Knowing When To Cut My Losses

Have you ever test-driven a new skincare product or fad treatment only to wonder how long you should give it a chance before tossing it and moving on to the next thing? The uncertainty about whether or not I’m giving a new product or treatment enough time can be enough to cause me anxiety and doubt about whether or not I’m making the right decisions by my skin and health. But over time, I’ve noticed some patterns in my life that help me to be clear on when to keep going with something new and when it’s time to let it go and try something else instead.

How long do I try a new skincare product?

Usually when I am trying a new treatment for a rash, I will give something a try for around two weeks. What I have consistently noticed is that after about the two-week mark, whatever product or treatment plan I'm trying for my skin will show its potential future outcome for me. For example, if I try something and I generally see my skin improving over the two-week mark, it typically tends to be something that actually helps me to clear my skin completely.

But if by the two-week mark my skin has not improved – or it's actually gotten worse – I find that there's no point continuing for me continuing to try to use the product or treatment if it is already not working for me for that amount of time.

When can I usually tell when a product will work?

Though, I am so sensitive that I can already kind of tell how a product is going to work well or not for me even within the first week typically. If I immediately start to feel a sense of relief even on an energetic level – I would even say at times, an emotional level – with using the product and it gives me a sense of ease and calm, I just know I'm already on a good path to healing.

How do I know when it's time to move on?

If there's uncertainty, anxiety, and, of course, any actual physical irritation or worsening of my skin, then as soon as I see that I don't try to push it or make it work. I've learned to accept that things are what they are. It is what it is - either the product or treatment plan is working or it's not. I can’t dwell or beat myself up about “making the wrong choice.” It’s just another experiment and it's time to move on to another one.

Are others involved in this process?

This entire testing and decision-making process is internal and independent. I usually come to these conclusions on my own without consulting a doctor or a health practitioner because I have learned how to be in touch with myself, my energy, mood, and how my body feels. My experiences with eczema for over 30 years and understanding of holistic health have helped me determine whether or not to keep going in a certain direction with my healing journey.

How has it been for you trying to figure out what works for you and what doesn't? Have you noticed any patterns of experiences, feelings, or physical sensations that help you to know when things are working or not? Please share in the comments down below and let's help each other out!