The right way to apply moisturizer is to first choose a moisturizer that is right for your skin type and has the ingredients your skin needs, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin or ceramides to boost hydration and prevent moisture loss.
Here is the right way to apply moisturizer:
Step | Instructions |
1 | Start by washing your face and patting it dry with a clean towel. |
2 | Take small amounts of the moisturizer and apply it to your face using your fingertips in a circular motion. |
3 | Apply it first to your forehead, then your nose and cheeks, and lastly on your chin, neck, and décolletage. |
4 | Avoid applying it around your eyes as the skin is thinner and more sensitive. |
5 | Let it sit for a minute to fully absorb into your skin before applying makeup or sunscreen. |
Pro tip: For an extra boost of hydration, apply a facial oil before your moisturizer or mix a few drops of facial oil into your moisturizer for added benefits.
How to Apply Moisturizer
When it comes to skin care, choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type is essential. Finding the product that best suits your specific needs can help you achieve healthier and more hydrated skin.
It is also vital to know how to apply moisturizer the right way in order to maximize its effectiveness. In this article, we will explore the key steps in choosing the best moisturizer and how to correctly apply it.
Understanding your skin type
Before choosing the right moisturizer, it’s crucial to understand your skin type to ensure maximum effectiveness. Here are the four main skin types and their characteristics:
Skin Type | Characteristics |
Oily | Oily skin appears shiny and greasy, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Choose a moisturizer that is labeled noncomedogenic, non-acnegenic, and oil-free. Avoid heavy creams or oil-based formulas to prevent clogging your pores. |
Dry | Dry skin feels tight, rough, and flaky. Choose a moisturizer labeled “hydrating” or “emollient.” Look for ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that attract and retain moisture in the skin. |
Combination | Combination skin has a mix of oily and dry areas, with the T-zone being the oiliest. Choose a lightweight or oil-free moisturizer for the T-zone and a more hydrating one for the dry areas. |
Normal | Normal skin has a balanced moisture level and a smooth, even texture. Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin’s needs. A lightweight, non-greasy formula should work well. |
Bonus tip: Always apply moisturizer to clean, damp skin. This will help lock in moisture and improve absorption.
Ingredients to look for in a moisturizer based on skin type
Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type can be tough, but understanding which ingredients to look for in a moisturizer can make it easier to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Here are some ingredients to look for based on your skin type-
Skin Type | Ingredients to Look For |
Dry Skin | Hyaluronic Acid or Glycerin |
Oily Skin | Lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide |
Combination Skin | Non-comedogenic moisturizer with Aloe Vera or Chamomile |
Sensitive Skin | Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer with Ceramides or Colloidal Oatmeal |
To apply moisturizer properly, cleanse your skin and pat it dry before applying a dime-sized amount of moisturizer all over your face, neck, and chest. Pro tip- Always apply moisturizer to damp skin for better absorption.
Ingredients to avoid in a moisturizer
When it comes to selecting a moisturizer, it’s essential to know the ingredients to avoid that can be harmful to your skin. These ingredients can cause inflammation, clog pores, and trigger allergies.
Here are some ingredients to avoid:
Ingredient | Effects |
Parabens | These synthetic preservatives mimic estrogen and can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. |
Phthalates | These chemicals are used to make fragrances and can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system. |
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) | This chemical helps create foaming agents but can strip away the skin’s natural oils, causing irritation and dryness. |
Mineral oil | This inexpensive ingredient can clog pores and cause breakouts. |
Instead, opt for moisturizers with natural ingredients, such as aloe vera, shea butter, jojoba oil, and hyaluronic acid, which can hydrate and nourish the skin without causing damage.
Pro-tip: Always read the labels before buying any skincare product and do your research on the ingredients to avoid.
Preparing your Skin for Moisturizer Application
Before applying moisturizer to your skin, preparation is key. Ensuring that your skin is properly cleansed and exfoliated beforehand will help maximize the moisturizer’s effectiveness. Cleaning your skin will remove impurities, while exfoliating will remove any dead skin cells that may be blocking the moisturizer from soaking in. Knowing the right way to prepare your skin for moisturizer application is essential for keeping skin looking and feeling its best.
Cleansing your face
Cleansing your face is a crucial step that prepares your skin for moisturizer application by removing dirt, oil, and impurities from the surface of your skin.
Here are some tips to follow when cleansing your face:
Use lukewarm water to wet your face and apply a small amount of cleanser on your fingertips. |
Massage the cleanser gently onto your face in circular motions for 30 seconds to 1 minute, paying special attention to areas with excess oil, such as the forehead, nose, and chin. |
Rinse your face with cool water and pat dry with a clean towel. |
The right way to apply moisturizer is to use a small amount and gently massage it onto your face and neck in an upward motion. |
Pro tip: Make sure to choose a gentle and pH-balanced cleanser that suits your skin type and apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration.
Applying toner
Toner is an important step in any skincare routine as it helps to prepare your skin for moisturizer application by removing impurities and balancing your skin’s pH levels.
Here’s how to apply toner effectively:
Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. |
Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad or ball. |
Gently wipe the cotton pad or ball all over your face and neck, avoiding your eye area. |
Do not rinse off the toner. |
Wait for a few seconds for the toner to absorb into your skin before applying moisturizer. |
Remember to use a toner that is suitable for your skin type, and avoid ones that contain alcohol as it can dry out your skin. |
Applying serum (if using)
Using serum in your daily skincare routine is an excellent way to boost hydration and target specific skin concerns. Here are the steps to follow when applying serum before moisturizer:
Start with a clean and toned face. |
Apply a pea-sized amount of serum to your fingertips. |
Gently massage the serum onto your face, avoiding the eye area. |
Wait for a few minutes for the serum to absorb into your skin. |
Follow up with your daily moisturizer, applying it in a gentle, upward motion to avoid tugging on your skin. |
By applying the serum first, you allow the active ingredients to penetrate deep into your skin, preparing it for maximum moisturization. Remember to choose a serum that works well with your skin type and addresses your specific skin needs.
The Correct Way to Apply Moisturizer
Applying moisturizer is an important aspect of any skincare routine, but it can be tricky to get the most out of it if you’re not doing it the right way. In this article, we’ll take a look at the correct way to apply moisturizer so you can make the most of this valuable skincare product.
We’ll go over the correct steps for first-time users, as well as those who are already experienced with the moisturizing process.
How much moisturizer to use
The correct amount of moisturizer to use depends on your skin type and the product you are using. As a general rule, you should aim to use a pea-sized amount for your face and neck, and about a quarter-sized amount for your body.
Here are some tips to help you apply your moisturizer correctly:
Start with clean and dry skin. |
Warm up the moisturizer between your hands before applying it to your face. |
Use gentle upwards strokes to apply the moisturizer to your face and neck, spreading it evenly. |
Use long, sweeping motions to apply moisturizer to your body, focusing on dry areas like elbows and knees. |
Avoid applying moisturizer to your eyes and lips unless the product is specifically designed for those areas. |
Reapply moisturizer as needed throughout the day, especially if your skin feels dry or tight. |
Pro tip: When in doubt, start with less moisturizer than you think you need and slowly increase the amount if necessary. |
How to distribute and apply moisturizer evenly
The key to healthy and glowing skin is to apply moisturizer evenly. Here’s how to distribute and apply your moisturizer effectively:
Start by washing and drying your face with a gentle cleanser. |
Use pea-size or dime-size amounts of moisturizer on your forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. |
Distribute the moisturizer evenly over your entire face using gentle circular motions. |
Do not forget to apply moisturizer on your neck and chest, especially if they are also exposed to the sun. |
Allow the moisturizer to absorb into the skin for a few minutes before applying makeup or going to bed. |
Pro tip: Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and contains SPF to protect your skin from sun damage. Use your fingers or a brush for application to help the moisturizer penetrate deeper into the skin.
Should you apply moisturizer on your neck and décolletage?
Yes, it is important to apply moisturizer on your neck and décolletage to keep your skin hydrated and prevent signs of aging.
Here are some tips on how to apply moisturizer correctly:
Start with a clean and dry neck and décolletage. |
Take a pea-sized amount of moisturizer and apply it in upward strokes, starting from your chest bone towards your chin. |
Use gentle, circular motions to blend the moisturizer into your skin. |
Don’t forget to apply moisturizer behind your ears and on the back of your neck. |
Wait a few minutes for the moisturizer to absorb before applying other skincare products or makeup. |
Tips and Tricks for Maximum Moisturizing Benefits
Applying moisturizer correctly can help to lock in hydration and nourish your skin. When done correctly, you can also help keep your skin barrier healthy and look and feel great. To ensure you get the best results, here are some tips and tricks for applying moisturizer the right way:
Step | Instructions |
1 | Cleanse your skin. |
2 | Wait until your skin is still damp. |
3 | Apply moisturizer in small dots across your face. |
4 | Gently massage moisturizer in an upward and outward motion. |
Applying moisturizer after showering or washing your face
Applying moisturizer after showering or washing your face is essential to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness and irritation. However, there are certain tips and tricks to follow to maximize the moisturizing benefits and get the most out of your skincare routine.
Here are some tips:
1. Apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp to lock in hydration. |
2. Use a moisturizer that’s suitable for your skin type. |
3. Use a small amount of moisturizer and spread it evenly over your face or body. |
4. Gently massage the moisturizer into your skin using upward motions. |
5. Allow the moisturizer to absorb fully before applying makeup or sunscreen. |
By following these tips, you can ensure that your skin stays moisturized and healthy, and you get the maximum benefits out of your skincare products.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to apply moisturizer to your neck and chest, which are often neglected areas and prone to dryness and wrinkles.
Layering moisturizer with other skincare products
The key to maximizing the benefits of your moisturizer is to layer it properly with other skincare products.
Firstly, start by cleansing your face with a gentle facial cleanser, patting it dry with a soft towel.
Secondly, apply a toner that suits your skin type and wait for it to dry completely.
Thirdly, apply a serum that targets specific skin concerns with ingredients like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, or Retinol, and wait for it to dry completely.
Finally, take a pea-sized amount of moisturizer and apply it all over your face and neck, using gentle circular motions until the moisturizer is fully absorbed.
Be cautious not to over-apply the moisturizer, creating a thick layer that can clog the pores, leading to potential breakouts.
Using moisturizer as a primer for makeup.
Using moisturizer as a primer for makeup creates a smooth canvas for your foundation to stick to, and also provides extra hydration to your skin.
Here’s how to use your moisturizer as a primer:
Step | Description |
1 | Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and texture. |
2 | Apply a small amount of moisturizer to your face after cleansing and toning. |
3 | Let it sit for a few seconds to absorb into your skin. |
4 | Apply your foundation or tinted moisturizer immediately after the moisturizer, without waiting for it to dry completely. |
5 | This technique helps the foundation to stick to your skin better and last longer. |
Pro tip: You can also mix a small amount of foundation with your moisturizer for a sheer coverage and an even lighter feel.