HOW MUCH PRODUCT SHOULD I BE USING?
There’s a bit of a balance when it comes to your homecare products: using enough products so it works efficiently versus using too much and “wasting it.”
Here’s how to layer your skincare and how much to use.
— Cleansers: Cleansing your skin should be the first step of your routine- ideally you’d do this once in the morning and twice at night to really make sure you’re not taking the day’s grime into bed with you. A dime to nickel sized amount of cleanser is plenty for your face and neck. For foaming cleansers, one pump is enough. If you like more suds in your cleanser, try adding more water instead of product.
—Toners: Toners can help to restore the skin’s pH after cleansing. Too much toner just sits on your skin instead of absorbing, and too little toner won’t benefit the skin. A couple drops on a cotton round or your hands is all you need!
—Serums: Serums contain mega-concentrated ingredients, so more product does not mean better! In fact, too much of those concentrated ingredients could cause irritation, so follow the brand’s usage instructions. Generally, a pea-sized amount is enough.
— Eye Creams: The skin around the eyes is thinner, more delicate, and requires it’s own products. Milia can occur around the eye if a product is too rich for the undereye or if a product is applied too frequently. A pea sized amount of eye cream tapped on and around the orbital bone on both eyes should be plenty.
—Moisturizers: All skin types need moisturizers because all skin needs hydration. But too much moisturizer cannot absorb property, which can clog pores if a thick layer just sits on the surface. A quarter sized amount is a good place to start- drier skin types can add a tiny bit more when necessary.
—Sunscreen: The SPF number only provides your skin protection when you apply an adequate amount- about a tablespoon for your face and neck! try applying several thin coats to reach the desired SPF that is marketed on the label, because one thin layer of sunscreen is not protecting you the way it should. It is equally important to reapply every 2 hours - I recommend an SPF spray or powder for reapplication over makeup.
So how are you doing — are you applying the correct amount of product? Using the proper amount allows the skin to absorb ingredients better, and is less wasteful and friendlier to your wallet. Start letting your skincare work smarter not harder!
— Xoxo Vai
