If you are new to the skincare game, you may have probably wondered why professionals always say it entails trial-and-error, which is quite costly. The reason behind this is that not all of us have the same skin type and that there’s no one solution to all skin problems.
As such, we need to understand what chemicals we specifically need and after this, you need to create a routine to maintain – but this is easier said than done and it will definitely take a few months before you can really judge a product. However, there are tell-tale signs that you can observe early on to know if your skincare game is doing you more harm than good.
Very Dry Or Oily Skin

Insta_photos/Shutterstock — Dry or oily skin may be because of the products you use
After one month of your routine, you should notice minor changes and if you observe that your skin has become oilier or drier, then that certainly tells something about the products you use. Dermatologist Rebecca Baxt explained that if this happens, it is either the items you bought are not moisturizing enough or prompt an overproduction of oil.
Burning Sensation Upon Application
There’s something off-putting about applying a product that immediately burns. However, some products like retinoids can subtly sting when you first use them.

Fizkes/Shutterstock — If you feel a burning sensation when applying, it is usually a bad sign
Although a sting or tingle may be normal when it comes to some chemicals, you need to decipher when it is harming your skin already. Extreme redness or burning is a clear indication that the products you are using are not suitable for you.
Sad to say, if your skin feels itchy or painful after the application, take it as a sign that you need to ditch the product.
Super Itchy Skin
One of the most obvious signs that you wasted money on a useless product is when you develop rashes or feel itchiness. There’s no other way to do it than to toss the whole tub in the garbage as early as you can and don’t ever reuse it to avoid doing more damage to your skin.
Rashes may be a sign that you are allergic to a component/s in the product and the best way to fix this is to seek a dermatologist’s help to determine how you can proceed.
Breakouts
Some products like hydroxy acids or retinoid prompt breakouts at the start and this is because they promote skin turnover, dermatologist Dejal Shah said. You’ll likely observe that these will pop out in areas where you usually have acne or pimples.

Dragana Gordic/Shutterstock — Breakouts are typically usual with some products
However, if two months after and you’re still seeing breakouts or they are getting worse, say goodbye to the skin products you have.