I have tried skincare products from quite a number of cosmetic brands in the past two years. Some worked very well on my skin where I could see obvious changes – such as Cellnique that solved my whitehead problems and Kose that brightened up my complexion. On the other hand, some showed only slight improvement (e.g. Estee Lauder) and some almost no effect (e.g. SK-II).
While a company can use performance management software to assess the performance of its workforce and business, we don’t have tools or devices at home to evaluate the effect of a particular skin care product on our skin, except through observation with our own eyes. (Unless we are living in a skin research laboratory where there are machines to measure even the smallest pores.)
For me, there are a few things that decide if a product suits my skin, is effective, and makes me want to use it again.
What I see and how I feel about the product at first ‘encounter’
Is it oily or sticky? Does it smell nice? Does my skin feel softer? Is my face glowing with a natural radiant after one application? For instance, products that cause skin to become greasy after just a few hours are definitely not for me.
The effects after using for a couple of weeks
If my pores appeared slightly smaller, fine lines somewhat lesser, skin complexion a little brighter but didn’t get oilier or drier after 2 weeks of use, it is very likely that the product will work for me.
The effects after using for 3 months
If significant changes are observed, e.g. reduced pore size, brighter and softer complexion, not triggering whiteheads or acne, and I like its smell, color, packaging, ease of use …, then I am most likely to replenish the product after finishing the first bottle. (Well, price may also play a role depending on my financial status, hehe.)
How about you? How do you measure your skincare products’ effectiveness? How do you decide if you want to continue using a skincare brand?