How Long Do Your Serums Take to Work?

by Nancy Pham

If you're investing in quality skincare like Ultraceuticals, it's only natural to wonder: how long until I see results? Serums are the powerhouse of any skincare routine, packed with active ingredients that target concerns like dehydration, dullness, pigmentation and ageing. But they don’t work overnight, consistency and patience are key.

Let’s break down how long it takes for popular serums to show visible results, especially when using advanced formulas from Ultraceuticals.

 

Hyaluronic Acid – Instant Hydration, Long-Term Plumpness

Found in: Ultraceuticals Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a hydration hero that attracts and holds water in the skin. The Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum is also boosted with Provitamin B5 to further strengthen the skin barrier.

How long until you see results?

  • Immediately: You’ll notice your skin feels more hydrated and plump after the first use.

  • 2–4 weeks: With consistent use, your skin will look smoother, dewier and feel more balanced.

Best for: Dry, dehydrated, or sensitised skin in need of a moisture boost.

 

AHAs – Radiance and Resurfacing

Found in: Ultraceuticals Ultra Brightening Serum & Ultra A Skin Perfecting Serum Mild

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (like Lactic and Citric Acid) gently exfoliate the skin to promote cell turnover and a brighter complexion.

How long until you see results?

  • 2 weeks: Skin can feel smoother and look a little brighter.

  • 4–6 weeks: A more even skin tone, reduction in dullness, and less congestion are noticeable.

Pro tip: Start slow (alternate days) and build up to daily use as tolerated.

 

Vitamin A (Retinol) – Anti-Ageing Powerhouse

Found in: Ultraceuticals Ultra A Skin Perfecting Range

Vitamin A (in the form of Retinol or Retinaldehyde) boosts collagen production, refines skin texture, and reduces signs of premature ageing. Ultraceuticals offers this in a step-up system, so your skin can gradually adapt.

How long until you see results?

  • 4 weeks: Skin texture starts to feel smoother and fine lines may soften slightly.

  • 8–12 weeks: Noticeable improvement in skin firmness, wrinkles, and pigmentation.

Important: Always use Vitamin A at night, and wear SPF during the day as it increases sun sensitivity.

 

Vitamin C – Brightening & Antioxidant Protection

Found in: Ultraceuticals Ultra C Firming Serum & Ultra C23+ Firming Concentrate

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that supports collagen production and brightens uneven skin tone. Ultraceuticals stabilises their Vitamin C to ensure efficacy and minimise irritation.

How long until you see results?

  • 6 weeks: Reduction in pigmentation and improved skin firmness and tone.

Tip: Use in the morning before SPF to help fight free radical damage during the day.

 

Patience + Consistency = Results

Great skin doesn’t happen overnight. While some serums show immediate effects (hello, hyaluronic acid), others take a full skin cycle (about 28 days) or longer to reveal their magic. Trust the process and stick to your skincare routine consistently.

And of course, always pair your serums with daily broad-spectrum SPF – especially when using AHAs or Vitamin A.

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