals. It can reduce oxidative stress, potentially improve signs of aging, and help rejuvenate your skin for a brighter complexion over time.
• Apple Stem Cell Serum – helps stimulate collagen and elastin production, activates skin cell regeneration, and locks in moisture. It targets premature aging and fine lines, and helps reverse environmental damage, which then promotes a youthful complexion. 
• Hydra Pro with Moisture Lock Complex – is designed to hydrate and nourish your skin without leaving any oily residue. It helps to soothe and heal your skin, leaving it looking and feeling healthy and radiant. 
• Sunshield SPF 45 – provides broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. It also helps moisturize and soothe the skin, reducing redness and irritation. 

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