Signs your moisturizer is not working often show up in subtle ways before they become obvious skin problems
A moisturizer is usually the second step if you have a basic 3 step skincare routine or at the last steps if you use lightweight serums before going in with your moisturizer in a minimal skincare routine that is used to target various skin concerns
The basic work of a face moisturizer is;
- Hydrate the skin
- Strengthen the skin barrier
- Retain moisture on the skin
Other face moisturizers are formulated to target common skin concerns hence they help in;
- Providing anti-aging effects
- Soothe and calm sensitive skin
- Reduce acne
- Reduce hyperpigmentation
Some formulas don’t always provide the claimed benefit to the skin hence you need to look at these signs when applying your moisturizer
Understanding these early signs will help you avoid wasting products, long-term irritation and worsening your existing skin condition

5 Signs Your Moisturizer Is Not Working
1. Face Burns or Stings
If you have an uncompromised skin barrier your moisturizer should never burn or sting
A burning sensation indicates;
- Fragranced product
- Harsh ingredients or formula in the moisturizer
- Incompatible ingredients in the product
When a moisturizer is wrong formulated it will never play its role on the skin and will worsen existing conditions
If you have a broken skin barrier, treat it first with hydrating ingredients like; ceramides before purchasing skincare products because even natural skincare products will irritate your skin if you have a damaged barrier
2. Breakouts
A moisturizer causing breakouts or worsening existing acne needs to be dumped immediately
How do you know if your new moisturizer causing that?
- Appearance of acne shortly after switching products
- Small bumps on the skin
- Frequent cheek and chin breakouts
This means that the product is too heavy for your skin, clogging your pores or disrupting your skin’s balance.
3. Skin Still Looks Dull
This means that hydration is not reaching the deeper layers of the skin
A hydrating moisturizer usually gives you a natural glow and get rid of your fine lines especially for dark skin individuals
If your skin still looks dulls and tired with consistent use then you need to switch your moisturizer
4. Tight Skin
If your skin feels tight after applying then there is a lack of enough moisturizing ingredients on the product
Dry patches and peeling continue coming back and you need to continue reapplying your moisturizer 3-4 times in a day means that there is insufficient moisture retention by your face cream
Dry skin girlies need to pick a product containing enough occlusive, humectants and emollients. These will work together to keep the skin supple and hydrated.
5. Skin Condition Isn’t Improving
After consistent use of 4 weeks of a moisturizer and the skin is not improving, you need to stop use.
The skin concern not improving and you see no changes whatsoever you need to drop the product. Sensitivity is still the same? Drop the product
What to Use Instead
Go and find a new moisturizer that;
- Matches your skin type
- Supports skin barrier
- Works well in your climate
- Is formulated with humectants, occlusive and emollients
Conclusion
Finding a good moisturizer for oily, combination and sensitive skin can be a challenging task. Look at the ingredients on the bottle and check whether it contains the necessary ingredients to hydrate the skin while not clogging your pores
For dry skin girlies, look for ingredients that will effectively moisturize your skin for a full day without the need to keep on reapplying several times during the day
When using a new product check for the signs mentioned above to prevent further damage on your face. If a moisturizer is working it needs to calm, soothe, hydrate and feel comfortable on the face
Listening and understanding these early signs will save you time, money and long-term skin damage.
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