When it comes to skincare, the order in which you apply your products can make a significant difference in their effectiveness. Moisturizers play a crucial role in hydrating and protecting your skin, but are you applying them correctly? Let's dive into the best practices for incorporating moisturizers into your skincare routine.
“Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!” If you have even a passing interest in skincare, you probably already know this skincare commandment. But what you might not know is that there are dos, don'ts and special tips to transform your moisturizer from a one-trick pony to a revolutionary part of your routine. Below, you’ll find some tips from our estheticians that could dramatically alter your relationship with your moisturizer.
When should you apply moisturizer?
Moisturizer should typically be applied after cleansing and toning your skin. This allows the moisturizer to lock in moisture and create a protective barrier on the skin. Applying moisturizer to damp skin can also help to seal in hydration more effectively.
Dab it on before massaging in
Most people tend to rub moisturizer in the palms of their hands before applying, meaning that much of your precious product is absorbing into your hands. Instead, pump a little to the back of your hand, then take your ring finger and dab it all over your face before gently massaging it in.
What is the correct technique for applying moisturizer?
When applying moisturizer, it's important to use gentle, upward motions to avoid pulling or tugging on the skin. Start by applying the moisturizer to the center of your face and then work your way outwards. Don't forget to also apply moisturizer to your neck and décolletage to keep the skin in these areas hydrated.
Don’t rely on only a face oil
Though botanical oils can lock in moisture, they don’t contain humectants, meaning they can’t add hydration back to your skin. For dehydrated skin, look for a moisturizer with natural humectants like hyaluronic acid, silver tremella extract, and honey that will draw water into your skin. Your moisturizer should also have natural emollients like botanical oils that lock in moisture. If you’re using a face oil, use it after your moisturizer, since the hydrating ingredients in your moisturizer won’t absorb properly after an oil.
Don’t over-apply
If the directions on your moisturizer say to use one to two pumps, applying three or four doesn’t mean your skin is getting twice the benefits. Can you over -moisturize your face? The answer is yes. Over-applying moisturizer only results in two things: wasted product and a shiny t-zone. If you use too much, the product won’t be able to properly absorb into your skin, and everything you apply afterwards, like sunscreen and/or makeup, won’t go on as it should.
Why is the order of products important?
The order in which you apply your skincare products can impact how well they penetrate the skin and deliver their intended benefits. By following the correct order, you can ensure that each product is able to work effectively without interference from other products.
Skincare order matters
For layering moisture, our estheticians recommend layering lightest to richest in order to lock in hydration for plumper, more firm-looking complexion. For layering our products, we recommend starting with a toner, either the Perfect Skin Toner (if you’re concerned with uneven skin tone and blemishes) or Magic Mushroom Barrier Defense Elixir (if you’re concerned with visible signs of aging), followed by our Magic Mushroom the Beauty Potion (which tackles visible signs of aging, seals in hydration, and helps deliver an immediate glow), and finishing with our Matcha Rose Serum+ Cream (which uses Matcha Tea, Rose of Jericho and Sea 3 Complex to lock moisture while softening and protecting skin from environmental damage).
For products in general you should order as follows:
1. Toner
2. Serum
3. Face Oil
4. Cream/Moisturizer
5. An SPF!
Tips to moisturize your face like an expert:
1. Apply on damp skin
2. Dab it on before massaging in
3. Don’t over-apply
4. Don’t rely on only a face oil
5. Don’t forget about your neck
6. Mix face cream with aloe for post-sun care
7. Skincare order matters
Use the Best Moisturizing Products for Your Skin
I'm sure you already knew you had to moisturize your skin, but we hope you now realize its HOW you moisturize that makes your skincare most effective. How you apply moisturizer and the steps you take in feeding your face are crucial to getting that youthful glow you are looking for!
FAQs
Q: Do you wash off face moisturizer?
A: No ! You leave it on all day/night between washes and under makeup.
Q: How often should you moisturize your face?
A: Morning & Night!
Q: Can I use body lotion for my face?
A: There are some body lotions like our Matcha Rose Serum+ Cream that are meant to be used from head to toe, but you should always make sure you are comfortable with the ingredients and quality of what's hitting your face. Your face is one of the first body parts to age, so make sure you are using something delicate and nourishing enough for you!
Q: Should I still moisturize if I have oily skin?
A: Yes, but if you are breakout prone you can avoid your T-zone. Always use the recommended amount, remember don't over moisturize, and leave out an oil, opting for a lightweight cream!
Q: How long does it take for moisturizer to absorb?
A: It should penetrate almost immediately, within minutes if its the right fit for you!
Q: What does over-moisturized skin look like?
A: Very oily like it needs to be dabbed or blotted.