The Effect on the Face: When Cosmetic Ingredients Start to Work?

While cosmetics are enriched with valuable ingredients, user reviews often express frustration like “Used it, didn’t see any effect” or “Applied the cream three times, no visible results.” The key to avoiding such sentiments lies in patience. Most ingredient effects are gradual and cumulative. In this article, we will delve into when to anticipate results from specific ingredients and the guidelines to ensure their efficacy.

Vitamin C

A prominent skincare ingredient, Vitamin C addresses renewal, vitaminization, pigmentation elimination, and catalyzing collagen production. Some products are suitable for year-round use due to their safe low concentration. If the concentration exceeds 15% (typically around 20%), use such products in a 30-day course without skipping a day. High-concentration products have contraindications, including rosacea, acne flare-ups, wounds, and scratches. They are not recommended for use in spring and summer, but visible results should manifest within a month.

Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen

Hyaluronic acid acts swiftly, providing instant moisturization, peaking an hour after application, with almost no contraindications. Please read our article about the types of hyaluronic acid here.
Collagen’s effects are not as rapid; you’ll experience immediate hydration and a slight increase in firmness. The cumulative effect and catalyst for collagen production occur after a month. The recommended intake scheme is 3-3: use for three months, then take a three-month break. Combining it with hyaluronic acid proves most beneficial.

Ceramides

Ceramides act as a savior for stressed, damaged, and dehydrated skin, irrespective of its dry or oily nature. The best results are achieved in winter when combined with vitamin C. Immediate effects are noticeable, but positive changes are expected after 3-4 weeks of regular use.

Peptides

Peptides, small protein chains, are both beneficial and effective. They program cells to perform specific functions, such as producing more collagen. Cosmetic products with peptides yield rapid effects due to their small chain size, but significant skin changes may take a couple of months.
We have already written about peptides in this article, telling you about their types and purposes.

Guidelines for use include combining with acids for enhanced effects, using in courses (two months of use, one month break), and considering changing both the product and accompanying skincare items. Avoid using peptides if you have facial malignancies, diabetes, or psoriasis.