Does Your Skin Get Used to Skincare Ingredients?
A question I often hear from clients is: “If I use the same products for a long time, will my skin get used to them?” As an esthetician in NYC, I can assure you this is one of the biggest skincare myths. Here’s the truth about product efficacy, skin adaptation, and how to keep your routine effective.
The Myth
Many people believe that skin builds a “tolerance” to active ingredients, the same way your body might adjust to caffeine or medication. The fear is that if you use a product for too long, it will somehow become less effective.
The Truth
Your skin doesn’t “get used to” ingredients in a way that makes them stop working. The science behind skincare shows that effective ingredients, like vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide, and peptides, continue to deliver benefits with consistent use. In fact, consistency is exactly what helps you see long-term results.
Why It Feels Like Products Stop Working
There are a few reasons it might seem like your products aren’t doing as much anymore:
You’ve reached a plateau. If your skin improved when you first started using the product, the results may feel less dramatic once your skin is healthier and more balanced.
Your skin goals have changed. Products that worked for acne in your 20s may not be enough for anti-aging in your 30s or 40s.
Environmental and lifestyle factors. Stress, diet, hormones, seasons, and sun exposure can all change how your skin behaves.
Incorrect product strength. Sometimes you simply need to adjust to a higher strength (like with retinoids) or layer products differently.
Ingredients That Thrive on Consistency
Vitamin C: Best used daily for antioxidant protection and collagen support.
Retinoids: Most effective with consistent, ideally daily use (once your skin adapts).
Niacinamide: Gentle enough for daily use and helps with barrier repair and redness.
Peptides & Hydrators: Support skin health long-term with no need for breaks.
My Professional Take
Instead of worrying about your skin “getting used to” products, think about your routine as evolving with your skin. Sometimes that means increasing frequency or strength, and sometimes it means adding new products as your goals shift.
✨ The bottom line: effective skincare ingredients don’t stop working. Your skin just changes over time. That’s why personalized guidance matters more than chasing trends.
Ensure your skincare products and professional treatments deliver results with guidance from Millie Esthetics, your trusted esthetician in NYC. From custom facials to advanced treatments, we help your skin stay healthy and radiant. Book your NYC facial today.